does liberty university require an essay

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

Liberty University Requirements for Admission

What are Liberty University's admission requirements? While there are a lot of pieces that go into a college application, you should focus on only a few critical things:

• GPA requirements
• Testing requirements, including SAT and ACT requirements
• Application requirements

In this guide we'll cover what you need to get into Liberty University and build a strong application.

School location: Lynchburg, VA

This school is also known as: LU

Admissions Rate: 55.5%

If you want to get in, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate. This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are.

The acceptance rate at Liberty University is 55.5% . For every 100 applicants, 56 are admitted.

This means the school is moderately selective . The school expects you to meet their requirements for GPA and SAT/ACT scores, but they're more flexible than other schools. If you exceed their requirements, you have an excellent chance of getting in. But if you don't, you might be one of the unlucky minority that gets a rejection letter.

We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world's best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies . We've overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools , from state colleges to the Ivy League.

We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools.

Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in.

Liberty University GPA Requirements

Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected.

The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school's average GPA for its current students.

Average GPA: 3.59

The average GPA at Liberty University is 3.59 .

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.

With a GPA of 3.59, Liberty University requires you to be around average in your high school class. You'll need a mix of A's and B's, and very few C's. If you have a lower GPA, you can compensate with harder courses like AP or IB classes. This will help boost your weighted GPA and show your ability to take college classes.

If you're currently a junior or senior, your GPA is hard to change in time for college applications. If your GPA is at or below the school average of 3.59, you'll need a higher SAT or ACT score to compensate . This will help you compete effectively against other applicants who have higher GPAs than you.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them.

Liberty University hasn't explicitly named a policy on SAT/ACT requirements, but because it's published average SAT or ACT scores (we'll cover this next), it's likely test flexible. Typically, these schools say, "if you feel your SAT or ACT score represents you well as a student, submit them. Otherwise, don't."

Despite this policy, the truth is that most students still take the SAT or ACT, and most applicants to Liberty University will submit their scores. If you don't submit scores, you'll have one fewer dimension to show that you're worthy of being admitted, compared to other students. We therefore recommend that you consider taking the SAT or ACT, and doing well.

Liberty University SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school's average score.

Average SAT: 1166

The average SAT score composite at Liberty University is a 1166 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes Liberty University Competitive for SAT test scores.

Liberty University SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 1050, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1270. In other words, a 1050 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1270 will move you up to above average .

Here's the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

SAT Score Choice Policy

The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.

Liberty University has the Score Choice policy of "Highest Section."

This is also known as "superscoring." This means that you can choose which SAT tests you want to send to the school. Of all the scores they receive, your application readers will consider your highest section scores across all SAT test dates you submit .

Click below to learn more about how superscoring critically affects your test strategy.

For example, say you submit the following 3 test scores:

Even though the highest total you scored on any one test date was 1000, Liberty University will take your highest section score from all your test dates, then combine them to form your Superscore. You can raise your composite score from 1000 to 1400 in this example.

This is important for your testing strategy. Because you can choose which tests to send in, and Liberty University forms your Superscore, you can take the SAT as many times as you want, then submit only the tests that give you the highest Superscore. Your application readers will only see that one score.

Therefore, if your SAT superscore is currently below a 1166, we strongly recommend that you consider prepping for the SAT and retaking it . You have a very good chance of raising your score, which will significantly boost your chances of getting in.

Even better, because of the Superscore, you can focus all your energy on a single section at a time. If your Reading score is lower than your other sections, prep only for the Reading section, then take the SAT. Then focus on Math for the next test, and so on. This will give you the highest Superscore possible.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

Liberty University ACT Requirements

Just like for the SAT, Liberty University likely doesn't have a hard ACT cutoff, but if you score too low, your application will get tossed in the trash.

Average ACT: 25

The average ACT score at Liberty University is 25. This score makes Liberty University Moderately Competitive for ACT scores.

The 25th percentile ACT score is 21, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 29.

Even though Liberty University likely says they have no minimum ACT requirement, if you apply with a 21 or below, you'll have a harder time getting in, unless you have something else impressive in your application.

ACT Score Sending Policy

If you're taking the ACT as opposed to the SAT, you have a huge advantage in how you send scores, and this dramatically affects your testing strategy.

Here it is: when you send ACT scores to colleges, you have absolute control over which tests you send. You could take 10 tests, and only send your highest one. This is unlike the SAT, where many schools require you to send all your tests ever taken.

This means that you have more chances than you think to improve your ACT score. To try to aim for the school's ACT requirement of 25 and above, you should try to take the ACT as many times as you can. When you have the final score that you're happy with, you can then send only that score to all your schools.

ACT Superscore Policy

By and large, most colleges do not superscore the ACT. (Superscore means that the school takes your best section scores from all the test dates you submit, and then combines them into the best possible composite score). Thus, most schools will just take your highest ACT score from a single sitting.

We weren't able to find the school's exact ACT policy, which most likely means that it does not Superscore. Regardless, you can choose your single best ACT score to send in to Liberty University, so you should prep until you reach our recommended target ACT score of 25.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

SAT/ACT Writing Section Requirements

Currently, only the ACT has an optional essay section that all students can take. The SAT used to also have an optional Essay section, but since June 2021, this has been discontinued unless you are taking the test as part of school-day testing in a few states. Because of this, no school requires the SAT Essay or ACT Writing section, but some schools do recommend certain students submit their results if they have them.

Liberty University considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don't need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you're applying to may require it.

Final Admissions Verdict

Because this school is moderately selective, strong academic performance will almost guarantee you admission . Scoring a 1270 SAT or a 29 ACT or above will nearly guarantee you admission. Because the school admits 55.5% of all applicants, being far above average raises the admission rate for you to nearly 100%.

If you can achieve a high SAT/ACT score, the rest of your application essentially doesn't matter. You still need to meet the rest of the application requirements, and your GPA shouldn't be too far off from the school average of 3.59. But you won't need dazzling extracurriculars and breathtaking letters of recommendation to get in. You can get in based on the merits of your score alone.

