This is an archived copy of the 2020-2021 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://coursecatalog.bucknell.edu.

Qualifications for Admission

Bucknell University’s admissions process is highly selective, as the University receives many more well-qualified applicants than it has spaces available in each incoming class. The admissions committee’s review process includes:

  • Quality of the admissions application

  • Secondary school record, including both rigor and performance

  • SAT or ACT test scores, if the applicant chooses to include them on the application (applicants are required to submit TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic scores if English is not their first language or if it is not the primary language of instruction). Please note home school students, international citizens, and recruited athletes are required to submit SAT or ACT test scores.

  • Written recommendations

  • School and community activities

  • Indications of special talents

  • Evidence of strong personal qualities of character and leadership

The admissions committee is interested in applicants with the intellectual capabilities, academic preparation, and sincere interest in contributing to Bucknell’s residential learning community.