Thinking about applying to Texas Christian University (TCU)? With a 43% acceptance rate, getting in isn’t a walk in the park, but it’s definitely doable if you have a solid academic record and a well-rounded application. TCU is more than just a great school—it’s a tight-knit community with exciting student life and strong academics. If you want a college that values leadership, involvement, and academic excellence, TCU could be the perfect fit for you!
The university follows a holistic admissions approach, considering factors such as SAT Exam and ACT scores, GPA, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and personal achievements. While TCU is test-optional, students who submit strong SAT scores (1160–1370) or ACT Exam scores (26–31) may improve their chances. Strong GPAs ranging from 3.5 to 4.0, on average with an average of 3.7, are highly influential on acceptance.
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⭐ TCU’s mascot is the Horned Frog! 🐸 This unique reptile has been representing the university since 1897.
⭐ The football team has won multiple championships! 🏈 TCU’s Horned Frogs are known for their impressive performances in college football, including national championships.
⭐ Famous alumni include NFL stars and business leaders! 🎓 Notable graduates include LaDainian Tomlinson, Andy Dalton, and billionaire investor John Goff.
⭐ A gorgeous campus in Fort Worth! 🌇 TCU’s 295-acre campus blends modern facilities with classic architecture, creating an inspiring learning environment.
⭐ TCU is known for its small class sizes! 📚 With a student-faculty ratio of 13:1, students get personalized attention and support.
🚀 Check Admission Requirements of Top US Universities Accepting SAT & ACT!
Element |
Details |
College Name |
Texas Christian University |
College Location |
Fort Worth, Texas |
University Short Form |
TCU |
Acceptance Rate |
43% |
Early Decision Due |
November 1 |
Regular Application Due |
February 1 |
FAFSA Deadline |
May 1 |
SAT Scores |
1160–1370* |
ACT Scores |
26–31* |
🚀 Also, Get to Know How to Send SAT Scores to Colleges?
TCU is on the lookout for students who go beyond the classroom—they want future leaders, changemakers, and go-getters. While SAT and ACT scores are optional, a strong score can give your application a boost. More than just grades, TCU values students who step up in their communities, take on leadership roles, and make a real impact. If you’re active in clubs, sports, or volunteer work, you’ll fit right in!
Requirement |
Details |
Application Platforms |
Common Application, TCU Application |
SAT Score (Middle 50%) |
1160–1370* |
ACT Score (Middle 50%) |
26–31* |
GPA Requirement |
3.5–4.0 (Average: 3.7) |
Application Requirements |
1–2 Letters of Recommendation, Personal Statement/Essay, Extracurricular Activities |
Application Fee |
$50 |
If you have a strong GPA, solid SAT or ACT scores, and meaningful extracurriculars, you'll have a great shot at getting into Texas Christian University. But TCU isn't just about numbers—it values students who demonstrate leadership, community involvement, and passion for learning.
While TCU follows a test-optional policy, submitting a competitive SAT score can boost an applicant’s chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1160 and 1370 on the SAT. Scoring closer to 1370 can increase the likelihood of admission, especially for competitive programs.
If you're wondering about the average SAT score needed for Texas Christian University (TCU), here’s what you need to know! While TCU is test-optional, submitting a strong SAT score can help boost your application. Most admitted students score between 1160 and 1370, with an average SAT score of 1270. Scoring closer to the 75th percentile (1370) can make your application more competitive, especially for highly sought-after programs. Check out the breakdown below:
Section |
Average |
25th Percentile |
75th Percentile |
Math |
640 |
580 |
700 |
Reading + Writing |
630 |
580 |
670 |
Composite |
1270 |
1160 |
1370 |
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When it comes to Texas Christian University, the SAT score range for most admitted students falls between 1160 and 1370. Scoring closer to the higher end improves your chances, especially for competitive programs. A strong SAT score can make your application stand out!
Percentile |
SAT Score |
25th |
1160 |
50th (Median) |
1270 |
75th |
1370 |
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While Texas Christian University (TCU) is test-optional, some of its colleges and programs may still take SAT scores into account during the admissions process. If you're applying to competitive programs like business, science, or engineering, submitting good SAT scores can give you an edge.
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Students applying with ACT scores should aim for a score within the range of 26–31. TCU considers the highest section scores across multiple test attempts, allowing students to submit their best possible composite score.
Wondering what a good ACT score is for Texas Christian University? Most admitted students score between 26 and 31, with a median score of 29. While TCU is test-optional, a strong ACT score can boost your chances—especially for competitive programs.
Percentile |
ACT Score Range |
25th Percentile |
26 |
50th Percentile (Median) |
29 |
75th Percentile |
31 |
📌 How Long is the ACT? Check Here!
Good news for test-takers! Texas Christian University superscores both the SAT and ACT, meaning they take your highest section scores across multiple test dates to create your best possible composite score. This gives you a chance to improve your application by focusing on individual sections in different attempts.
🚀Get a List of All Colleges That Superscore the SAT.
A strong GPA is an essential part of the TCU admissions process. Most admitted students have a GPA between 3.5 and 4.0, with an average GPA of 3.7. While there is no strict minimum, a higher GPA significantly improves an applicant’s chances, especially when combined with strong extracurriculars and essays.
Your GPA plays a big role in college admissions, and Texas Christian University average GPA trends on the higher side. Most students admitted to TCU have a GPA between 3.5 and 4.0, with an average of 3.7, making strong academics essential.
Percentile |
GPA Range |
25th Percentile |
3.5 |
50th Percentile (Median) |
3.7 |
75th Percentile |
4.0+ |
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TCU has an acceptance rate of 43%, making it moderately selective. While nearly half of applicants are admitted, students need competitive academic records and strong extracurricular involvement to secure a spot.
Acceptance Rate |
Total Applicants |
Admitted |
Enrolled |
43% (Moderately Selective) |
20,517 |
8,740 |
2,488 |
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TCU offers a variety of merit-based and need-based scholarships to support students financially. Many scholarships are awarded automatically based on academic performance, while others require a separate application.
📌 Learn Which are the 500+ Most Asked SAT Vocabulary Words.
Texas Christian University is a great option for students who are high-achievers, show leadership, and are actively involved in extracurriculars. With a 43% acceptance rate, GPA of 3.7+, and SAT of 1160–1370 or ACT of 26–31, applicants have a solid chance of getting in. TCU values well-rounded students and provides great opportunities through scholarships, small class sizes, and a vibrant campus life. Whether you’re into academics, sports, or leadership, TCU is a great place to grow and succeed!
Many prestigious colleges and universities in the U.S. require SAT scores as part of their admissions process. Below is a list of some of the top colleges and universities that use SAT scores for their admissions.
Category |
Colleges/Universities |
Ivy League Schools |
|
Public Research Universities |
University of California System (some campuses) |
National Universities |
|
Liberal Arts Colleges |
|
College Name |
ACT Score |
SAT Score |
15–19* |
820–980* |
|
16–21* |
890–1080* |
|
17–20* |
860–1053* |
|
15–21* |
Not available* |
|
16–20* |
860–1062* |
University |
ACT Score |
SAT Score |
21–27* |
940–1200* |
|
16–25* |
910–1150* |
|
18–26* |
910–1150* |
|
18–24* |
910–1120* |
|
19–26* |
950–1150* |
|
21–28* |
950–1180* |
|
16–27* |
925–1140* |
|
17–24* |
930–1175* |
|
19–25* |
950–1130* |
|
20–27* |
900–1150* |
|
20–26* |
1010–1200* |
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