Non-Profit Private
Accredited · Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
Irvine, California
59.9% Acceptance Rate
Concordia University-Irvine — Admission Snapshot 2026
A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application
59.9%Acceptance Rate
3.61Avg GPA
1145Avg SAT
$56,500Annual Cost
$65,083Grad Salary
23%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
59.9%
Avg GPA
3.61
Avg SAT
1145
Selectivity
Somewhat Selective
Institution Type
Non-Profit Private
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
SAT Middle 50%
1105–1175
Need-Based Aid
23% receive Pell
Concordia University Irvine, established in 1976 in Orange County, California, is a private Lutheran liberal arts university ranked among the top regional universities in the West by U.S. News. CUI offers 50+ programs through five schools, with strengths in nursing, business, and theology. The university's 70-acre campus features the state-of-the-art Center for Applied Learning and the new Borland-Manske Center that bridges arts and sciences. CUI maintains a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio and integrates faith and learning through its 'Christ-Centered' mission.
CUI's location in affluent Irvine provides internship opportunities with Fortune 500 companies and tech firms. The Eagles compete in NCAA Division II athletics in the PacWest Conference. The university's distinctive Great Books Honors Program and STEM programs attract high-achieving students. CUI's Center for American Freedom houses important historical documents, while its theatre program stages professional-quality productions. The campus's Spanish Renaissance architecture and ocean views create a distinctive Southern California learning environment.
Concordia University-Irvine Acceptance Rate
Concordia University-Irvine is somewhat selective in its admission process. The acceptance rate of Concordia University-Irvine is 59.9%. This means that 60 out of every 100 applicants get admitted.
Admissions Guidelines
- Broad Evaluation: Personal growth and vocational goals are considered alongside grades.
- Flexible Standards: Strengths in extracurriculars can often balance an average GPA.
Selectivity at a Glance
Somewhat Selective
Selectivity scale: Somewhat Selective — 59.9% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)
Recommended Academic Profile
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.61 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.41 – 3.60
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 3.16
Secondary Reach
Requires Contextual Support
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Concordia University Irvine GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at Concordia University Irvine is 3.61. Concordia University Irvine is highly selective.
Mostly A's with a few B's will keep you competitive. Taking AP/IB courses related to your field will improve your chances.
Note: This is an unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with AP or IB courses will typically have a weighted GPA of 3.81-4.01 for this same academic profile.If your GPA is between 3.31 and 3.61, a strong SAT or ACT score is recommended.
Concordia University Irvine GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Selective; solid academic performance is expected.
Recommended Strategy: Focus on a Strong 'Spike' in extracurriculars or research.
Admissions at Concordia University Irvine utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.61, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.61 – 4.00
Target/Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.41 – 3.60
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
3.21 – 3.40
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 3.20
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At Concordia University Irvine, a slightly lower GPA (e.g., 3.8) in a transcript featuring multiple AP or IB courses is often prioritized over a 4.0 in a standard curriculum.
- The Upward Trend: If your early high school grades were lower, an upward trajectory in 11th and 12th grade demonstrates Academic Resilience.
Data Source: Verified via IPEDS and latest Common Data Set (CDS). Reviewed by our academic board led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Check Your Admission Chances at Concordia University Irvine
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on Concordia University-Irvine's verified institutional data
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Calculating Profile...
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Your SAT Score 1200
Your Unweighted GPA 3.00
✅ Verified Data: Institutional records for 2026.
Calculated via College Portal's Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards. Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.
Concordia University-Irvine (Concordia University Irvine) Test Requirements
In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2026 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.
Can I Get Into Concordia University Irvine Without SAT or ACT?
Concordia University-Irvine does not require admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process and does not recommend that students provide these scores. But it is better to submit the test score if you have performed well in the test. It gives an extra opportunity to showcase your skills and competencies and hence will improve your chances of admission. It is advisable to appear multiple times in the test unless you score well above the average SAT / ACT score of the admitted students. Normally, students may appear in the test 2 to 3 times to improve their scores. But if your score is not up to the mark and is less than the national or state average, then it is better not to submit the score as it will impact negatively.
Concordia University-Irvine Average SAT Score: 1145
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Concordia University-Irvine is 1145 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1145 — Less Competitive
This score makes it less competitive for SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 1145 on the SAT.
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1175 SAT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Concordia University-Irvine allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 1105, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at Concordia University Irvine. Retaking the test multiple times is completely normal — most competitive applicants take the SAT two or three times to achieve their best score. There is no official limit on attempts.
SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | - | - | - |
| SAT Reading | - | - | - |
| SAT Composite | 1145 | 1105 | 1175 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1105 then you are below most of the admitted students at Concordia University Irvine and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1175 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students.
