Lehigh University, located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is a prestigious private institution with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1865 by industrialist Asa Parker, originally affiliated with the Episcopal church. Though not a member of the Ivy League or the Seven Sisters, Lehigh University has a reputation for high academic standards and a low acceptance rate.
Why Choose Lehigh University?
Despite its stringent acceptance criteria, Lehigh University is a top choice for students seeking a challenging and rewarding educational experience. The university excels in producing graduates who stand out nationally. It offers personalized attention, a unique educational approach, and a supportive environment that enhances students’ academic growth and their ability to make a positive impact on society.
Lehigh University Acceptance Rate
Lehigh University boasts one of the lowest acceptance rates among universities. It’s consistently ranked as one of the most selective institutions, with an acceptance rate of only 19% for both early and regular decision applicants. In the fall of 2018, the university received over 15,623 applications but admitted and enrolled just 3,418 students, making for an acceptance rate of less than 22%.
Tuition Costs
The annual undergraduate tuition at Lehigh University is $58,970, with a 3.5% annual increase set by the university’s trustees. This cost does not include additional fees such as room and board, along with other fees, bringing the total amount to around $75,820. This investment is seen as a significant commitment that prepares students for successful futures.
Transfer Student Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate for transfer students at Lehigh University is quite low, reflecting the institution’s commitment to admitting the brightest individuals. The transfer acceptance rate stands at 23.65%, indicating that out of every 100 transfer student applications received, only 24 are admitted. As a transfer student, you’ll need to excel in your courses to be considered for admission.
Lehigh University Acceptance Rate by Major
Lehigh University offers a wide range of majors, spanning various fields. The acceptance rate for these majors is generally 19%. However, certain majors are highly competitive and have their own specific acceptance rates. For instance:
- Accounting: 5%
- Mechanical engineering: 7%
- General finance: 14%
- Marketing and marketing management general: 5%
- Industrial engineering: 5%
- Biological sciences and biology: 3%
- Managerial economics and business: 4%
- Biomedical engineering and bioengineering: 4%
- Information technology: 3%
- General psychology: 4%
Requirements for Admission
To gain admission to Lehigh University, a strong academic record is necessary, but it’s not the sole requirement. The following elements are also considered:
- Completion of college prep courses
- Application fee of $70
- High school transcript
- SAT/ACT scores
- High school rank
- Letters of recommendation
- TOEFL/IELTS scores for international students
- Application fee of $70 when applying through either the Common App or Coalition App
- Minimum of 16 total credits from your prior institution
- Proof of financial support
- Copy of your passport
- Health/medical reports
Transfer Requirements
Transfer students looking to attend Lehigh University should be aware of the specific requirements for admission, including:
- A minimum GPA of 3.86 on a 4.0-point scale
- Standardized test scores
- Midpoint report
- Recommendation letters
- Senior year transcript
- College transcript
- Personal statement or composition
- A minimum of thirty credits
Minimum GPA Requirement
Lehigh University maintains a competitive atmosphere, and having a strong GPA is crucial for admission. The minimum GPA requirement for Lehigh University is 3.84 on a 4.0 scale. This high requirement contributes to the university’s reputation for attracting top-tier students.
Application Deadlines
Lehigh University accepts new students for the fall, spring, and summer semesters. Deadlines vary:
- Fall semester: Application opens in early August and closes in mid-July, with a financial aid deadline of January 1.
- Spring semester: Application period begins on September 1, with a deadline of December 1.
- Summer semester: Application period starts in the first week of April, with a mid-July deadline for all applicants.
Graduate Program Prerequisites
Lehigh University offers diverse graduate programs, each with program-specific admission requirements. General prerequisites for all graduate programs include:
- Online application submission
- $75 application fee
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Official college transcript
- Final high school transcript
- Work experience or CV
- Volunteer work history
- Commendation certificates
- GMAT/GRE exam results
What GPA do you need to get into Lehigh University?
The minimum GPA requirement is 3.84 on a 4.0 scale.
Is Lehigh hard to get into?
Yes, Lehigh is considered a highly selective university, with an acceptance rate of 19%.
Is Lehigh University prestigious?
Lehigh is known for its prestige and academic excellence.
What is Lehigh, PA known for?
Lehigh Valley, PA, is known for its rich history and a thriving cultural scene, nightlife, entertainment, arts, and outdoor activities.
Lehigh University’s low acceptance rate reflects its commitment to maintaining a high standard of academic excellence and admitting top-tier students who can contribute significantly to society. Admission to Lehigh is competitive, and applicants should meet rigorous academic and non-academic requirements to increase their chances of acceptance.