Aurora University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
Aurora’s 80.8% admit rate means a strong, consistent transcript matters more than chasing a perfect test score. With an average entering GPA of 3.56, keep your grades steady; if you submit testing, aim near 1160 SAT or 29 ACT so the score clearly adds value.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Aurora University facts and stats
Aurora University enrolls about 4,107 undergraduates in a suburban campus setting. Aurora has a 77% freshman retention rate, which is above the national average of roughly 70%. Its 6-year graduation rate is 60%, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 18.6:1.
Aurora, IL
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Key Aurora University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
—
Early Action
Not offered
Early Decision
Not offered
Priority Deadline
—
Financial Aid Priority
October 1
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
Aurora is test-optional, so use this testing plan only if you choose to submit scores: take your first SAT or ACT by the spring of junior year, then save the summer before senior year and the fall for superscore-focused retakes. Since Aurora does not offer Early Decision or Early Action and its listed aid deadlines do not require test scores, make your last fall retake the one that will send scores in time for the Regular Decision deadline.
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What you'll actually pay
Aurora is a private not-for-profit, so the same $29,170 tuition and fees rate applies to all students. With 81% of students receiving aid and an average merit award of $15,326, scholarships can meaningfully lower costs. Submit the FAFSA by the October 1 priority deadline.
Aurora University's direct cost for tuition, fees, room, and board is about $42,750 before aid. Financial aid is common, with 81% of students receiving aid and an average package of $31,013, which can substantially reduce the billed price. Merit awards average $15,326, with named scholarships from $10,000 to $19,000 and a Dunham Scholars award for students with a 3.50+ GPA. Graduates leave with an average debt of $24,250.
Student life at Aurora University
17% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: No guarantee
Fraternities and sororities are active on campus. 1% of women join sororities.
Similar schools
American Islamic College
Chicago, ILAcceptance rate: 100%
Augustana College
Rock Island, ILAcceptance rate: 62.8%
SAT: 1040–1260
ACT: 21–29
Southwestern Illinois College
Belleville, ILAcceptance rate: 100%
Blackburn College
Carlinville, ILAcceptance rate: 63.2%
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