View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1150
Can I get into Concordia University-Irvine (Concordia University Irvine) with a 1200 SAT?
With a 1200 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Concordia University-Irvine (Concordia University Irvine) are good but the admission staff at Concordia University Irvine tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for Concordia University Irvine
Accessible Strategy: Academic Foundation
Concordia University Irvine is accessible to students who show core competency. The focus should be on proving readiness for college-level work and securing financial aid.
Consistency over Perfection
Prove you can handle a college curriculum by maintaining a steady or upward GPA trend. One or two lower grades won't be a dealbreaker if you've improved since.
Placement Validation
Use the SAT or ACT to exempt yourself from non-credit remedial courses. A solid score here saves you time and tuition money once you enroll.
Practical Leadership
Highlight work experience, family responsibilities, or community service. These schools value 'grit' and real-world maturity.
FAFSA & Deadlines
At schools with higher acceptance rates, the 'win' is financial. Submit your FAFSA and local scholarship apps as early as possible to maximize your aid package.
Next Step: Review the specific 'Pre-Professional' tracks at Concordia University Irvine to ensure your high school electives align with your intended major.
Concordia University Irvine Profile
Full Name
Concordia University-Irvine (Concordia University Irvine)
City
Irvine
State
California
ZIP Code
92612-3203
Type
Non-Profit Private
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission (WASCSR)
Is a Concordia University Irvine Degree Worth It?
Getting into Concordia University Irvine can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. Concordia University Irvine offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision.
Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at Concordia University Irvine is $79,900 and the graduate unemployment rate is 3.43%.
How much does a degree from Concordia University Irvine Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at Concordia University-Irvine is $56,500. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Concordia University-Irvine is much less than this.
23% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 50.9 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Concordia University Irvine and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Concordia University-Irvine, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist Concordia University Irvine as your choice in the form.
How much does a Concordia University Irvine Graduate earn?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $65,083. An average Concordia University Irvine graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4–6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is $40,595.
Compare Similar Colleges
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Concordia University-Irvine. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of South Alabama | Mobile, AL | 1119 | 23 |
| Tuskegee University | Tuskegee, AL | 1121 | 22 |
| Grand Canyon University | Phoenix, AZ | 1095 | 22 |
| Arkansas State University | Jonesboro, AR | 1119 | 22 |
| University of Central Arkansas | Conway, AR | 1117 | 22 |
| University of La Verne | La Verne, CA | 1116 | 22 |
| University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus | Denver, CO | 1119 | 24 |
| Western Colorado University | Gunnison, CO | 1130 | 25 |
| University of Saint Joseph | West Hartford, CT | 1100 | NA |
| Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University | Tallahassee, FL | 1100 | 22 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Concordia University-Irvine. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Huntingdon College | Montgomery, AL | 1148 | 23 |
| Azusa Pacific University | Azusa, CA | 1155 | 22 |
| University of Colorado Colorado Springs | Colorado Springs, CO | 1140 | 25 |
| Lynn University | Boca Raton, FL | 1136 | 25 |
| Florida International University | Miami, FL | 1154 | 23 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Concordia University-Irvine. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birmingham-Southern College | Birmingham, AL | 1197 | 24 |
| University of Mobile | Mobile, AL | 1220 | 24 |
| Samford University | Birmingham, AL | 1203 | 26 |
| Harding University | Searcy, AR | 1187 | 25 |
| John Brown University | Siloam Springs, AR | 1222 | 26 |
Degree Programs at Concordia University Irvine
Bachelor Degree Programs
Masters Degree Programs
Full list of all degree programs offered by Concordia University-Irvine →
Frequently Asked Questions About Concordia University Irvine Admissions
Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $65,083 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.
The tuition fee at this university is quite high, approximately $56,500 or more per year, so it is important to consider additional funding options.
23.0% of students receive a Pell Grant here, which is below the national average of around 35%. This institution serves a higher proportion of higher-income students. Merit-based scholarships may still be available regardless of financial need — check the official financial aid page of the institute for details.
The acceptance rate of Concordia University-Irvine is 59.9% which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
The average GPA of admitted students is 3.61. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
While there is no single cutoff that guarantees a rejection, admission staff uses your GPA to determine if you are a best fit. If you have at least a 3.31, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.31, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
If your GPA is 3.21 or less, it may make admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays. But this does not mean that you must not apply, or you do not have any chances. With additional AP courses, you can increase your chances even with this GPA.
While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.61, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Admission to Concordia University-Irvine is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1145 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1105–1175.
Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.