Overview
Villanova University is a selective private four-year institution in Villanova, Pennsylvania. The school accepts 23.4% of applicants and enrolls 7,005 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 23.4%
- Average SAT
- 1,439
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,378–1,500
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 33
- Total Enrollment
- 7,005
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Villanova expects you to choose one of four undergraduate colleges during application, and switching between them after admission can be difficult. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences houses most majors, while the School of Business requires a separate application with additional essays focused on leadership and teamwork experiences. Engineering applicants compete in their own pool, and the College of Nursing admits only about 100 students annually.
Your essays should reference Nova Nation culture and the Augustinian values that shape campus life. Mention specific traditions like the Wildcat Walk before basketball games or service programs like the Campus Ministry's spring break mission trips. The admissions committee wants to see how you connect with Villanova's Catholic identity, even if you practice a different faith or none at all.
Don't write generic essays about wanting a "close-knit community" or "strong business school." Instead, research specific professors, clubs, or research opportunities within your intended major. Reference the Villanova Business Exchange program or the engineering school's KEEN initiative for entrepreneurship education. Show you understand what makes these programs different from similar offerings at Georgetown or Boston College.
Your demonstrated interest matters significantly here. Villanova tracks campus visits, information sessions, and email engagement. Apply Early Decision if Villanova is your clear first choice, as the school admits a much higher percentage of ED applicants and uses this round to fill nearly half of each incoming class.
Avoid emphasizing only academic achievements in your application. Villanova places heavy weight on service experience and leadership roles that show personal growth. Your activities should reflect the school's "service and justice" mission through concrete examples of helping others, not just club memberships or honor societies.
The school particularly appreciates applicants who can contribute to campus ministry, club sports, or performance groups like the Blue Key Society. Your supplemental essays should connect your specific interests to existing campus organizations rather than proposing entirely new initiatives.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $44,876/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $64,701
- Students Receiving Aid
- 12%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 92.4%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $100,423/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 95.0%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Villanova University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Villanova is test-optional, meaning you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores. If you choose to submit scores, they will be considered as part of your application.
What is the early decision deadline for Villanova University?
Villanova offers Early Decision I with a November 1 deadline and Early Decision II with a January 15 deadline. Both are binding admission options.
Can you transfer into Villanova University's nursing program?
Transfer admission to Villanova's nursing program is highly competitive and limited. The school prioritizes direct-entry freshmen for nursing due to the structured curriculum and clinical requirements.
Does Villanova University accept the Common Application?
Yes, Villanova accepts the Common Application along with a required school-specific supplement. The supplement includes additional essays and questions specific to Villanova.