But if your score is a 1050 SAT or a 21 ACT and below, you have a good chance of being one of the unlucky few to be rejected.

Admissions Calculator

Here's our custom admissions calculator. Plug in your numbers to see what your chances of getting in are. Pick your test: SAT ACT

• 80-100%: Safety school: Strong chance of getting in
• 50-80%: More likely than not getting in
• 20-50%: Lower but still good chance of getting in
• 5-20%: Reach school: Unlikely to get in, but still have a shot
• 0-5%: Hard reach school: Very difficult to get in

How would your chances improve with a better score?

Take your current SAT score and add 160 points (or take your ACT score and add 4 points) to the calculator above. See how much your chances improve?

At PrepScholar, we've created the leading online SAT/ACT prep program . We guarantee an improvement of 160 SAT points or 4 ACT points on your score, or your money back.

Here's a summary of why we're so much more effective than other prep programs:

• PrepScholar customizes your prep to your strengths and weaknesses . You don't waste time working on areas you already know, so you get more results in less time.
• We guide you through your program step-by-step so that you're never confused about what you should be studying. Focus all your time learning, not worrying about what to learn.
• Our team is made of national SAT/ACT experts . PrepScholar's founders are Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers . You'll be studying using the strategies that actually worked for them.
• We've gotten tremendous results with thousands of students across the country. Read about our score results and reviews from our happy customers .

There's a lot more to PrepScholar that makes it the best SAT/ACT prep program. Click to learn more about our program , or sign up for our 5-day free trial to check out PrepScholar for yourself:

Application Requirements

Every school requires an application with the bare essentials - high school transcript and GPA, application form, and other core information. Many schools, as explained above, also require SAT and ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation, application essays, and interviews. We'll cover the exact requirements of Liberty University here.

Application Requirements Overview

• Common Application Not accepted
• Electronic Application Available
• Essay or Personal Statement Required for all freshmen
• Letters of Recommendation
• Interview Not required
• Application Fee $50
• Fee Waiver Available? Available
• Other Notes

Testing Requirements

• SAT or ACT Considered if submitted
• SAT Essay or ACT Writing Optional
• SAT Subject Tests
• Scores Due in Office None

Coursework Requirements

• Subject Required Years
• Foreign Language
• Social Studies

Deadlines and Early Admissions

• Offered? Deadline Notification
• Yes Rolling Rolling

Admissions Office Information

• Address: 1971 Lynchburg, VA 24515
• Phone: (434) 582-2000 x2000
• Fax: (434) 582-2304
• Email: [email protected]

Other Schools For You

If you're interested in Liberty University, you'll probably be interested in these schools as well. We've divided them into 3 categories depending on how hard they are to get into, relative to Liberty University.

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than Liberty University. If you improve your SAT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

Same Level: Equally Hard to Get Into

If you're competitive for Liberty University, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you're currently competitive for Liberty University, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If Liberty University is currently out of your reach, you might already be competitive for these schools.

Data on this page is sourced from Peterson's Databases © 2023 (Peterson's LLC. All rights reserved.) as well as additional publicly available sources.

If You Liked Our Advice...

Our experts have written hundreds of useful articles on improving your SAT score and getting into college. You'll definitely find something useful here.

Subscribe to our newsletter to get FREE strategies and guides sent to your email. Learn how to ace the SAT with exclusive tips and insights that we share with our private newsletter subscribers.

You should definitely follow us on social media . You'll get updates on our latest articles right on your feed. Follow us on all of our social networks:

The Admissions Process at Liberty University

SAT Scores, Acceptance Rate, Financial Aid, and More

Dennis K. Johnson/Getty Images

• College Profiles
• College Admissions Process
• College Rankings
• Choosing A College
• Application Tips
• Essay Samples & Tips
• Testing Graphs
• College Financial Aid
• Advanced Placement
• Homework Help
• Private School
• College Life
• Graduate School
• Business School
• Distance Learning
• Ph.D., English, University of Pennsylvania
• M.A., English, University of Pennsylvania
• B.S., Materials Science & Engineering and Literature, MIT

Liberty University is generally a selective school, but this is due to the large applicant pool. Only around a quarter of applicants are admitted. Students will, in general, need strong grades and high test scores to be admitted to Liberty. Application requirements include an application form, SAT or ACT scores, high school transcripts, and a personal essay. For more information, feel free to contact the admissions office.

Admissions Data

• Liberty University Acceptance Rate: 24%
• GPA, SAT and ACT Graph for Liberty Admissions
• SAT Critical Reading: 480/600
• SAT Math: 470/ 90
• SAT Writing: - / -
• ACT Composite: 21/28
• ACT English: 2/28
• ACT Math: 19/27

Liberty University Description

Founded by Jerry Falwell and grounded in evangelical Christian values, Liberty University takes pride in being the world's largest Christian university. The residential campus of about 12,000 students is located in Lynchburg, Virginia. The university enrolls another 50,000 online and has set a goal to increase that number significantly in the future. Students come from all 50 states and 70 countries. Undergraduates can choose from 135 areas of study. Liberty has a 23 to 1 student/faculty ratio. All faculty are non-tenured.

Liberty is not for everyone. This Christ-centered school embraces political conservatism, prohibits alcohol and tobacco use, requires chapel three times weekly, and enforces a modest dress code and curfew. The university is a common speaking venue for conservative political candidates. In athletics, the Liberty University Flames compete in the NCAA Division I  Big South Conference . The school fields 20 varsity teams.

