Bucknell University

Bucknell University admitted 28.9% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That’s selective. Fewer than half of the students who apply get in.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1310–1470 on the SAT and 30–33 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what Bucknell University actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

Bucknell's unique approach to the liberal arts creates limitless opportunities for interdisciplinary learning across our three colleges.

The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary learning across its College of Arts & Sciences, College of Engineering, and Freeman College of Management.

• College of Arts & SciencesLiberal arts, diverse fields
• College of EngineeringProblem-solving, create change
• Freeman College of ManagementCollaboration, better world

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• TestingOptional (2027 cycle)

Verified from bucknell.edu.

The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.

• Please explain your interest in your first-choice major/undecided status and your second-choice major, should you opt to list one.

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from bucknell.edu.

The sticker price is about $83,756. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $40,766.

More than half of Bucknell students receive financial assistance, which can include Bucknell need-based grants, federal grants, state grants, federal work-study, and federal subsidized student loans.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $93,807.

Verified from bucknell.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

• Economics11% of degrees
• Political Science and Government8% of degrees
• Biology, General7% of degrees
• Psychology, General7% of degrees
• Accounting and Related Services7% of degrees
• Mechanical Engineering4% of degrees

“Combine your passions, collaborate with peers, and discover new truths on a campus that encourages exploration.”

Explore the innovative spaces and beautiful surroundings that make our historic campus unique.

Is Bucknell University test-optional?

For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at Bucknell University is optional.

How hard is it to get into Bucknell University?

Very hard. Bucknell University admits 28.9% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1310 to 1470 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.

How much does Bucknell University cost?

The list price is about $83,756. After aid, families pay $40,766 on average.

Is Bucknell University worth it?

Graduates earn a median of $93,807 ten years after enrolling. 86% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.