Cairn University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
At Cairn, test-optional really appears to shape behavior: only 7% of students submitted SAT scores. With an 88% acceptance rate, focus on presenting consistent grades and a clear fit; submit an SAT only if it strengthens your application, ideally near or above 1190.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Cairn University facts and stats
Cairn University enrolls 846 undergraduates in a suburban campus setting. Cairn has a 77% freshman retention rate, above the national average of roughly 70%. Its 6-year graduation rate is 60%, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 7.3:1.
Langhorne, PA
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Key Cairn University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
—
Early Action
Not offered
Early Decision
Not offered
Priority Deadline
—
Financial Aid Priority
March 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
Because Cairn is test-optional, follow this timeline only if you plan to submit scores: take your first SAT or ACT by the spring of junior year, then use the summer before senior year and the fall for retakes that could improve a superscore. Cairn does not offer Early Decision or Early Action, so confirm the Regular Decision deadline before counting on a late fall retake.
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What you'll actually pay
Cairn is a private not-for-profit, so the same rate applies to all students, with tuition and fees at $33,659. About 82% of students receive aid, and the average merit award is $17,037. Submit the FAFSA by the March 1 priority deadline to be considered for aid.
Cairn’s estimated cost of attendance is about $46,412 for tuition, fees, room, and board. Financial aid is common, with 82% of students receiving aid and an average aid package of $24,301. Merit awards average $17,037, which can substantially reduce the listed price for qualifying students. Graduates leave with an average debt of $35,717.
Student life at Cairn University
79% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: No guarantee
No fraternity or sorority life on campus.
Similar schools
Bryn Athyn College of the New Church
Bryn Athyn, PAAcceptance rate: 82.9%
Albright College
Reading, PAAcceptance rate: 76.3%
Allegheny College
Meadville, PAAcceptance rate: 54.5%
SAT: 1165–1355
ACT: 24–30
DeSales University
Center Valley, PAAcceptance rate: 77.1%
SAT: 1100–1240
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