• Total enrollment in 2016: 75,756 (47,050 undergraduates)
• Gender breakdown: 42% Male / 58% Female
• 58% Full-time
• Tuition and fees (2016-2017): $21,292
• Books : $1,771
• Room and board: $8,963
• Other expenses: $5,619
• Total cost: $37,645

Financial Aid

• Percentage of new students receiving ad (2015-2016): 96%
• Grants: 95%
• Grants: $10,768
• Loans: $7,005

Academic Programs

• Most popular majors:   Accounting, Business, Criminal Justice, Interdisciplinary Studies, Nursing, Psychology, Religion

Transfer, Graduation, and Retention Rates

• First-year student retention (full-time students): 83%
• Transfer out rate: 21%
• 4-Year Graduation rate: 32%
• 6-Year Graduation rate: 54%

Intercollegiate Athletic Programs

• Men's Sports: football, tennis, track and field, baseball, cross country, basketball, golf, soccer
• Women's Sports: basketball, field hockey, volleyball, cross country, lacrosse, softball, soccer, swimming and diving, track and field

"Liberty University." National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education, 2018.

• Clarkson University: Acceptance Rate and Admissions Statistics
• St. Lawrence University: Acceptance Rate and Admissions Statistics
• University of Rochester: Acceptance Rate and Admissions Statistics
• Gardner-Webb University Admissions
• King University Admissions
• Rochester Institute of Technology: Acceptance Rate and Admissions Statistics
• St. John Fisher College: Acceptance Rate and Admissions Statistics
• Colorado Christian University Admissions
• MidAmerica Nazarene University Admissions
• University of Lynchburg Admissions
• Grace College Admissions
• Milligan College Admissions
• Taylor University Admissions
• Randolph College Admissions
• Lee University Admissions
• Eastern Mennonite University Admissions

• Books, Articles, & More
• Curriculum Library
• Archives & Special Collections
• Scholars Crossing
• Research Guides
• Student Support
• Faculty Support
• Interlibrary Loan

APA Writing Guide: Formatting for Graduate Students

• Formatting for Undergraduates
• Formatting for Graduate Students
• In-text Citations
• Books and Ebooks
• Journal Articles
• Misc.Citations

Writing Center

The Liberty University Writing Center is available to provide writing coaching to students. Residential students should contact the  On-Campus Writing Center  for assistance. Online students should contact the  Online Writing Center  for assistance.

General Rules

Liberty University has determined that graduate students will use APA 7’s formatting guidelines for professional papers. To assist you, Liberty University's Writing Center provides a template paper and a  sample paper .

For professional papers, the following four sections are required: 

• Title Page with Running Head
• Abstract with Keywords
• Reference List

Here are a few things to keep in mind as you format your paper:

• Fonts  - LU recommends that papers be typed in 12-point Times New Roman or 11-point Calibri fonts.  
• Use only one space at the end of each sentence in the body of your paper.
• In general, APA papers should be double spaced throughout. A list of exceptions can be found here.
• To make sure that your paper is double spaced throughout,  select the text ,  right click , select ' Paragraph ,' and look under the section ' Line Spacing ' as shown below:

• Margins/Alignment  - Your paper should use 1-inch margins on standard-sized paper (8.5' X 11'). Make sure that you use  Align Left  (CTRL + L) on the paper, except for the title page.  
•   Indentation – The first sentence in each new paragraph in the body of the paper should be indented a half inch. The abstract, however, should not be indented. References use hanging indentation .  
• Headings:   Please note that all headings are in title case. Level 1 headings should be centered (and in bold), and Level 2 and 3 headings should be left-aligned (and in bold or bold italic, respectively). Level 4 and 5 headings are indented like regular paragraphs. An example of formatting headings in a paper is available here

Title Page: When setting up the professional title page, please note the following elements should be present on the page:

• There is no limit to the number of words in the title.
• Add an extra blank double-spaced line between the title and author’s name.
• Name of each author (centered)
• Name of department and institution/affiliation (centered)
• Place the author note in the bottom half of the title page. Center and bold the label “Author Note.” Align the paragraphs of the author note to the left. For an example, see the LU Writing Center template for graduate students here .
• Page number in top right corner of the header, starting with page 1 on the title page
• The running head is an abbreviated version of the title of your paper (or the full title if the title is already short).
• Type the running head in all-capital letters.
• Ensure the running head is no more than 50 characters, including spaces and punctuation.
• The running head appears in the same format on every page, including the first page.
• Do not use the label “Running head:” before the running head.
• Align the running head to the left margin of the page header, across from the right-aligned page number.

Abstract Page: The abstract page includes the abstract and related keywords.

The abstract is a brief but comprehensive summary of your paper. Here are guidelines for formatting the abstract:

• It should be the second page of a professional (graduate level) paper.
• The first line should say “Abstract” centered and in bold.
• The abstract should start one line below the section label.
• It should be a single paragraph and should not be indented.
• It should not exceed 250 words.

Keywords are used for indexing in databases and as search terms. Your keywords should capture the most important aspects of your paper in three to five words, phrases, or acronyms. Here are formatting guidelines:

• Label “ Keywords ” one line below the abstract, indented and in italics (not bolded).
• The keywords should be written on the same line as and one space after the label “ Keywords ”.
• The keywords should be lowercase (but capitalize proper nouns) and not italic or bold.
• Each keyword should be separated by a comma and a space and followed by a colon.
• There should be no ending punctuation.
• << Previous: Formatting for Undergraduates
• Next: In-text Citations >>
• Last Updated: Aug 29, 2023 11:29 AM
• URL: https://libguides.liberty.edu/APAguide

Just one more step to start saving colleges!

Sign up for an account or login to start your college list.

Liberty University

Student Life

Tuition & Aid

Liberty University Admissions

It is not difficult to get into Liberty University.

If you are applying to Liberty University, the application fee costs $50.

Liberty University Admissions Stats at a Glance

The following is an overiew of some of Liberty University's admissions stats.

Liberty University Application Deadlines

These are the application deadlines for Liberty University.

Applying Early to Liberty University?

Liberty University does not offer early decision or early action.

➡️ Find a list of some top colleges that accept significantly more applicants during early decision or early action than during regular admission.

More on Liberty University Admissions

Transferring to liberty university.

It is not difficult to be admitted as a transfer student.

For Students Waitlisted to Liberty University

Liberty University has not reported data for waitlisted and admitted students.

