Santa Clara University Admission Chances
Quick answer
Santa Clara University in Santa Clara, CA admits about 48% of applicants (admitted students score 1350–1490 on the SAT, middle 50%), making it a target for students near its published range for most students. Your real odds depend on your GPA, test scores, and intended major — estimate them free in about 15 seconds below.
Key facts
- Acceptance rate
- 48%
- SAT (mid-50%)
- 1350–1490
- Test policy
- Test-optional
- In-state tuition
- $61,293
- Out-of-state tuition
- $61,293
- Avg. net price
- $50,062
- Undergrads
- 6,552
- Setting
- Urban
- Location
- Santa Clara, CA
Is Santa Clara University a reach for you?
Estimated admission chance by applicant profile, from the same engine FalconPrep uses to build your list. Estimates — your real odds depend on your full profile, major, and residency.
| Applicant | SAT / GPA | Verdict | Est. chance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below average | 1150 / 3.3 | Reach | 22% |
| Average | 1300 / 3.6 | Target | 52% |
| Above average | 1400 / 3.8 | Target | 58% |
| Strong | 1520 / 3.9 | Safety | 79% |
Should you apply to Santa Clara University?
- →If your SAT is above 1490 and your GPA is strong (roughly 3.9+), Santa Clara University is a realistic target — apply, and consider an early round if it's your clear first choice.
- →If your SAT falls within its 1350–1490 middle 50%, treat Santa Clara University as a reach worth taking — balance it with solid target and safety schools.
- →If your SAT is below 1350, Santa Clara University is a long-shot reach: apply only if it's a genuine fit, and lead your list with stronger matches.
Weighing fit? Compare Santa Clara University with St Olaf College, Judson University, Rollins College.
Calculate your real chances at Santa Clara University
Enter your GPA and scores — get your estimated admission chance plus a full reach / target / safety list. Free, no account.
Calculate my chances →Or use the free college acceptance calculator for a quick single-school estimate.
Application deadlines at Santa Clara University
Santa Clara University's application deadlines are Early Decision on November 1, Early Decision II on January 7, Early Action on November 1, and Regular Decision on January 7.
Verified against Santa Clara University's admissions site in September 2026. Deadlines change each cycle — confirm before you submit.
Early admission at Santa Clara University
Santa Clara University offers these early-application options. Applying early can boost your odds.
| Early Action | Non-binding — apply early, decide later. A modest edge with no commitment. |
| Early Decision | Binding — you must enroll if admitted. Historically the biggest admit-rate boost; use it on your true first choice. |
| Early Decision II | Binding, later deadline — a second binding shot if your ED school rejects/defers you. |
Santa Clara University admissions FAQ
Can I get into Santa Clara University?
Santa Clara University admits about 48% of applicants, so students near its published GPA and SAT range have a solid chance. Admitted students typically score 1350–1490 on the SAT (middle 50%). Run your numbers in the free chances calculator below to see where you land.
When is the application deadline for Santa Clara University?
Santa Clara University's application deadlines are Early Decision on November 1, Early Decision II on January 7, Early Action on November 1, and Regular Decision on January 7. Verified against Santa Clara University's admissions site in September 2026; deadlines change each cycle, so confirm before you submit.
What are my chances of getting into Santa Clara University?
Your chances of getting into Santa Clara University depend on your GPA, test scores, intended major, and residency. The table above estimates admission chances by applicant profile, and the free calculator gives you a personalized reach / target / safety read in about 15 seconds — no account needed.
Should I apply to Santa Clara University?
Apply to Santa Clara University if your SAT is at or above its 1350–1490 middle-50% range and your GPA is strong — it's a realistic target then. If you're below that range it's a reach: apply only if it's a genuine fit, and balance it with target and safety schools. Estimate your exact odds with the free calculator below.
Is Santa Clara University a reach school?
For many applicants Santa Clara University is a reach-to-target: it admits about 48% of applicants, so strong stats help.
What SAT score do you need for Santa Clara University?
Admitted students at Santa Clara University typically score between 1350 and 1490 on the SAT (the middle 50%). A score above 1490 strengthens your odds.
What is Santa Clara University's acceptance rate?
Santa Clara University accepts approximately 48% of applicants.
Does Santa Clara University offer Early Decision or Early Action?
Santa Clara University offers Early Action, Early Decision and Early Decision II. Early Decision is binding — apply only if it is your clear first choice, as it historically gives the biggest admission boost. Always confirm deadlines on Santa Clara University's admissions site.
Figures are drawn from public data (U.S. Department of Education / IPEDS and college admissions data) and reviewed regularly. Always confirm current numbers and deadlines on Santa Clara University's official admissions site.