Grand Canyon University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
At GCU, admission is relatively accessible, so your strategy should focus on whether the academic environment and support system fit your goals. Because the school is test-optional and very few students submit scores, you do not need a score to be considered, but an ACT around 22 can be a useful benchmark if you choose to submit.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Grand Canyon University facts and stats
Grand Canyon University enrolls 75,936 undergraduate students in an urban campus setting. GCU has a 72% freshman retention rate, slightly above the national average of roughly 70%. Its 6-year graduation rate is 43%, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 20:1.
Phoenix, AZ
How do your scores compare at GCU?
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Key Grand Canyon University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
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Early Action
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Early Decision
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Priority Deadline
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Coming soon
Test dates
August 22, 2026
Registration deadline: August 7, 2026
September 12, 2026
Registration deadline: August 28, 2026
October 3, 2026
Registration deadline: September 18, 2026
September 19, 2026
Registration deadline: August 14, 2026
October 17, 2026
Registration deadline: September 11, 2026
December 12, 2026
Registration deadline: November 6, 2026
If you choose to submit scores to test-optional GCU, plan to take your first SAT or ACT by the spring of junior year, then use the summer before senior year and fall for retakes. Because GCU uses rolling admission rather than a fixed early deadline, make your final fall retake before you submit your application so scores can arrive in time.
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What you'll actually pay
GCU is a private for-profit university with tuition and fees of $17,850. About 47% of students receive financial aid, while the reported average merit award is $0.
At Grand Canyon University, tuition, fees, room and board total about $29,550 per year before personal expenses. About 47% of students receive financial aid, and the average aid package is $3,350. Many students should plan for a substantial remaining cost, though each net price depends on financial need and other expenses.
Student life at Grand Canyon University
40% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: No guarantee
No fraternity or sorority life on campus.
Similar schools
Carrington College - Mesa
Mesa, AZAcceptance rate: 100%
Carrington College - Phoenix
Phoenix, AZAcceptance rate: 100%
Acceptance rate: 89.9%
Arizona State University at the West campus
Phoenix, AZSAT: 1050–1250
ACT: 19–25
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