What Does Liberty University Look For in an Applicant?

Colleges consider a range of factors when determining who to admit for their next incoming class. Each college decides which factors are are most important when choose which applicants to admit, and which to deny. When assembling your list of schools to apply to, you may want to consider your strengths and any possible weaknesses in your application, and choose schools that prioritize the areas where you're strong.

Admissions Factors at Liberty University

What does Liberty University consider during the admissions process? Take a look at the list below to see which factors are most important during the admissions process.

Make sure to check with Liberty University for more information on admission factors.

Liberty University Application Requirements

To apply to Liberty University, all applicants must submit the following items. Check in with Liberty University's admissions department to confirm all application materials and requirements.

GPA and Testing

What gpa do i need to get into liberty university.

Students admitted to Liberty University have an average unweighted GPA of 3.6.

Your high school grade point average (GPA) is a number that reflects your high school academic performance. A weighted GPA or an unweighted GPA are the two possible GPA scores considered by colleges.

An unweighted GPA is an average of your scores from each class on a four-point scale. Unweighted GPAs range from 4.0 to under 1.0. A weighted GPA considers your average grade and the difficulty of your classes. A weighted GPA boosts your average by adding extra points for honors or Advanced Placement courses.

Standardized Test Scores

Liberty University does not have a test optional admissions policy. Test optional schools allow students to choose if they want to submit ACT or SAT scores with their applications or not.

In 2022, 43% of Liberty University's first-year students submitted their SAT scores with their application. 25% of admitted applicants sent ACT scores.

What is a Good SAT Score for Liberty University?

To be competitive with other Liberty University applicants, you should aim to earn between 1050 and 1270 (or higher!) on the SAT. At Liberty University 25% of admitted students scored higher than 1270 and 25% of scored lower than 1050, but the majority of students scored somewhere in between these two numbers.The mean composite SAT score for a Liberty University student is 1166.

On the SAT Math Section , 25% of Liberty University students scored 620 or higher and 75% of students scored 530 or higher. On the SAT Critical Reading section (formerly called the Verbal section), 25% of Liberty University students scored 660 or higher, and 75% scored a 530 or higher.

To be most competitive at Liberty University, you should strive to earn between 21 and 29 on the ACT.

An ACT score of 29 means you fall in the 75th percentile for Liberty University's admitted students. One out of every four students scored above a 29, and three out of four students scored lower than 29 on the ACT.

A 21 on the ACT is the 25th percentile for Liberty University students. Only one out of every four students scored below 21.

More Information on Transferring to Liberty University

For transfer students, it is not difficult to get admitted to Liberty University. Transfer applications are processed on a on a rolling basis as they are received.

Transfer students can enroll in Liberty University during the following terms:

• Fall Term

• Winter Term

• Spring Term

• Summer Term

Liberty University Admissions FAQs

Can I defer my acceptance to Liberty University?

❌ Students who are admitted to Liberty University must attend in the term they start. Deferring admissions is not encouraged. If you have a unusual circumstance, contact the admissions department.

Does Liberty University accept transfer credits?

✅ Liberty University accepts eligible transfer credits from accredited institutions. Liberty University accepts:

• CLEP subject tests • DSST/DANTES • Life Long Learning Credit

Does Liberty University accept Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) credits?

✅ Liberty University accepts International Baccalaureate credits (IB) credits.

Do I have to submit test scores to Liberty University?

✅ Liberty University is not test optional.

What is the early decision acceptance rate at Liberty University?

❌ Liberty University does not offer early decision.

Want To Learn More About Liberty University?

To learn more about Liberty University, choose from the options below:

See what others are saying about Liberty University in the College Confidential forums

Explore other colleges in Virginia or use the college admissions predictor to calculate your chances of getting into some of the top colleges and universities in the U.S.

Liberty University Admissions Requirements

Admission Difficulty

Less Selective

Liberty university application deadline.

First-Year Applications are Due

Continuous processing

Transfer Applications are Due

The deadline for Fall first-year applications to Liberty University is Continuous processing.

The deadline for Fall transfer applications to Liberty University is Continuous processing.

Check the school website for more information about deadlines for specific programs or special admissions programs

Liberty University SAT Scores

Composite SAT Range

1050 - 1270

Math SAT Range

Reading SAT Range

Estimated Chance of Acceptance by SAT Score

Estimated Chance

1270 and Above

1050 to 1270

1050 and Less

SAT Scores Needed to Get Accepted

The median SAT score for Liberty University students is 1166. Applicants with SAT scores of 1270 and above have a good chance of being admitted to Liberty University, while applicants with SAT scores between 1050 to 1270 have an average chance of admittance, and prospective students with an SAT score below 1050 have a low chance of being offered a spot at Liberty University.

Liberty University GPA

Avg. High School GPA (non-weighted)

GPA Needed to Get Accepted

At Liberty University, the average unweighted high-school GPA for admitted students is 3.59. This is the average, which means that some applicants submit GPAs lower than this and some applicants submit GPAs above this level. If your GPA falls below the average, strong test scores or other qualifications may help you make you a more competitive applicant.

Data Source: IPEDs and Peterson's Databases © 2022 Peterson's LLC All rights reserved

Quick Facts

Total Enrollment

Campus Setting

Acceptance Rate

Tuition and Fees

Out-of-State

Fall Freshmen Application Deadline

Find Your Scholarship

Want to find money for school that doesn’t need to be paid back? Access insights and advice on how to search and apply for scholarships!

Do You Work at a University?

Claim your page to customize your profile and connect with students!

Need Advice or Have a Question About Liberty University?

Connect with the world's largest college forum for candid, authentic discussion.

Liberty University

Cost & scholarships.

• Essay prompt

Your chances

Acceptance rate, acceptance rate breakdown, applicant breakdown.

Published costs and averages can be misleading: they don’t fully account for your family’s finances (for financial aid) or your academic profile (for scholarships).

Want to see your personalized net cost after financial aid and scholarships?

