Abilene Christian University Admissions Requirements

Abilene Christian University (ACU), located in Abilene, Texas, is a private institution dedicated to providing students with a transformative education rooted in Christian values. The university seeks students who are not only academically prepared but also eager to grow spiritually and contribute positively to the ACU community. ACU’s admissions process is designed to evaluate a student’s holistic profile, taking into account academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and personal character.

General Admissions Criteria

ACU applies a holistic approach when reviewing undergraduate applications, meaning that the admissions committee evaluates multiple aspects of a student’s background to assess their readiness for the academic rigors and community engagement expected at the university. The following criteria form the foundation of ACU’s admissions requirements for all undergraduate applicants.

High School Diploma or Equivalent

Prospective students must have earned a high school diploma or its equivalent, such as a GED, before enrolling in ACU.

• Recommended High School Curriculum: While a high school diploma is required, ACU also recommends that students complete a rigorous high school curriculum to best prepare for college-level work. The recommended coursework includes:
  • 4 years of English
  • 3 years of mathematics (including Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry)
  • 3 years of science (with at least one laboratory science)
  • 2 years of social studies (including U.S. History)
  • 2 years of a foreign language

Standardized Test Scores

• ACT/SAT: Students applying to ACU are encouraged to submit either ACT or SAT scores, although the university does not enforce strict minimum score requirements. However, preferred scores are as follows:
  • SAT: A combined score of 1070 or higher (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing + Math)
  • ACT: A composite score of 21 or higher
• Test-Optional Policy: In response to the changing landscape of college admissions, ACU has implemented a test-optional policy. Students who feel that their test scores do not accurately reflect their academic abilities may opt out of submitting ACT/SAT scores. However, test-optional applicants may be required to submit additional materials, such as essays and letters of recommendation, to supplement their application.

GPA Requirements

Although ACU does not have a strict minimum GPA for admissions, the university places significant emphasis on academic performance in high school. The university prefers applicants to have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. A strong GPA in core subjects such as English, math, science, and social studies is particularly important.

Class Rank

ACU considers class rank, if available, as part of the admissions process. Students who graduate in the top 25% of their high school class are considered strong candidates for admission.

Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation are not required for all applicants but are strongly encouraged, especially for those who apply under the test-optional policy or whose GPA is lower than the preferred range. Recommenders should be individuals who can speak to the applicant’s academic abilities, character, and potential for success at ACU. Ideally, recommendations should come from:

• Teachers
• High school counselors
• Coaches or community leaders

Personal Essay

The personal essay is a required component of the ACU application. This essay provides applicants the opportunity to share their unique story, discuss their academic and personal experiences, and explain why they are interested in attending ACU. Topics students might choose to write about include:

• Their academic journey and challenges overcome
• How their faith has shaped their worldview and decisions
• Their future academic and career goals
• Why they believe ACU is the right university for them

This essay is especially important for test-optional applicants, as it gives the admissions committee a better understanding of the student’s potential beyond standardized test scores.

Admissions Requirements for Transfer Students

ACU welcomes transfer students and offers a streamlined admissions process for those who have completed coursework at other institutions. Transfer students must meet different admissions requirements based on the number of college credits they have earned prior to applying to ACU.

Minimum GPA for Transfer Applicants

• 12–29 College Credits: Applicants who have completed fewer than 30 credit hours at a previous institution must submit both high school and college transcripts. A minimum college GPA of 2.5 is required.
• 30+ College Credits: Applicants with 30 or more credit hours are evaluated solely on their college transcripts. A minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale is required for admission.

Transcripts

• High School Transcripts: Required for transfer applicants with fewer than 30 completed credit hours.
• College Transcripts: All transfer applicants must submit official transcripts from each post-secondary institution they have attended.

Standardized Test Scores

Applicants transferring with fewer than 30 credit hours must submit ACT or SAT scores unless they are applying under the test-optional policy.

Transfer Credit Evaluation

Transfer applicants are eligible to transfer credits earned from accredited institutions, provided they have achieved a grade of C or higher in those courses. However, the exact number of credits that can be applied toward an ACU degree depends on the specific major and program of study.

International Student Admissions Requirements

International students must meet specific requirements to ensure they are prepared for academic success at ACU. These requirements are in addition to the general admissions criteria.

