Bucknell UniversityBucknell University
Lewisburg, PA · Northeast
Bucknell University has an acceptance rate of 28.9% and a middle-50% SAT range of 1310-1470. The numbers below show who gets in and what it costs.
- Acceptance rate
- 28.9%
- SAT mid-50
- 1310-1470
- Cost after aid
- $40,766
- Graduation rate
- 86%
Application deadlines
Official 2026-2027 cycle deadlines for Bucknell University.
| Plan | Deadline |
|---|---|
Early Decision IApplication, scholarship application, CSS Profile, and FAFSA due by deadline. | Nov 1, 2026 |
Early Decision IIApplication, scholarship application, CSS Profile, and FAFSA due by deadline. | Jan 10, 2027 |
Regular DecisionApplication, scholarship application, CSS Profile, and FAFSA due by deadline. | Jan 10, 2027 |
Essays
- Bucknell University supplemental essays: the 2025-26 prompts and word limits.
- Grade your draft free with Kolly's college essay grader, scored against accepted essays.
About Bucknell University
Bucknell University is a small private university in Lewisburg, PA, in a city setting.
What Bucknell University looks for
With an acceptance rate around 29%, the application readers spend less time per file than they do at the most selective schools, but they still read. A solid GPA, strong letters, and an essay that sounds like you wrote it yourself go a long way here. The biggest unforced error: a generic supplement essay. Even moderately selective schools notice when you have not bothered to learn anything about them.
Frequently asked
What SAT score do I need for Bucknell University?
Bucknell University's middle 50% SAT range is 1310 to 1470. A score in or above that band keeps you in the conversation; below it, the rest of your application has to do more work.
What ACT score do I need for Bucknell University?
Middle 50% ACT range is 30 to 33. The top of that range or above is what most admitted students submit when they choose to send a score.
What is the acceptance rate at Bucknell University?
Bucknell University admits roughly 29% of applicants. Selective, but stats inside the middle 50% put you in real contention.
What does Bucknell University actually cost after financial aid?
Average net cost (after institutional aid) is about $40,766 per year. Net cost varies enormously by family income; run the school's net price calculator for an estimate that reflects your situation.
Is Bucknell University a reach, match, or safety for me?
Compare your stats to the middle 50% above. If you are at or below the 25th percentile, treat Bucknell University as a reach. If you are in the middle 50%, it is a match. Above the 75th percentile and the school accepts above 25% overall, it is closer to a safety. Selectivity below 20% should be treated as a reach for everyone, period.