Applications

How to apply, tests typically submitted, enrolled breakdown by gender, race & ethnicity diversity, special academic offering, study abroad, credit for ap exams, offers graduate degree, academic and career counseling, similar schools.

College Reality Check

Is a Degree From Liberty University Good or Bad?

While it has on-campus degrees, Liberty University is more known for offering online programs. As a matter of fact, the Lynchburg, Virginia-based institution offers a total of 682 online degree programs. And now you may be wondering if Liberty University is one of those diploma mills that offer degrees no one takes seriously.

A degree earned from Liberty University is respected by graduate schools and employers. It’s a selective school (51% acceptance rate) with conservative Christian proclivity. Liberty University also has regional accreditation, which is widely regarded as more prestigious than national accreditation.

Read on if you are thinking about sending an application to Liberty University and earning a degree in the comfort of your home. We will answer some of the most pressing questions everyone has about this online university.

Is Liberty University a Diploma Mill?

Liberty University is not a diploma mill. Besides online degrees, it also offers on-campus degrees, which diploma mills do not offer. Also, the graduation rate at Liberty University is 47.40%. Everyone who applies to diploma mills, on the other hand, automatically graduates and earns a fake degree.

Many students are wary of earning degrees on the internet. That’s because they might make the mistake of enrolling at diploma mills and ending up with degrees that employers do not consider legit.

If Liberty University is on the top of your list, you will be more than glad to know that the school is very far from being a diploma mill. As mentioned earlier, it has traditional degrees, too, that students can earn by stepping foot on its 7,000-acre campus that houses 15 colleges, including a medical school, law school and school of divinity.

Diploma mills do not have campuses. As a matter of fact, most of them will not even reveal where their physical offices are. This is to keep irate victims from coming after them.

Overall, my experience with Liberty University was fantastic. However, online learning does present unique challenges. I found the overwhelming majority of professors to be extremely helpful as was the support staff. Graduate Student, Niche.com

Is Liberty University Accredited?

Liberty University is an accredited school. The agency responsible for it is the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). It’s the accrediting agency for various colleges and universities in the Southern states. SACSCOC also accredits international schools.

SACSCOC approved the most recent accreditation of Liberty University in 2016. The school’s accreditation will remain valid for 10 years from the time of approval.

Besides the institution itself, various programs that Liberty University offers, on-campus and online alike, have accreditation from more specialized accrediting bodies in the country. This helps give students peace of mind that the degrees they plan to earn from the school are recognized and will be respected by potential employers.

For instance, the different business-related programs Liberty University offers, such as BS in Business Administration and MS in Accounting, are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

Is Liberty University Regionally or Nationally Accredited?

Liberty University is a regionally accredited school by SACSCOC. Its accreditation type is regarded as more prestigious than national accreditation. Regionally accredited schools offer four-year degrees. On the other hand, nationally accredited schools offer technical or vocational courses.

It was mentioned earlier that the accrediting agency that gave Liberty University accreditation is SACSCOC. What wasn’t cited, however, is the fact that SACSCOC grants regional accreditation.

When looking for colleges and universities to apply to, it’s a must to check that they have accreditation. A school can either be regionally accredited or nationally accredited.

Liberty University has regional accreditation, which is widely considered as the most prestigious between the two, and it comes with a couple of benefits.

First, the credits you earn from a regionally accredited school will be accepted at more schools.

Second, employers are more familiar with regionally accredited institutions, equating to higher chances of getting hired.

What is Liberty University Known For?

Liberty University is known for being a Christian liberal arts institution. It’s known for offering various online programs, although it has a campus where degrees may be earned traditionally. Some of the most popular majors at Liberty University are Business, Management, Accounting and Engineering.

If you want to earn a degree that will prepare you for an assortment of career paths instead of something more specific, it’s a good idea to apply to a liberal arts school. One example is Liberty University.

One of the nicest things about going to a liberal arts college is that, most of the time, you can create your own program that meets your particular need or interest. So, in other words, you can get your hands on a degree that can highlight your strengths, thus making it possible for you to turn the job of your wildest dreams into a reality.

Ranking-wise, US News ranks Liberty University number 157 in Best Engineering Programs, number 298 in Best National Universities and number 340 in Top Performers on Social Mobility.

What is the Acceptance Rate at Liberty University?

The acceptance rate at Liberty University is 51%. By admitting over half of applicants, it’s a moderately selective school. Over 15,000 are going to its physical campus, with more than 50% of them residing on-campus. On the other hand, over 100,000 are taking online programs from Liberty University.

Given its acceptance rate, you have a 50/50 chance of receiving an acceptance letter from Liberty University. Having a strong application is a must if you plan on earning a degree, traditional or online, from the school.

Unfortunately, unlike the almost 900 colleges and universities in the US, Liberty University does not accept applications via the Common App.

Similarly, it doesn’t utilize the Coalition App. If you want to send your application to the liberal arts school, you will have to fill out an application available at its online portal.

By the way, Liberty University has a rolling admissions policy . This means that its admissions officers evaluate applications as soon as they are received rather than wait to evaluate all of them after a set deadline.

What GPA Do You Need to Get Into Liberty University?

According to Liberty University’s admissions officers, students do not have to meet any minimum GPA requirements when applying. It’s enough that they are in good academic standing. However, about 50% of students who gain admission into the liberal arts college have GPAs that range from 3.15 to 3.83.

Thanks to a flexible GPA requirement, there is no need for students wanting to attend Liberty University to worry that their GPAs are not enough for them to receive acceptance letters from the Lynchburg, Virginia-based institution.

Like most US colleges and universities, Liberty University has a holistic admission process. This means that the institution takes a look at a student’s entire application, not just the GPA. The admission essay, for instance, is one of the most important steps in the admission process, say Liberty University’s admissions officers themselves.

It’s also recommended by the school for applicants to have completed the following classes in high school:

• Four units of English
• Four units of elective credits
• Two to three years of college preparatory mathematics
• Two years of laboratory science
• Two years of social science
• Two years of foreign language

Does Liberty University Require SAT or ACT Scores?

