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University of Lynchburg

Accept Rate
82.19%
Grad Rate
60.8%
Enrollment
1,599
Avg SAT
1100
Tuition
$35,540
Median Salary
$56,380
Overall Grade
C
C+
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
B+
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

University of Lynchburg feels like a close-knit, supportive community where faculty know you by name and classmates become family. The hilltop campus overlooks the James River, blending historic brick buildings with a modern, inclusive spirit. It’s a place where you’re encouraged to explore your faith, values, and leadership potential in a personal, hands-on environment.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

82.19%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 110075th Pctl
9801230
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

ACT data not available

Admissions Tips

["Highlight your involvement in service, leadership, or athletics in your application—Lynchburg values character and community engagement.","Consider applying test-optional if your SAT/ACT scores don’t reflect your strengths; the school is holistic in review.","Connect with admissions early and visit campus; demonstrated interest can work in your favor."]

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

🎯

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1100
40080012001600
School range: 9801230

⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

Academic strengths include robust programs in biology, business, and health professions, often tied to real-world experiences and internships. Small class sizes foster accessible, personalized teaching from professors rather than TAs. Students have opportunities for undergraduate research, especially in the sciences, and can engage in experiential learning through clinicals, practicums, and projects.

Popular Majors

Biology & Biomedical
16.7%
Business & Marketing
14.7%
Social Sciences
14.4%
Health Professions
13.8%
Psychology
5.8%
Visual & Performing Arts
5.5%
Education
5.5%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
4.9%
Communications
4.6%
Mathematics & Statistics
2.9%
History
2.6%
Natural Resources
2.6%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

60.8%
Graduation Rate
75.8%
Retention Rate
1,599
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$35,540
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$20,187
After financial aid
Total Cost
$48,300
Cost of attendance/year
27.3%
Receive Pell Grants
58%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Lynchburg

Students enjoy Lynchburg’s outdoor scene—hiking, biking, and kayaking along the James River and nearby Blue Ridge foothills. Downtown offers coffee shops, live music, art galleries, and food trucks, while the campus hosts events, clubs, and Division III athletics. Weekend trips to Charlottesville or Richmond are easy for bigger concerts and experiences.

Local Rent Check

$966 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Lynchburg
Explore Lynchburg

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$142,160
$0Est. 4 Years: $142,160

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($56,380):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

Campus is generally considered safe with proactive security measures, including 24/7 patrols and well-lit pathways. Lynchburg is a mid-sized city with typical urban precautions; students should stay aware of surroundings, especially off-campus.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Personalized attention with small classes and accessible professors.
  • Strong programs in biology and health professions with clinical and research opportunities.
  • Beautiful hilltop campus with outdoor recreation along the James River.
  • Test-optional admissions and holistic review.

Cons

  • Graduation rate (61%) is below the national average, so student support and persistence matter.
  • Lynchburg’s job market is smaller than major metros; some students look to nearby cities for top internships.
  • Limited brand recognition outside the region can require proactive networking.

Notable Alumni

Quincy Wilson
Olympic gold medalist in track & field and professional athlete.
Shannon Bahrke
U.S. Olympic freestyle skier and media personality.
Mikey Saylor
Former NFL player and Flames football standout.

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s known for close-knit, values-centered education and strong programs in biology, health professions, business, and the arts. The university emphasizes experiential learning, leadership, and service, with opportunities for research and clinical experiences. Its hilltop campus and community focus create a distinctive, personal college experience.

No, it’s moderately selective with an acceptance rate of about 82%. The average SAT is around 1100, and admissions are holistic, considering essays, recommendations, and involvement. Test-optional policies allow applicants to highlight strengths beyond standardized exams.

Campus life is community-oriented with a mix of clubs, Division III athletics, and events that foster connection. Students enjoy outdoor activities along the James River and easy access to downtown Lynchburg’s restaurants and arts scene. Residence life and campus ministries contribute to a supportive, values-focused environment.

For many students, yes—especially when aid reduces the net price toward the $20K average. The ROI is reasonable given median 10-year earnings around $56K and the strength of health and business pipelines. Careful major choice, internships, and leveraging alumni networks can boost returns.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Centra Health Liberty University State Farm Bank of America Lynchburg City Schools
Smart Start Score
61

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 1,991
  • In-State Tuition $35,540
  • Zip Code 24501

Gender Ratio

♂ 38.1% ♀ 61.9%

The Money Talk

At roughly $35.5K tuition, the sticker price is typical for private colleges, but the average net price of about $20K reflects aid and scholarships. With 10-year median earnings around $56K and a solid Pell Grant rate (27%), the value is reasonable if you leverage aid and internships in high-demand fields like health and business. For many students, the combination of personalized education and career preparation can justify the investment.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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📍 Campus Location

📅 Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1–15
Regular Decision Jan 1–15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines →

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

🧮 Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $35,540
Housing (12 mo) $11,592
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $54,332
With avg financial aid:
$20,187/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.