Public
Accredited · Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
75.8% Acceptance Rate
The University of Alabama — Admission Snapshot 2026
A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application
75.8%Acceptance Rate
3.76Avg GPA
1287Avg SAT
28Avg ACT
$32,024Annual Cost
$59,221Grad Salary
18%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
75.8%
Avg GPA
3.76
Avg SAT
1287
Avg ACT
28
Selectivity
Inclusive
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
SAT Middle 50%
1170–1400
ACT Middle 50%
24–31
Avg Net Price
$22,150
Need-Based Aid
18% receive Pell
The University of Alabama AL Founded in 1831, The University of Alabama is the state's flagship public research university and the senior campus of the UA System. Ranked among the top 150 national universities by U.S. News, UA is particularly renowned for its law school, business programs, and championship-winning Division I athletics program. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities including the Shelby Hall for engineering and the recently renovated Reese Phifer Hall for communications.\n\nThe university's Greek system is one of the largest in the nation, contributing to a vibrant campus social life. UA leads in renewable energy research and houses the renowned Summersell Center for Southern History. With over 38,000 students, the campus maintains a beautiful blend of historic landmarks like the President's Mansion with modern facilities like the $60 million Student Center.
The University of Alabama Acceptance Rate
The University of Alabama maintains an inclusive admission policy. With an acceptance rate of 75.8%, the institution prioritizes accessibility and opportunity for all qualified students.
Admissions Guidelines
- Inclusive Enrollment: Emphasis is placed on meeting basic eligibility and high school completion.
- Launchpad Policy: Ideal for students looking to build a GPA for future transfer or career certification.
Selectivity at a Glance
Inclusive
Selectivity scale: Inclusive — 75.8% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)
Recommended Academic Profile
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.76 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.56 – 3.75
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 3.31
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.
The University of Alabama Application Deadlines & Admission Dates 2026
The University of Alabama follows a Rolling Admissions policy, meaning applications are reviewed as they arrive and there is no single fixed deadline, though the priority deadline of December 5 is recommended for the best chances of admission and financial aid.
Key Admission Dates
⏳ 138 days left — Rolling (Priority)
Rolling Admissions — Apply Anytime
The University of Alabama reviews applications continuously throughout the year. Seats and scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, so applying early gives you a significant advantage for both admission and financial aid.
Rolling (Priority)
December 5
💡 The scholarship deadline (December 5, 2026) often falls before the regular admission deadline. Submit your application and FAFSA early to be considered for maximum aid.
Deadlines are verified from official institutional sources but may change each cycle. Always confirm final dates on the official website.
The University of Alabama GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at The University of Alabama is 3.76. The University of Alabama 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 3.96-4.16 for this same academic profile.If your GPA is between 3.46 and 3.76, a strong SAT or ACT score is recommended.
The University of Alabama GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Highly selective; GPA is within the typical admitted range.
Recommended Strategy: Standardized Test Scores (SAT/ACT) in the top 5th percentile.
Admissions at The University of Alabama utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.76, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.76 – 4.00
Competitive Reach
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.56 – 3.75
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
3.36 – 3.55
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 3.35
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- Acceptance rate: approximately 76-80% (IPEDS 2024-25); application fee $40 (via Common App or UA Undergraduate App); test-optional for admission; Common App essay required (no supplemental essays); no letters of recommendation required. Priority deadline: December 5 for fall 2026 (admission + automatic merit scholarships + competitive scholarships). Applications after December 5 considered on space-available basis. Class of 2028 average enrolled GPA: 3.87; average ACT: 26.5; 264 National Merit Scholars enrolled.
- Automatic merit scholarships require test scores even if you apply test-optional for admission. Out-of-state tiers: Foundation in Excellence $15,000/yr (3.5+ GPA + 29 ACT/1330 SAT) ? UA Scholar $24,000/yr (3.5+ GPA + 30-31 ACT/1360-1410 SAT) ? Presidential $28,000/yr (3.5+ GPA + 32-36 ACT/1420-1600 SAT) ? Presidential Elite: full tuition + housing + $1,500/yr + $2,000 allowance (4.0+ GPA + 36 ACT/1600 SAT). UA does NOT superscore for merit scholarships - only single-test-date composite scores count. Final test date for fall 2026 scholarship: December 2025.
