Bucknell University, located in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, is a top-ranked liberal arts institution known for its strong faculty-student relationships, small class sizes, and vibrant campus community. It offers diverse programs across business, engineering, sciences, and humanities, emphasizing leadership, applied learning, and global excellence. Open to students nationwide and internationally, Bucknell fosters intellectual growth, leadership, and community involvement. Below, we outline key admissions factors, including SAT exam scores, GPA expectations, application process, and acceptance rate, to help you craft a competitive application.

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Did You Know Facts About Bucknell University?

📚 Founded in 1846, Bucknell University is one of the nation's oldest and most prestigious liberal arts institutions.

👩‍🏫 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring small class sizes and personalized learning.

🏛️ Nearly 50% of students participate in Greek life, fostering leadership and social connections.

🏆 27 NCAA Division I teams, excelling in rowing, basketball, and wrestling.

✈️ Over 45% of students study abroad, exploring 60+ countries for global learning experiences.

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Bucknell University Admissions Requirements

Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, is a highly selective liberal arts college with a holistic review process. It is test-optional, though reported SAT scores usually fall between 1340-1500 and ACT scores between 31-34. Applicants typically possess a 3.62 GPA with rigorous coursework. Materials required are a transcript, personal statement, and optional recommendations. Applications are submitted through the Common App or Coalition App on the following deadlines: November 15 (Early Decision I) and January 15 (Early Decision II & Regular). A $50 fee, with waivers offered, is required. Powerful applications place emphasis on academic achievement, leadership, and personal enthusiasm.

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Bucknell University has become test-optional, and SAT scores are not required as part of an admission application; applicants may submit standardized test scores if doing so will enhance an application. For students who choose to provide SAT scores, a middle 50% range can be used as a form of comparison for admitted students:

Average SAT Scores for Admitted Students

The middle 50% SAT score range is the scores of the middle half of admitted students. The average SAT scores range around 1420. If your scores fall within this range or above, it may be an improvement on your application.

Bucknell University SAT Scores Distribution

The following table further disaggregates the SAT scores of admitted students to Bucknell University, including where applicants rank to one another. For Bucknell University admissions you will require a SAT score between 1340 and 1500. 

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Schools That Consider SAT Scores at Bucknell University

Even though Bucknell does not require SAT scores, a competitive range can provide an extra advantage in the Bucknell University admissions process.

• College of Arts & Sciences
• College of Engineering 
• Freeman College of Management 
• Honors and Scholars Programs 
• Athletic Recruitment

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Bucknell University ACT Scores Requirements 

Bucknell University follows a test-optional policy where students may elect not to present ACT scores. That being said, for students who do send in ACT scores, the range is between 31 and 34 (middle 50%). An impressive ACT score will have an impact, particularly on a student who had a somewhat low GPA for Bucknell University admissions.

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Bucknell University ACT Scores Distribution 

While ACT exam scores are not required, a strong score can help demonstrate academic readiness, especially for students applying to competitive programs. Here’s a breakdown of ACT scores for admitted students at Bucknell University:

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Do Bucknell University Superscores SAT Scores & ACT Exam Scores?

Yes, Bucknell University does superscore the SAT and ACT, wonderful news if you have taken the test on several occasions. Superscoring is when, rather than considering a single test date, Bucknell considers your highest section scores from various test attempts and uses these to create your best possible composite score.

Example: How Superscoring Works

Suppose you had taken the SAT twice:

• First Attempt: Math: 670, Reading & Writing: 740 → Total: 1340
• Second Attempt: Math: 760, Reading & Writing: 670 → Total: 1500

Rather than using your best total score (1400 from the second attempt), Bucknell will use the best section scores from both tests:

• Math: 720 (from the second attempt)
• Reading & Writing: 700 (from the first attempt)
• Superscored Total: 1420

Therefore, although your single-test best score was 1400, Bucknell will consider your application with the superscored 1420, enhancing your chances of admission.

Similarly, with the ACT, they take your top section scores over several test dates and recalculate your composite. If you have taken the SAT or ACT twice or more, and are thinking of applying to Bucknell, it may pay to submit all your scores, as they'll combine and interchange to earn you the highest grade.

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Academic record is very important for a student at Bucknell University, specifically a GPA of 3.62. The admissions process also heavily emphasizes the rigor of the coursework of the applicant, especially in Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and Honors classes. Bucknell seeks to admit students who were successful academically, demonstrated leadership abilities, and served their communities.

Average GPA for Admitted Students to Bucknell University

Most students admitted to Bucknell have a GPA of around 3.62. That usually indicates sustained academic excellence throughout the high school years. But Bucknell's holistic review process means that even students with slightly lower GPAs can be competitive if they show other strengths - perhaps leadership, service, or special talents.

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Bucknell University Acceptance Rate

Bucknell University is moderately selective with an acceptance rate of around 28.9%. With admitting almost 3,291 students out of 11,377 applicants. Admissions are competitive and academic excellence, extracurricular activities, and a strong application can help improve your prospects of being accepted.

Bucknell University Scholarships 

Bucknell provides a range of merit-based and need-based scholarships to support students in financing their education. Applicants are urged to apply early and seek out external scholarship sources for further funding. Some of the notable scholarships include:

• Presidential Fellowships: Pays full or partial tuition for high-achieving students.
• Dean's Scholarships: Awarded on the basis of academic merit and leadership potential.
• Arts Merit Scholarships: For students who are outstanding in music, theater, or visual arts.
• Need-Based Financial Aid: Based on FAFSA and CSS Profile submissions.

Bucknell is competitive, but Bucknell considers candidates holistically. Academic achievement is significant, but Bucknell wants leadership, community service, and personal development in its candidates. There are requirements for SAT scores and a perfect GPA. Significant extracurricular activities, a strong writing of a personal statement, and good GPA and SAT score will make the application stand out.

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