Harding University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
At Harding, your bigger opportunity may be merit aid, not just admission. A qualifying score starts at ACT 18 or SAT 960 for $7,000 to $11,000, while a 31 ACT or 1390 SAT with a 3.5 GPA can put the Trustee Scholar Award in reach.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Harding University facts and stats
Harding University enrolls 3,536 undergraduates in a small-town campus setting. Harding has an 86% freshman retention rate, above the national average of roughly 70%. Its 6-year graduation rate is 69%, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 13:1.
Searcy, AR
How do your scores compare at Harding?
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Key Harding University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
—
Early Action
Not offered
Early Decision
Offered
Priority Deadline
—
Financial Aid Priority
December 15
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 Harding, take your first SAT or ACT by spring of junior year, then use summer and fall of senior year for retakes that could improve your score. For Harding’s score-based scholarships and the December 15 financial aid priority deadline, plan on the November SAT or October ACT as the last fall retake likely to arrive in time.
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What you'll actually pay
Harding is a private not-for-profit, so the same tuition and fees rate applies to all students. Tuition and fees are $25,962, and 60% of students receive aid, with an average merit award of $12,175. Submit the FAFSA by the December 15 priority deadline.
Harding’s listed tuition, fees, room, and board total about $34,972 before aid. About 60% of students receive financial aid, with an average package of $15,484. Merit awards average $12,175, with scholarships starting at SAT 960 or ACT 18 and GPA 2.50, and higher awards tied to SAT 1390 or ACT 31 and GPA 3.50. Graduates leave with an average debt of $31,659.
Student life at Harding University
75% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: Guaranteed
Fraternities and sororities are active on campus.
Similar schools
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Jonesboro, ARAcceptance rate: 79.6%
SAT: 1010–1180
ACT: 18–24
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