- Alabama residents: Alabama Prestige Scholarship awards full tuition + first-year housing to at least one qualifying student from every Alabama high school in the state. Alabama Advantage is a separate need-based scholarship for AL residents. All automatic merit scholarship awards are triggered by the admission application - no separate scholarship application required for the automatic awards. Renewal requires 3.0 cumulative UA GPA + 67% of credit hours earned each semester.
- Tuscaloosa campus (1,143 acres, 45,000+ students); SEC/Pac-12-adjacent national profile for football (Bryant-Denny Stadium, 100,000+ capacity; Crimson Tide); one of the largest Greek systems in the US; R1 research university (per Carnegie Classification 2021); named Alabama ACT code 0052, SAT code 1830 - confirm codes when sending test scores for scholarship consideration; notable: LBJ distinction belongs to Texas State University, not UA (common confusion); George Wallace's 1963 "Stand in the Schoolhouse Door" occurred at UA, a formative civil rights history moment that shaped the university's contemporary diversity commitments including highest underrepresented minority enrollment in Alabama.
- The Rigor Metric: At The University of Alabama, 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 The University of Alabama
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on The University of Alabama'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.
The University of Alabama 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 The University of Alabama Without SAT or ACT?
The University of Alabama considers admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process but does not require them. Although it is not strictly a requirement, the test scores are considered for admission decisions. Hence, it is advisable to prepare well for the test and submit the best scores. Normally, students may appear in the test 2 to 3 times to improve their scores.
The University of Alabama Average SAT Score: 1287
The average SAT score of the admitted students at The University of Alabama is 1287 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1287 — Slightly Competitive
This score makes it slightly Competitive for SAT test scores. You need to do well to score 1287 on the SAT.
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1400 SAT or 31 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. The University of Alabama allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 1170, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at The University of Alabama. 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 | 640 | 580 | 700 |
| SAT Reading | 645 | 590 | 700 |
| SAT Composite | 1287 | 1170 | 1400 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1170 then you are below most of the admitted students at The University of Alabama and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1400 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 1300
Can I get into The University of Alabama with a 1400 SAT?
With a 1400 SAT Score, your chances of admission at The University of Alabama are good but the admission staff at The University of Alabama 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.
The University of Alabama ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at The University of Alabama is 28.
ACT Competitiveness
ACT 28 — Competitive
This score makes The University of Alabama Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do well to score 28 on the ACT.
ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 26 | 22 | 29 |
| ACT English | 28 | 23 | 33 |
| ACT Composite | 28 | 24 | 31 |
Can I get into The University of Alabama with a 31 ACT?
A 31 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at The University of Alabama — meaning you score higher than 75% of students who were accepted. This is a strong position, but the ACT is just one dimension of your application. Admissions officers at The University of Alabama use the ACT as a benchmark to validate your academic readiness, not as a standalone admission ticket.
Unlike the SAT, the ACT measures four distinct subject areas — English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science — each scored on a 1–36 scale. If one of your section scores is significantly lower than the others, admissions staff will notice the imbalance. For example, a weak ACT Science score at a STEM-focused institution carries more weight than the same weakness at a liberal arts college. It is worth reviewing your section-level scores and addressing any outliers before applying.
One important advantage the ACT has over the SAT is that The University of Alabama — like most US universities — accepts Superscoring for the ACT, meaning they take your highest section scores across multiple test attempts and combine them into a new composite. If you have taken the ACT more than once, confirm whether The University of Alabama uses Superscoring, as this could meaningfully improve your effective composite beyond what any single sitting shows.
Beyond your score, what ultimately determines admission at this level is the strength of your overall profile. Your unweighted GPA, course rigor (AP, IB, or dual enrollment), extracurricular depth, letters of recommendation, and personal essays all carry significant weight. A 31 ACT gets your application through the first filter — but your essays and activities are what move it forward from there.
Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for The University of Alabama
Accessible Strategy: Academic Foundation
The University of Alabama is accessible to students who show core competency. The focus should be on proving readiness for college-level work and securing financial aid.
Test Scores Are Optional for Admission But Required for Automatic Merit Scholarships - This Is the Most Important Distinction in the Application Process
The University of Alabama is test-optional for admission in 2025-26, meaning you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores and be fully considered for admission on academic and non-academic criteria. However, test scores are explicitly required to qualify for UA's automatic merit scholarship program, which is one of the most generous in the country for out-of-state students. The automatic merit scholarship tiers for out-of-state applicants range from the Foundation in Excellence ($15,000/year, 3.5+ GPA + 29 ACT/1330-1350 SAT) up through UA Scholar ($24,000/year, 3.5+ GPA + 30-31 ACT/1360-1410 SAT), Presidential ($28,000/year, 3.5+ GPA + 32-36 ACT/1420-1600 SAT), and Presidential Elite (full tuition + housing + $1,500/year + $2,000 research allowance, 4.0+ GPA + 36 ACT/1600 SAT). At the Presidential level ($28,000/year for out-of-state students), the award essentially covers the full cost of out-of-state tuition, making UA dramatically affordable for high-achieving non-Alabama students. A student who applies test-optional receives a fair admissions review but is categorically excluded from these automatic awards. If you have a qualifying test score - or can obtain one before the December 5 priority deadline - submitting it is almost always the financially optimal decision.
UA Does Not Superscore for Scholarship Purposes - Only Composite Scores Count
The University of Alabama superscores for admission (using the highest section score from multiple test dates), but this is not the case for merit scholarships. For automatic merit scholarship consideration, only official composite ACT scores or official total SAT scores from a single test date are used - not superscores. This is a concrete strategic implication: a student whose composite scores qualify them for a Presidential Scholarship on a single test date gets the full scholarship; a student whose superscored composite would qualify but whose individual test-date composites do not gets nothing from the automatic merit program. If scholarship qualification is a goal, you need a qualifying composite on a single sitting, not a superscore. The final test date accepted for fall 2026 scholarship consideration is December 2025 - scores from January or February sittings in the senior year are too late. Plan your testing calendar around this deadline, not around the general admission deadline.
No Supplemental Essays Required - But the Common App Essay Is Read and Matters for Holistic Review
Alabama does not require supplemental essays or letters of recommendation for freshman admission. What is required is the application (via UA Undergraduate App or Common App) plus a high school transcript. The Common App essay - required as part of the Common App submission - is read and considered as part of holistic review, listed as an "important" factor by UA alongside extracurriculars and community service. It is not a throw-away requirement just because supplementals aren't asked for. UA's holistic review considers academic GPA and rigor, honors courses, standardized test scores (if submitted), leadership, volunteer work, extracurricular activities, employment, and non-academic honors. The Class of 2028 enrolled 264 National Merit Scholars, had an average GPA of 3.87, and an average ACT of 26.5 - indicators of the actual competitive profile of enrolled students, which is meaningfully stronger than the 76-80% acceptance rate suggests at the high end. A strong Common App essay that connects your academic trajectory to specific UA programs, colleges, or research opportunities will distinguish your application at the holistic review stage.
The Alabama Prestige Scholarship Guarantees One Award Per In-State High School - Apply and Ask About It
Alabama residents have access to a scholarship that out-of-state students cannot receive: the Alabama Prestige Scholarship, which awards full tuition plus first-year on-campus housing to at least one outstanding student from every high school in the state. This is not based on class rank or a fixed GPA threshold alone - it is awarded to recognize outstanding achievements of Alabama high school students, one per school per year. If you are an Alabama resident at a less competitive high school where the Prestige Scholarship has not historically gone to very high-GPA students, you may have a stronger chance of winning it than you realize. Alabama residents should also explore Alabama Advantage (a need-based scholarship for in-state students that removes financial barriers), and the full grid of in-state automatic merit scholarships (different tiers from out-of-state), all of which are triggered automatically by your application. Submit your FAFSA early alongside the scholarship application, confirm your entry in the Alabama Scholarship Award Manager (ASAM) after admission, and contact your school's UA admissions counselor to ask specifically about Prestige Scholarship history for your high school.
