Colleges with High Acceptance Rates

Check out our list of 9 colleges with high acceptance rates and then get matched for FREE!

In the quest for a college education with high acceptance rates can serve as a source of hope, especially if academic performance poses challenges to obtaining a degree. To assist in this pursuit, we’ve curated a list of reputable higher education establishments that potentially offer admissions with acceptance rates reaching up to 100%. This resource can be immensely valuable for those seeking a new start on their collegiate journey.

3 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE RATES

In 2023, only 4.50% of applicants received admission offers from Harvard University. However, there are numerous educational institutions that approach admissions more holistically. These schools, characterized by higher acceptance rates, are less stringent. Yet, this flexibility signals their openness to recognizing potential in students with imperfect academic records. Here are three essential points to consider.

1. ACCEPTANCE RATES MAY VARY

Firstly, certain institutions, such as the University of Scranton, might boast higher early acceptance rates. Consequently, submitting your application as soon as possible could be a strategic move.

Secondly, some schools, like UNC Chapel Hill, may have disparate acceptance rates for in-state and out-of-state applicants. Consequently, it’s prudent to compare state schools with out-of-state options, as well as different campuses within the same university system. This approach allows you to identify colleges with acceptance rates that align with your educational objectives.

To sum it up, start by constructing a list of potential schools, and then meticulously compile information regarding their acceptance rates and admission policies. Consider whether staying in-state is the right choice for you, whether applying early is advantageous, and the types of institutions that best fit your aspirations.

2. CONSIDER PRIVATE COLLEGES

In many cases, smaller private colleges tend to boast higher acceptance rates when compared to their larger public university counterparts, especially in contrast to renowned public flagship institutions. In essence, it’s advisable to include private colleges in your list of prospective schools. Moreover, considering applications to regional public institutions is another avenue worth exploring. And, certainly, don’t overlook the potential of online colleges, as many of them prioritize inclusivity. In summary, be sure to thoroughly explore all your available options. As demonstrated above, you have a more extensive array of choices than you might initially realize!

3. DON’T JUST LOOK FOR THE EASIEST COLLEGES TO GET INTO

First, prioritize seeking out reputable colleges with high acceptance rates that align with your personal and professional aspirations. Subsequently, assess the educational programs and resources offered by each institution. This approach ensures that you can envision yourself thriving in that academic environment. In essence, it’s essential to strike a balance between accessibility and suitability.

Finally, consider submitting applications to multiple schools, including those categorized as “reach” institutions. This strategy enhances your prospects of finding the educational institution that best suits your needs. Essentially, when you apply to several schools, you create a situation where these institutions vie for your enrollment. In the grand scheme, having a range of choices is advantageous. In summary, aim to create a well-rounded list that combines accessible options with those that are the right fit and includes some aspirational “reach” schools. This approach provides you with a solid starting point for your college search.

University of Arizona Global Campus

  • Accredited University offering Associate’s, Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees
  • Affordable tuition, 5-6 week courses, and various payment options
  • 80+ online programs

HOW IS COLLEGE ACCEPTANCE RATE CALCULATED?

Simply put, college’s acceptance rate is determined by taking the number of students admitted to that college and dividing it by the total number of applicants. For instance, if a college received 37,000 applications and granted admission to only 3,700 students, the acceptance rate for that school would be 10%. In brief, highly sought-after institutions often have lower acceptance rates. As illustrated above, considering regional schools, online universities, or private colleges might offer you a more favorable chance of admission.

9 COLLEGES WITH HIGH ACCEPTANCE RATES

CollegeAcceptance Rate
American Intercontinental University100%
Colorado State University Global Campus96%
Southern New Hampshire University92%
Full Sail University100%
Grand Canyon University83%
South University100%
University of Arizona Global Campus87%
Saint Leo University71%
Colorado Christian University100%

1

AMERICAN INTERCONTINENTAL UNIVERSITY

Acceptance Rate: 100%

Available Degree Programs

  • BBA or Bachelor of Business Administration in Management
  • Bachelor of Healthcare Management
  • BS in Criminal Justice – Homeland Security and Crisis Management
  • Bachelor of Information Technology in Information Assurance and Security
  • BBA in Finance
Undergraduate Admissions Requirements

The admissions process at AIU include:

  • Connecting with AIU Admissions Advisor
  • Completing online application
  • Submitting official transcripts
  • Applying for financial aid

UNIQUE ELEMENTS

AIU understands the unique challenges you face. Which is why they offer flexible degree programs to fit your schedule. Additionally, they offer 24 7 support, and a Graduation Team. In order to help you through your educational journey.

2

COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY GLOBAL CAMPUS 

ACCEPTANCE RATE: 96%

Available Degree Programs

  • Bachelor of Science (BS) in Communication
  • BS in Healthcare Administration and Management
  • Information Technology BS
  • BS in Organizational Leadership
  • Human Services Bachelor’s
Undergraduate Admissions Requirements

For many years, CSU Global only granted full acceptance to students with more than 12 college credits and a GPA of 2.30 or higher. In short, students who didn’t meet these requirements were granted provisional acceptance if they submitted:

  • Statement of Purpose
  • Current professional resume
  • SmartMeasure Assessment (takes about 30 minutes)

However, Colorado State University Global Campus now accepts First Time Freshmen. The requirements include those listed above for provisional acceptance and:

  • SAT score above 1000 or ACT score above 20
  • High school GPA of 3.20 or higher
  • Less than 13 transferable college credits

UNIQUE ELEMENTS

Designed for working adults, CSU Global offers professional relevant degrees that undergo continual evaluation. Including to ensure curriculum is aligned with fast changing market and industry practices.

