Butler University campus
Butler University logo

Butler University

Indianapolis, IN · Private · 4,317 students

Located just a half-hour from Indianapolis International Airport, the campus integrates with the vibrant 16th largest city in the U.S.

Acceptance rate

85.1%

SAT (mid 50%)

1160–1350

Avg net price

$36,041

after aid

Next deadline

Nov 1

EA

Testing

Optional

2026 cycle

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the Butler University admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

Butler University admitted 85.1% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That means most students who apply get in. Your job is to meet the requirements and apply on time.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1160–1350 on the SAT and 26–31 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 Butler University actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Hands-on, Future-Focused Academics

We promise to tie your coursework together with relevant hands-on learning, resulting in an agile mind engaged in the world and prepared for the jobs of tomorrow.

Academics are rooted in a core liberal arts curriculum, offering over 100 majors and minors, including an Exploratory Studies pathway.

  • Undergraduate MajorsMore than 100 academic majors
  • Undergraduate MinorsAvailable options
  • Graduate ProgramsProfessional programs

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Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • Next deadlineNovember 1, 2026 (EA)
  • Regular decisionFebruary 1, 2027
  • TestingOptional (2026 cycle)
  • Recommendations0 letters
  • Personal essayRequired
  • ApplicationCommon App

Verified from butler.edu.

The essays

Here are the supplemental essay prompts.

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

  • Briefly describe your reasons for selecting your chosen academic major(s) and how you believe Butler will help you achieve your related career goals upon graduation.

    Up to 100 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from butler.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $65,970. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $36,041.

The Office of Financial Aid guides students through the process, with 96 percent of 2024, 2025 first-year students receiving gift aid.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $77,235.

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

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Finance and Financial Management Services10% of degrees
  • Marketing8% of degrees
  • Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication8% of degrees
  • Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General5% of degrees
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods5% of degrees
  • Biology, General4% of degrees

Campus life

Here’s the feel of the place.

“Collaborate with faculty on research, engage in hands-on learning, then explore Indianapolis's cultural scene, a Tuesday here.”

Indianapolis offers big-time sports, world-class culture, and rich professional opportunities that become part of your Butler experience.

EntrepreneurialCity-integratedCollaborative

Quick answers

What do people ask about Butler University?

Is Butler University test-optional?
For the 2026 application cycle, standardized testing at Butler University is optional.
How hard is it to get into Butler University?
Very hard. Butler University admits 85.1% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1160 to 1350 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
When is the Butler University application deadline?
The next deadline is November 1, 2026 (EA). Regular Decision closes February 1, 2027.
How much does Butler University cost?
The list price is about $65,970. After aid, families pay $36,041 on average.
Is Butler University worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $77,235 ten years after enrolling. 80% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.

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Ask Spike anything about Butler University.

Spike answers from Butler University’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.