Expert Insight:
The University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa, UNITID 100751) is the flagship of the University of Alabama System and is completely distinct from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB, UNITID 100663) and the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH, UNITID 100706). All three use "University of Alabama" in their names and are occasionally conflated in college lists, financial aid portals, and test score submission. The ACT code for UA Tuscaloosa is 0052; the SAT code is 1830. UAB has entirely different programs (notably a very strong medical school and healthcare system in Birmingham), different admissions processes, and different scholarship structures. When sending test scores for UA Tuscaloosa scholarship consideration, confirm the codes 0052 (ACT) and 1830 (SAT) explicitly. Also note: acceptance rate figures range from 76% (IPEDS 2024-25) to 80% (CollegeTransitions); the most commonly cited accurate figure is approximately 76-80%, and the enrolled class profile (3.87 average GPA, 26.5 average ACT) indicates the competitive reality for admitted students is meaningfully stronger than the raw acceptance rate implies. Confirm UNITID 100751 and ua.edu before referencing any admissions or scholarship data.
The University of Alabama Profile
Full Name
The University of Alabama
City
Tuscaloosa
State
Alabama
ZIP Code
35487-0100
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Is a The University of Alabama Degree Worth It?
Getting into The University of Alabama 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. The University of Alabama 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 The University of Alabama is $57,900 and the graduate unemployment rate is 3.26%.
How much does a degree from The University of Alabama Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at The University of Alabama is $32,024. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at The University of Alabama is $22,150.
18% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 33.6 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to The University of Alabama and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At The University of Alabama, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist The University of Alabama as your choice in the form.
How much does a The University of Alabama Graduate earn?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $59,221. An average The University of Alabama 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 The University of Alabama. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Alabama at Birmingham | Birmingham, AL | 1251 | 26 |
| University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ | 1261 | 26 |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott | Prescott, AZ | 1256 | 27 |
| Biola University | La Mirada, CA | 1258 | 27 |
| Thomas Aquinas College | Santa Paula, CA | 1277 | 29 |
| University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | 1277 | 27 |
| Eckerd College | Saint Petersburg, FL | 1256 | 27 |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach | Daytona Beach, FL | 1256 | 27 |
| Florida Southern College | Lakeland, FL | 1263 | 28 |
| Covenant College | Lookout Mountain, GA | 1254 | 27 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as The University of Alabama. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Point Loma Nazarene University | San Diego, CA | 1278 | 26 |
| Thomas Aquinas College | Santa Paula, CA | 1277 | 29 |
| United States Coast Guard Academy | New London, CT | 1290 | 28 |
| University of Delaware | Newark, DE | 1297 | 29 |
| University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | 1277 | 27 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than The University of Alabama. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Alabama in Huntsville | Huntsville, AL | 1321 | 28 |
| Auburn University | Auburn, AL | 1318 | 28 |
| Hendrix College | Conway, AR | 1336 | 29 |
| Chapman University | Orange, CA | 1353 | 30 |
| Pepperdine University | Malibu, CA | 1367 | 29 |
Degree Programs at The University of Alabama
Bachelor Degree Programs
Frequently Asked Questions About The University of Alabama Admissions
Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $59,221 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.
The tuition fee at this university is moderate, around $32,024 per year. Many students seek financial aid and scholarships to manage the cost.
18.0% 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 The University of Alabama is 75.8% 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 3.76. 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 3.46, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.46, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
If your GPA is 3.36 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 3.76, 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 The University of Alabama is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1287 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1170–1400.
The application deadline for The University of Alabama is December 5. The institution also offers Rolling Admissions, so applying early improves your chances.
The application fee for The University of Alabama is 40. Fee waivers may be available for eligible students.
The scholarship priority deadline is December 5, 2026. Submit your FAFSA before this date for maximum aid consideration.
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.