Right now, Liberty University has a test-optional admissions policy. This means that it allows applicants to decide whether or not they will submit their SAT or ACT scores. Submitted test scores will be considered in the admissions process. Liberty University also superscores SAT or ACT scores.

Prior to deciding to be a test-optional school, around 50% of students admitted into Liberty University had SAT scores ranging anywhere from 1020 to 1220 or ACT scores ranging anywhere from 20 to 27.

It’s no secret that the majority of US colleges and universities, particularly those with non-test-optional admissions policies, require applicants to submit their test scores. Before going test-optional, there is another standardized test that Liberty University. It’s none other than CLT, which is short for Classic Learning Test.

Currently, there are more than 150 institutions in the country that accept CLT scores as alternatives to SAT or ACT scores. Many schools that accept CLT also offer merit-based scholarships to students with high test scores.

How Much Does It Cost to Go to Liberty University?

For the academic year 2021 to 2022, the tuition at Liberty University for full-time undergraduate students costs $23,800. The tuition for graduate students varies. On the other hand, the tuition for online students for the same academic year costs $9,360 (undergraduate) or $10,170 (graduate).

Because Liberty University is a private institution, there are no such things as in-state tuition and out-of-state tuition. No matter where they live, students attending the school have to pay the same amount of tuition.

Generally speaking, online degrees are easier on the pocket than traditional degrees. However, it’s important to note that the same amount of hard work and discipline is required for both degrees. Needless to say, getting your hands on an online degree from Liberty University is cheaper and, in many instances, faster, too.

The Best Colleges, a ranking site, included Liberty University in its 2021 list of The Most Affordable Online Colleges and Universities. Let’s take a look at five of the ranked institutions together with their tuition costs:

Is Liberty University a For-Profit School?

Liberty University is not a for-profit school. So, in other words, the liberal arts college is not established to gain profit and revenues. The institution itself says that being a non-profit school is an opportunity to invest in the lives of students who will go out and impact the world for Christ.

Besides diploma mills, there are other types of institutions many students who plan to earn online degrees tend to stay away from. They are none other than for-profit schools.

First things first: not all for-profit schools are bad institutions.

Unfortunately, they are known to cost so much more than most traditional colleges and universities. What’s more, a lot of them are notorious for offering poor-quality programs, which can make it difficult for their students to transfer to other schools or their graduates to get employed.

One of the proofs that Liberty University is not a for-profit school is the fact that its tuition costs for all undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs have not increased in six years .

Also, it offers quality programs, including online ones. As a matter of fact, Liberty University is number six in the 2021 Best Online Colleges in America ranking by Niche.

I am finishing a bachelor’s degree through Liberty Online. For the most part, my experience has been positive, although I have experienced issues with the registrar/administration. Be prepared to incorporate a biblical worldview in all assignments regardless of the discipline. This was particularly challenging for me as I am not a Christian. Senior Student, Niche.com

What Famous People Went to Liberty University?

Many well-known people attended or graduated from Liberty University. Some of them are politicians, lawyers, and academic administrators and professors. Others are former and current pastors. There are also CEOs, entrepreneurs, and athletes, as well as those who are in the entertainment business.

Some students check out the former students of a school, particularly those whose names ring a bell. This allows them to get an idea of the things that could result from earning a degree from that institution.

Here are some of the most notable alumni of Liberty University:

• Tony Perkins. An ordained Southern Baptist pastor, politician and activist, Tony Perkins serves as the president of the Family Research Council, which is a Washington, DC-based Christian conservative policy and lobbying organization. He graduated from Liberty University with a Bachelor of Science degree.
• Jerry Falwell Jr. Resigned as Liberty University’s president in 2020, Jerry Falwell Jr. is a lawyer and an important member of the Evangelical Christian community. He is the son of televangelist Jerry Falwell Sr. In 1984, he graduated from Liberty University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Religious Studies.
• Chuck Baldwin. Ex-pastor of Crossroad Baptist Church in Pensacola, Florida Chuck Baldwin ran for vice president in 2008 and president in 2011. Currently, he hosts Chuck Baldwin Live, a daily one-hour radio program. He graduated with a Bible diploma from Liberty University’s Liberty Bible Institute.
• Shannon Bream. A former Miss Virginia winner and Miss America participant, Shannon Bream is a lawyer and journalist who appears on Fox News Channel. She became the host of the program Fox News @ Night. In 1993, she graduated magna cum laude from Liberty University with a degree in Business Management.
• Ed Stetzer. Also serving as Executive Director of the Wheaton College Billy Graham Center, Ed Stetzer is a dean and professor at Wheaton College. He is a contributing editor for Christianity Today and a columnist for Outreach Magazine. He earned a master’s degree from Liberty University’s School of Divinity.
• Penny Nance. Named by the Christian Post as one of the top four most powerful pro-life female voices, Penny Nance is the CEO and president of Concerned Women for America (CWA), an authority on cultural, children’s, and women’s issues. She graduated from Liberty University with a degree in Journalism.
• Nick Foles. Born in Austin, Texas, Nick Foles is a football quarterback playing for the Chicago Bears of the National Football League (NFL). While playing college football for the University of Arizona in 2012, he was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles. He earned his online degree in Divinity from Liberty University in 2018.
• Seth Curry. A former basketball player for the Liberty Flames, the men’s basketball team of Liberty University, Seth Curry is a professional basketball player for the Philadelphia 76ers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He attended Liberty University for one year before transferring to Duke University.
• Terry Fator. Ventriloquist Terry Fator won season two of America’s Got Talent. The following year, he signed a $100 million five-year contract as the headliner at the Mirage hotel and casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. He attended Liberty University for a year and earned a degree in Art and Drama elsewhere.
• TobyMac. Born Kevin Michael McKeehan, TobyMac has won the American Music Award for Favorite Contemporary Inspirational Artist in 2012, among many others. While enrolled at Liberty University in the mid-1980s, he formed DC Talk, a Christian rock and rap trio, together with Michael Tait, a contemporary Christian music artist.