3

ECPI UNIVERSITY

ACCEPTANCE RATE: 82%

Available Degree Programs

  • Cloud Computing Bachelor’s
  • Cyber and Network Security Bachelor’s
  • Bachelor’s in Electronics Engineering Technology
  • Mechatronics Bachelor’s
  • Bachelor’s in Mobile Development
Undergraduate Admissions Requirements

There’s a straightforward process to applying to ECPI University, which includes:

  • Scheduling an appointment with an Admissions Advisor
  • Assessment, including basic math and English concepts
  • Completing application

UNIQUE ELEMENTS

ECPI’s success is dependent on the trust and confidence they have earned from students, employees, and the communities. In particular, the school focuses on excellence in academics, commitment to students, and continually innovating to enhance each student’s experience.

4

FULL SAIL UNIVERSITY

ACCEPTANCE RATE: 100%

Available Degree Programs

  • Bachelor of Science (BS) in Computer Animation
  • BS in Game Design
  • Graphic Design Bachelor ‘s
  • BS in Sports Marketing and Media
  • Bachelor of Science (BS) in Music Business
Undergraduate Admissions Requirements
  • Completed application and $75 application fee
  • Documentation of high school graduation (or equivalent)
  • Government-issued photo ID
  • Interview with an Admissions Representative

In addition, students do need to prove English proficiency. Another key point, for students applying to online programs, pass a technology assessment.

UNIQUE ELEMENTS

The creative approach at Full Sail includes immersive, fast paced, and relevant programs.That is to say programs that mirror the workflow and collaboration usually found in today’s rapidly changing industries.

Southern New Hampshire University

  • Multiple term start dates throughout the year. 24/7 online classroom access.
  • Popular Online Programs include Business Administration, Psychology, Information Technology, Human Services…

5

SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY 

ACCEPTANCE RATE: 92%

AVAILABLE DEGREE PROGRAMS

  • Business
  • Criminal Justice
  • IT & Cyber Security
  • Psychology
  • and more
UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

Freshmen applying to SNHU directly from high school need to:

  • Complete an Application
  • Obtain a High School Transcript Release
  • Electronic Attestation Form, stating that you’ve graduated from high school or received your GED

An SNHU admission counselor will walk you through the process and answer your questions. 

UNIQUE ELEMENTS

Named one of the world’s most innovative in 2012 by Fast Company magazine

 

6

REGENT UNIVERSITY

ACCEPTANCE RATE: 82%

AVAILABLE DEGREE PROGRAMS

  • Bachelor of Science in Business
  • BS in Criminal Justice
  • BS in Professional Studies – Healthcare Management
  • Bachelor of Science in CyberSecurity
  • Bachelor of Science in Psychology
ONLINE UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS
Note: Requirements may vary by program
  • High School Transcripts – Proof of high school graduation
  • Online Application & Questionnaire
  • Government Issued ID

Regent University offers 8 and 15 week course selections.

UNIQUE ELEMENTS

Regent University programs consistently top the charts among U.S. News & World Report “Best” rankings. Notably for quality, service and faculty credentials and training.

7

University of Arizona Global Campus 

ACCEPTANCE RATE: 87%

AVAILABLE DEGREE PROGRAMS

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Sports and Recreation Management
  • Bachelor of Science (BS) in Information Technology
  • BA in Applied Behavioral Science
  • Business Administration BA
  • BA in Instructional Design
UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

The admissions process at UAGC is designed to make sure that you are committed to pursuing your degree. Initially, your conditional acceptance requires:

  • High school diploma (or equivalent)
  • May need to submit official transcripts
  • Access to a computer that meets minimum technological requirements
  • 22 years or older (though exemptions exist for younger students)

In detail, after conditional acceptance, the school has different stages to full acceptance. For example, these include achieving a C- cumulative grade by week 3 in your first course and completing the Student Success Orientation.

UNIQUE ELEMENTS

UAGC knows how busy you are, which is why they created an online classroom that fits your needs. In particular one that you can easily access through your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Plus, you’ll have access to faculty, classmates, librarian, writing assistants, and career service specialists to support your pursuit of a degree.

8

SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY

ACCEPTANCE RATE: 71%

AVAILABLE DEGREE PROGRAMS

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Human Resource Management
  • BA in Psychology
  • BA in Sociology – Diversity and Inequality
  • Health Care Administration Bachelor of Science
  • BA in Liberal Studies
UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS
  • Complete application
  • Official high school transcripts
  • Letter of recommendation (optional)
  • Standardized test scores (optional)

UNIQUE ELEMENTS

As the oldest Catholic institution of higher education in Florida, St. Leo University seeks balanced growth in mind, body, and spirit for all members of their diverse community of students.

9

COLORADO CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY

ACCEPTANCE RATE: 100%

AVAILABLE DEGREE PROGRAMS

  • Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting
  • BS in Business Administration
  • Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Communication Studies
  • BS in Human Resource Management
  • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) – RN to BSN
UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS
  • 2.8 high school GPA
  • SAT score of 1060 (or ACT score of 21)
  • Strong spiritual recommendation
  • Admission essay

With this in mind, the school recommends that you apply even if you don’t meet these requirements. In this case, CCU will still consider your application under a committee review process, which may include a personal interview.

UNIQUE ELEMENTS

As one of the premier interdenominational Christian colleges in Colorado, Colorado Christian University places a strong emphasis on excellence in teaching and providing opportunities for research and performance for both faculty and students.

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*https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d20/tables/dt20_311.15.asp

Sources for school statistics is the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics.

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1 You must apply for a new loan each school year. This approval percentage is based on students with a Sallie Mae undergraduate loan in the 2018/19 school year who were approved when they returned in 2019/20. It does not include the denied applications of students who were ultimately approved in 2019/20.

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