Santa Clara University, a respected private university in Silicon Valley, is recognized for its challenging academic programs, entrepreneurship, and dedication to social responsibility. Based in Jesuit values, SCU focuses on values-based leadership, service, and positive social contributions. With close-knit classes, SCU encourages intellectual development and experiential learning in business, engineering, computer science, liberal arts, and the social sciences. Its vibrant, diverse community appeals to students globally, providing an educational experience of transformation. This article addresses Santa Clara University admissions process, GPA requirements, and application process to guide you in developing a competitive application.

Did You Know Facts About Santa Clara University?

Silicon Valley Advantage – Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, SCU offers students unparalleled opportunities for internships and networking with top tech companies.

📜 California’s Oldest Higher Education Institution – Founded in 1851, Santa Clara University is the oldest operating university in California.

🙏 Jesuit Tradition – SCU follows Jesuit values, emphasizing ethics, service, and leadership in education.

💡 Entrepreneurial Spirit – SCU is a hub for innovation, with strong programs in business, engineering, and technology, fostering the next generation of entrepreneurs.

🌱 Sustainability Leader – The university is committed to environmental sustainability, ranking among the top green colleges in the U.S.

Check Admission Requirements of Top US Universities Accepting SAT & ACT!

Santa Clara University Admissions Requirements 

Santa Clara University employs a holistic approach to admissions based on academic success, leadership, and co-curricular engagement. The typical candidate for competition possesses a 3.7 – 4.0 GPA with optional SAT 1340 – 1490 and ACT 30 – 33. It accepts applications via the Common App, which have deadlines on Nov 1 (Early Action/ED I) and Jan 7 (Regular/ED II). Required materials are a personal essay, one recommendation letter, and a solid academic record. FAFSA and the CSS Profile (due March 2) provide financial aid, and merit scholarships are automatically reviewed.

Santa Clara University SAT Scores Requirements

Santa Clara University operates a test-optional policy. That leaves it up to the applicant; they do not have to submit an SAT or ACT score with the application, although they may send in standardized test scores if they believe that in doing so their applications will be enhanced.

Santa Clara University SAT Scores Distribution

The following table further breaks down the SAT scores of admitted students to Santa Clara University by mean, 25th percentile, and 75th percentile to give a clearer sense of how applicants rank against one another. The following is a distribution of SAT score ranges for admitted students to Santa Clara University:

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Santa Clara University Average SAT Scores

Though SCU has gone test-optional until 2025, prospective students are welcome to send in standardized test scores in order to add strength to their application.

Average SAT Scores: The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1360 and 1480 on the SAT.

Santa Clara University Schools That Accept SAT Scores

All Santa Clara University undergraduate programs take SAT scores into consideration during the admissions procedure. The university has three main schools:

• College of Arts and Sciences: Provides a variety of majors in humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences.
• Leavey School of Business: Offers programs in business fields like finance, marketing, and management.
• School of Engineering: Offers several engineering courses such as civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering.

Reporting SAT scores can give a better picture of an applicant's academic skills, particularly if the scores indicate solid performance.

Santa Clara University ACT Scores Requirements

Santa Clara University (SCU) is test-optional for first-year and transfer applicants up to and including the Fall 2025 term, as submitting ACT or SAT scores is not mandatory for admission. For applicants who submit ACT scores, the middle 50% range of scores among admitted students normally ranges from 30 to 33.

Santa Clara University ACT Scores Distribution 

Though scores on standardized tests are not required, SCU uses a holistic admissions process that takes into account many different factors, such as academic achievement, extracurricular activities, personal statements, and letters of recommendation. A high ACT score, if it is submitted, can be beneficial to an applicant's profile, but it is not the only factor in admission.

It should be mentioned that SCU does not require or set ACT score cutoffs. Students are invited to submit a strong application that demonstrates their strengths and potential contributions to the university community.

Santa Clara University GPA Requirements

Santa Clara University emphasizes academic achievement, and the rigor of coursework taken by applicants. The university tends to see students having taken Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and Honors to ensure that they can undertake the programs at Santa Clara University.

Middle 50% GPA Range of Admitted Students

For students who submit SAT scores, the middle 50% range will give you a sense of where most of the admitted students are; scoring within or above this range can help strengthen your application; however, what we consider goes far beyond test scores as our process is holistic. Most Santa Clara University students admitted have a GPA between 3.6 to 4.0. Of course, in holistic admissions, the university considers other strengths, such as leadership, service, or unique skills, among those students with slightly lower GPAs.

Santa Clara University Acceptance Rate

Santa Clara University (SCU) is a selective university with an acceptance rate of around 44%. The university provides several scholarships and grants to aid its students financially. The early acceptance rate is 73.5%. 

Santa Clara University Scholarships 

For comprehensive information on financial aid opportunities, including scholarships for international students, prospective applicants are encouraged to visit SCU's official financial aid website

• Merit-Based Scholarships: SCU offers renewable merit scholarships awarded during the admission process.
• Need-Based Grants: University grants are available based on demonstrated financial need.
• Application Requirements: First-year students should complete the CSS PROFILE by the specified deadlines to be considered for the full range of scholarships and grants.

Although highly selective, Santa Clara University looks at all aspects of an application holistically: your academic record matters but so does leadership, community service, and personal growth. An application can come across as being nicely rounded through the submission of high test scores (when required), meaningful extracurricular activity and a carefully composed personal statement with a good chance of admittance to Santa Clara University.

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