Relate Article: Is Liberty University Respected by Employers?

How Does Liberty University Fare Compared to Others?

Liberty University, in terms of certain aspects, is better than most other US colleges and universities. This is especially true when compared with schools that also offer both traditional and online programs. In some aspects, alas, Liberty University is not as impressive as some other institutions.

Prior to sending an application to a school, it’s a must to carefully weigh the pros and cons of attending it. Likewise, it’s a good idea to compare it with others, in particular the ones it has similarities with.

To help you come up with a decision, let’s quickly see how Liberty University fares against some schools:

• Liberty University vs. Capella University. Both Liberty University and Capella University are regionally accredited institutions that offer traditional and online programs. However, unlike Liberty University, Capella University is a for-profit school, which means that it’s more oriented to generate profit and revenues.
• Liberty University vs. Strayer University. Liberty University is regionally accredited by the regional accrediting agency, SACSCOC. On the other hand, Strayer University has institutional accreditation only, and it’s given by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Still, this makes Strayer University legit and respected.
• Liberty University vs. Purdue University Global. Besides online programs, Liberty University also offers traditional degrees that students may earn by stepping foot on its campus. In contrast, Purdue University Global , which is regionally accredited like Liberty University, offers programs via the internet only.
• Liberty University vs. Southern New Hampshire University. Liberty University and SNHU have a lot of things in common. For instance, they are both regionally accredited and offer traditional and online programs. However, SNHU has a much higher acceptance rate than Liberty University — 92.9% vs. 51%.
• Liberty University vs. LeTourneau University. Like Liberty University, LeTourneau University is a Christian school, too. It also offers programs that can be completed traditionally and online. Ranking-wise, such as in Niche’s 2021 Best Online Colleges in America, LeTourneau tends to rank higher than Liberty University.

Just Before You Apply to Liberty University

Liberty University is far from being a diploma mill . Proof of this is the fact that it’s a regionally accredited liberal arts school. It’s also not a for-profit school — it’s a non-profit private Christian institution.

Because of this, you can have peace of mind that the degree you will earn from Liberty University online (or in the traditional manner) will be respected and seen as legitimate by future employers. And since it has regional accreditation, credits you will earn from it will be accepted at many other regionally accredited schools.

I graduated with BA in Nursing and $36,000 in student loan debt from the UCF. After a decade in the workforce, I went back to school to obtain my MBA from UMGC.

Similar Posts

Is the University of Chicago Safe?

Is the University of Miami a Good School?

Is Grand Canyon University a Good School?

Northwestern University: Secrets Uncovered in College Tour

Is Duke as Good As an Ivy League? A Comparison You Won’t Want to Miss!

Is Pace University a Good School?

Get the Reddit app

The Liberty University subreddit. Go Flames!

question for lu scholarship recipients

hey! prospective student here…

has anyone gotten the full tuition merit scholarship? i’m working towards a 1540 sat score to earn it. do you pay a lot of other money outside of tuition?

By continuing, you agree to our User Agreement and acknowledge that you understand the Privacy Policy .

Enter the 6-digit code from your authenticator app

You’ve set up two-factor authentication for this account.

Enter a 6-digit backup code

Create your username and password.

Reddit is anonymous, so your username is what you’ll go by here. Choose wisely—because once you get a name, you can’t change it.

Reset your password

Enter your email address or username and we’ll send you a link to reset your password

Check your inbox

An email with a link to reset your password was sent to the email address associated with your account

Choose a Reddit account to continue

Course Catalog | Liberty University

Admissions requirements matrix, master’s degree programs.

Please visit Master of Fine Arts in Digital Media Production (M.F.A.) < Liberty University for details.

Please visit Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design (M.F.A.) < Liberty University for details.

Please visit Master of Fine Arts in Studio Arts (M.F.A.) < Liberty University for details.

The GRE is required only for students admitted on Caution.

This program contains some online courses where a portion is completed on campus.

Important Notes:

• R = Resident Format; O = Online Format
• Y = Yes; N = No
• TOEFL is required, if applicable
• Resident students are required to submit the “Personal Information Questionnaire” ( /media/1238/FRM_Personal_Information.pdf )
• School of Law – Admissions requirements for the J.D. Program are published in the School of Law Roadbook available online at  http://www.liberty.edu/law/law-school-admissions/ .
•   College of Osteopathic Medicine – Admissions requirements for the D.O. program are published in the LUCOM Catalog available online at http://www.liberty.edu/lucom/index.cfm?PID=28013 .

Post-Master’s and Doctoral Degree Programs

This program contains some online courses where a portion is completed on campus

Contact information for two recommendations may be requested as an additional requirement on a case-by-case basis.

There is not space on this document for a complete listing of the admission requirements. The complete list appears in the School of Nursing section of this Catalog.

This program includes intensives and online courses.

Applicants with Graduate GPA's of 2.80 to 2.99 are appeal-eligible.

Applicants with extensive experience in the field may request to have the GRE waived.

• School of Law – Admissions requirements for the J.D. program are published in the School of Law Roadbook available online at http://www.liberty.edu/law/law-school-admissions/ .
• College of Osteopathic Medicine – Admissions requirements for the D.O. program are published in the LUCOM Catalog available online at http://www.liberty.edu/lucom/index.cfm?PID=28013 .

Print Options

Send Page to Printer

Print this page.

Download Page (PDF)

The PDF will include all information unique to this page.

Liberty University 2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog

A PDF of the entire 2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog.

Liberty University 2024-2025 Graduate Catalog

A PDF of the entire 2024-2025 Graduate Catalog.

Liberty University 2024-2025 College of Osteopathic Medicine

A PDF of the entire 2024-2025 College of Osteopathic Medicine Catalog.