English Language Proficiency

International students from non-English speaking countries must demonstrate English proficiency by submitting one of the following:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A minimum score of 550 on the paper-based test, 213 on the computer-based test, or 79 on the Internet-based test.
• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum score of 6.5.
• Duolingo English Test: A minimum score of 105.
• ACT/SAT: Adequate scores on the reading and writing sections of the SAT or ACT can also fulfill the English proficiency requirement.

Academic Transcripts

International students must submit official transcripts from their secondary school or post-secondary institutions, demonstrating the equivalency of a U.S. high school diploma or higher education coursework. If transcripts are not in English, they must be translated and evaluated by an accredited credential evaluation service, such as World Education Services (WES).

Visa and Financial Requirements

In order to obtain a student visa (F-1), international students must submit proof of financial support to cover the cost of tuition, fees, and living expenses for at least one academic year. Additionally, students must provide:

• Financial Statements: Official documentation proving that the student or their sponsor has the necessary funds.
• International Student Fee: A non-refundable fee may be required during the application process for international students.

Program-Specific Admissions Requirements

Certain academic programs at ACU have additional requirements beyond the general university admissions standards. Applicants interested in these programs must meet specific criteria and may be required to submit supplemental materials.

Nursing Program

The Nursing program at ACU is highly competitive and has additional admissions criteria to ensure that students are prepared for the challenges of a nursing education. Applicants to the School of Nursing must meet the following requirements:

• High school GPA of at least 3.5
• SAT score of at least 1130 or ACT score of 24
• Completion of prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and mathematics
• Submission of a personal essay or participation in an interview to assess the applicant’s motivation and commitment to the nursing profession

Business Program

The College of Business Administration (COBA) seeks students with strong academic records and leadership potential. Applicants to the business program should meet the following requirements:

• A high school GPA of at least 3.3
• Demonstrated proficiency in math, either through high school coursework or standardized test scores
• Participation in business-related extracurricular activities (optional but recommended)

Honors College

The Honors College at ACU offers an enhanced academic experience for high-achieving students. Admission to the Honors College is competitive and requires:

• A high school GPA of 3.8 or higher
• SAT score of at least 1300 or ACT score of 29
• Completion of a supplemental honors application, which may include essays and letters of recommendation
• Participation in an interview with the Honors College admissions committee (optional)

Application Deadlines

ACU has several application deadlines depending on the type of applicant and the desired start date. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible to ensure consideration for scholarships and financial aid.

Freshman Application Deadlines

• Early Action: Applications must be submitted by November 1. Students who apply by this deadline receive priority consideration for scholarships and admissions.
• Regular Decision: Applications are due by February 1 for fall enrollment. Regular decision applicants are still eligible for scholarships, though some may have been awarded during early action.

Transfer Application Deadlines

• Fall Semester: Transfer applications are due by July 1.
• Spring Semester: Applications are due by December 1.

International Student Deadlines

International applicants should apply by the following deadlines to ensure sufficient time for visa processing:

• Fall Semester: Applications are due by June 1.
• Spring Semester: Applications are due by October 1.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

ACU is committed to making a quality Christian education affordable for all students. The university offers a variety of merit-based scholarships, need-based aid, and departmental awards to help offset the cost of tuition.

Merit-Based Scholarships

• Presidential Scholarship: Awarded to students with a GPA of 3.8 or higher and SAT score of 1350 or ACT score of 30.
• Dean’s Scholarship: Awarded to students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher and SAT score of 1250 or ACT score of 27.
• Founders’ Scholarship: Awarded to students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher and competitive SAT/ACT scores.

Need-Based Financial Aid

Students seeking need-based aid should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for federal, state, and institutional grants and loans.

Departmental Scholarships

Many academic departments at ACU offer scholarships to students based on academic merit or financial need. These scholarships may require separate applications and may have specific eligibility criteria related to the chosen field of study.

Contact Information for Admissions

Prospective students are encouraged to reach out to the ACU admissions office for any questions regarding the application process, requirements, or deadlines. The admissions team is available to assist students and families through every step of the process.

• Phone: (325) 674-2000
• Email: admissions@acu.edu
• Mailing Address:
  Abilene Christian University
  Office of Admissions
  ACU Box 29000
  Abilene, TX 79699-9000
• Website: www.acu.edu