Santa Clara University Acceptance Rate 2025: 48% Admission

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Santa Clara University Acceptance Rate 2025

Quick Answer

Santa Clara University has an acceptance rate of 48% for the 2025 admission cycle, making it a selective private institution in California. With an annual tuition of $61,293 and an average net price of $50,062 after financial aid, SCU is a significant investment—one that graduates recoup with a median earnings of $109,183 ten years after entry.

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Acceptance Snapshot

Santa Clara University admitted approximately 48% of applicants in the 2025 admission cycle. With a student body of 6,552 undergraduates, the university maintains a moderately selective admissions process that evaluates academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and personal qualities alongside standardized test scores.

The 48% acceptance rate reflects SCU’s position as a highly regarded Jesuit institution with strong programs in engineering, business, and the sciences. This acceptance rate is notably lower than many regional public universities but slightly higher than peer private institutions on the West Coast, indicating competitive but not ultra-selective admissions.

Data current as of April 2026 from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).

SAT & ACT Scores

Unfortunately, detailed SAT and ACT score ranges (25th–75th percentile data) are not available in the current dataset. Prospective students should consult Santa Clara University’s official admissions website or contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions directly for the most current standardized test score expectations and policies.

Tuition & Costs

Santa Clara University’s tuition is $61,293 annually for all students, regardless of residency status, as it is a private institution. When factoring in room, board, and other expenses, the total cost of attendance is substantial.

However, the average net price—what students actually pay after accounting for grants and financial aid—is $50,062 per year. This represents a meaningful difference and underscores the importance of completing the FAFSA and exploring Santa Clara’s financial aid packages.

Median student debt upon graduation is $19,162, suggesting that many SCU graduates manage their college costs through a combination of grants, scholarships, and modest borrowing.

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Financial Aid Overview

Santa Clara University is committed to meeting demonstrated financial need for admitted students. The average net price of $50,062 indicates that financial aid significantly reduces the sticker price for many families.

Students should note that as a private institution, Santa Clara uses its own financial aid formulas in addition to federal aid calculations. Prospective students are encouraged to use the university’s net price calculator on its website and to submit the FAFSA and CSS Profile to receive a personalized financial aid offer.

Graduation Rates

Santa Clara University has a 6-year completion rate of 88.19%, indicating strong student persistence and academic support systems. This rate exceeds the national average for four-year institutions and reflects SCU’s commitment to student success through mentoring, tutoring, and career development resources.

The high completion rate is particularly notable given the university’s rigorous academic environment, especially in engineering and STEM disciplines.

Post-Graduation Earnings

Graduates of Santa Clara University earn a median of $109,183 ten years after initial entry, according to the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. This figure reflects the earning potential across all majors and demonstrates the strong return on investment for an SCU degree, particularly when considering the average net price and median debt levels.

Earnings vary significantly by major, with engineering and business graduates typically earning above the institution median, while graduates in humanities and social sciences may earn somewhat less—though still competitive with peer institutions.

Santa Clara University offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs. The university is particularly known for its engineering school, which consistently produces graduates in high-demand fields. Business administration, computer science, economics, and mechanical engineering are among the most popular majors by degree production.

The university also maintains strong programs in the sciences, humanities, and social sciences, reflecting its Jesuit liberal arts mission alongside professional preparation.

For specific enrollment numbers by major, prospective students should consult SCU’s institutional research office or the IPEDS Data Feedback Report published by NCES.

Demographics

Santa Clara University’s undergraduate enrollment of 6,552 students represents a diverse community. For detailed demographic breakdowns by race, ethnicity, and gender, prospective students should review the university’s official Common Data Set or institutional fact book, which provide comprehensive enrollment statistics.

The university is committed to building a diverse and inclusive campus community and actively recruits students from underrepresented backgrounds.

FAQ

What is Santa Clara University’s acceptance rate for 2025?

Santa Clara University’s acceptance rate is 48% for the 2025 admission cycle, making it a selective private institution. This means that fewer than half of applicants are admitted, and the university considers multiple factors beyond test scores.

How much does it cost to attend Santa Clara University?

Tuition is $61,293 annually. However, the average net price after financial aid is $50,062, a significant difference. The median student debt is $19,162, indicating that many students graduate with manageable debt levels.

What is the graduation rate at Santa Clara University?

Santa Clara University has a 6-year completion rate of 88.19%, which exceeds the national average and reflects strong academic support and student persistence.

What do Santa Clara graduates earn?

The median earnings for Santa Clara University graduates ten years after entry is $109,183. Earnings vary by major, with engineering and business graduates typically earning above this median.

Is Santa Clara University need-blind in admissions?

For information about Santa Clara’s specific financial aid policies, merit scholarships, and need-blind admissions practices, prospective students should contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions or visit the financial aid website directly.

Does Santa Clara University require standardized test scores?

Santa Clara University’s current test-optional or test-required policy should be verified directly with the admissions office, as policies may change. Check the official website for the most current admissions requirements.

What is the student-to-faculty ratio at Santa Clara University?

For specific student-to-faculty ratio and class size data, consult Santa Clara’s institutional fact book or the IPEDS Data Feedback Report.

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Data Sources

This article reflects data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, accessed April 2026. Figures include acceptance rate, tuition, net price, median debt, median earnings, completion rate, and enrollment size.

Important: College admissions data and financial information change regularly. Students and families should verify all figures directly with Santa Clara University’s official website and contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Office of Financial Aid for the most current information before making enrollment decisions.