Pardon Our Interruption

As you were browsing something about your browser made us think you were a bot. There are a few reasons this might happen:

• You've disabled JavaScript in your web browser.
• You're a power user moving through this website with super-human speed.
• You've disabled cookies in your web browser.
• A third-party browser plugin, such as Ghostery or NoScript, is preventing JavaScript from running. Additional information is available in this support article .

To regain access, please make sure that cookies and JavaScript are enabled before reloading the page.

• Liberty Online
• Residential
• Request More Information
• (434) 582-2000
• Academic Calendar
• Bachelor’s Degrees
• Master’s Degrees
• Postgraduate Degrees
• Doctoral Degrees
• Associate Degrees
• Certificate Programs
• Degree Minors
• Registrar’s Office
• Degree Completion Plans (DCPs)
• Course Catalog
• Policy Directory
• Academic Support (CASAS)
• LU Bookstore
• Research at Liberty
• Eagle Scholars Program
• Honors Scholars
• Quiz Bowl Team
• Debate Team
• Student Travel
• Liberty University Online Academy (K-12)
• Tuition & Costs
• Net Price Calculator
• Student Financial Services
• Scholarships
• Undergraduate
• International
• Apply for LU Online
• Online Admissions
• Online Tuition & Fees
• Military Students
• School of Law
• Osteopathic Medicine
• Convocation
• Campus Community
• LU Serve Now
• Liberty Worship Collective
• Office of Spiritual Development
• Online Engagement
• LU Shepherd
• Doctrinal Statement
• Mission Statement
• Residence Life
• Student Government
• Student Clubs
• Conduct Code & Appeals
• Health & Wellness
• Student Affairs Offices
• Campus Recreation
• LaHaye Rec & Fit
• Intramural Sports
• Hydaway Outdoor Center
• Snowflex Centre
• Student Activities
• Club Sports
• LaHaye Ice Center
• ID & Campus Services
• Dining Services
• Parents & Families
• Commuter Students
• International Students
• Graduate Students
• Disability Support
• NCAA Sports
• Flames Club
• Varsity Club
• Williams Stadium
• Vines Center
• Liberty Baseball Stadium
• Kamphuis Field
• Ticket Information
• Flames Merchandise
• LU Quick Facts
• News & Events
• Virtual Tour
• History of Liberty
• Contact Liberty
• Visit Liberty
• Give to Liberty

Science students embrace research opportunities through annual ASSURE program

Search news archives, filter news articles.

Additional Navigation

August 20, 2024 : By Ryan Klinker - Office of Communications & Public Engagement

Taking six weeks out of their summer break, students and faculty from Liberty University’s Department of Biology & Chemistry engaged in research as part of the department’s ASSURE program, an annual summer intensive that introduces many students to the practices and skills of research.

ASSURE stands for Acquiring Skills for Students Underrepresented in Research Experience and includes students from historically underrepresented demographic groups in the sciences (such as women, some ethnic groups, and first-generation college students). Groups of two to three undergraduate students are assigned to a professor for six weeks to conduct new or existing studies and receive valuable mentoring.

“The ASSURE program is intentionally designed to enrich our students’ education experience, and for many in the program, this is their first venture into research,” said Dr. Heidi DiFrancesca, dean of the School of Health Sciences . “Throughout this experience, students are reinforcing their understanding of the content they’ve been learning in the classroom while also developing an indispensable skill set — critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, and communication — that will help them to be successful both during their time here at LU and in their chosen professions.”

This summer marked the fourth year of the program, consisting of 24 students (21 undergraduate and three graduate) with 10 faculty members. The groups conducted research across a wide variety of disciplines, including biology, ecology, organic chemistry, forensics, anatomy, and more.

Nathaniel Williams, a junior biomedical sciences student, worked under Professor of Chemistry Dr. Alan Fulp to explore the body’s endocannabinoid system, a cell-signaling system that regulates and balances many bodily functions. His group’s research focused on developing a molecular compound that can combat inhibitors in the system and reduce inflammation and pain.

“We wanted to see how far we could take things and how much we could help people by activating these receptors,” Williams said. “There are natural chemicals in the eyes that are constantly being broken down by inhibitors, so we wanted to see if we could stop the inhibitors and let the chemicals do what they need to do and activate the receptors.”

“I’d love to have published research before I go, and I love chemistry, and the ASSURE program allowed me to work toward that. I know the professors here very well, and they’re very friendly, and I wanted to take advantage of this unique opportunity that I otherwise wouldn’t have had. It was a great six weeks.”

Senior forensic science student Alyssa Spillar had spent part of the spring semester working under Director of Forensic Science Dr. J. Thomas McClintock and Instructor of Biology Kristin Mossé but said the summer research she did through ASSURE was a new, exciting experience. Spillar was able to continue with DNA research from the historical Hillsman House in Rice, Va., where McClintock and students have been studying blood samples since 2018 to corroborate that the building served as a Union field hospital during the last major Civil War battle fought in Virginia. A table once used in the house was recently acquired, presenting the group with more samples to study.

“The goal of the project was to generate DNA profiles from the presumably 160-year-old bloodstains on the table using typical DNA lab procedure,” Spillar said.

She said being involved in the project through the summer brought additional experiences she didn’t have in the spring.

“I applied to the ASSURE program because I love research and the more research experience I can get, the better. I really loved being in a lab or doing research for eight hours a day. It was such an immersive experience.”

ASSURE is funded by a grant from Liberty’s  Office of Sponsored Programs & Research and supported by the Office of the Provost.

“The Office of Sponsored Programs & Research is passionate about supporting student research at Liberty University,” grants administrator Emily Stevens said. “As a Christian university, we want to empower students to grow into credible investigators and experts in their fields by supporting the pursuit of knowledge.”

Related Posts

LUCOM holds Donor Memorial Ceremony to thank families for their loved one’s gift toward training future physicians

From the NFL to rugby and hometown baseball, sport management interns enjoy wide range of work

School of Law vice dean inspires students by sharing ‘God’s good story’ through family’s tragedy