Last Updated: Sunday May 17, 2026  ·  Source: IPEDS & College Scorecard Nov 2025
University of Connecticut — Acceptance Rate and Admission Requirements
Public Accredited · New England Commission on Higher Education Storrs, Connecticut 54% Acceptance Rate

University of Connecticut Acceptance Rate, GPA, and Admission Requirements

📍 Storrs, Connecticut 6269 🏛️ Main Campus 🌐 https://uconn.edu/

University of Connecticut — Admission Snapshot 2026

A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application

54%Acceptance Rate
3.74Avg GPA
1338Avg SAT
31Avg ACT
$36,572Annual Cost
$73,997Grad Salary
24.2%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
54%
Avg GPA
3.74
Avg SAT
1338
Avg ACT
31
Selectivity
Somewhat Selective
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
New England Commission on Higher Education
SAT Middle 50%
1210–1420
ACT Middle 50%
29–33
Avg Net Price
$22,886
Need-Based Aid
24.2% receive Pell

University of Connecticut, founded in 1881, is Connecticut's flagship public research university renowned for its business, engineering, and pharmacy programs. Ranked among the top 25 public universities nationally.

The 4,400-acre main campus in Storrs features the Innovation Partnership Building, the Werth Institute for Entrepreneurship, and the UConn Health complex. As an R1 research institution, it offers extensive undergraduate research opportunities across all disciplines.

University of Connecticut Acceptance Rate

University of Connecticut is somewhat selective in its admission process. The acceptance rate of University of Connecticut is 54%. This means that 54 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
University of Connecticut Selectivity Meter
Selectivity scale: Somewhat Selective — 54% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)

Recommended Academic Profile

Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.74 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.54 – 3.73
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 3.29
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.

University of Connecticut GPA Requirement

The average GPA of the admitted students at University of Connecticut is 3.74. University of Connecticut 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 3.94-4.14 for this same academic profile.

If your GPA is between 3.44 and 3.74, a strong SAT or ACT score is recommended.

University of Connecticut 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 University of Connecticut utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.74, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.

Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.74 – 4.00
Competitive Reach
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.54 – 3.73
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
3.34 – 3.53
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 3.33
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors

Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics

  • The Rigor Metric: At University of Connecticut, 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 University of Connecticut

Admission Chance Predictor

Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on University of Connecticut's verified institutional data

--%
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.

University of Connecticut 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 University of Connecticut Without SAT or ACT?

University of Connecticut requires test (SAT/ACT) scores to determine the merit for admission. It means that students will not be allowed to apply without test scores. Hence you are required to plan early and appear in upcoming SAT / ACT tests. Check the schedule of the test and plan accordingly. It is advisable to appear multiple times in the test unless you score well above the average SAT / ACT score of the admitted students, as given below. Normally, students may appear in the test multiple times to improve their scores.

University of Connecticut Average SAT Score: 1338

The average SAT score of the admitted students at University of Connecticut is 1338 on the 1600 SAT scale.

SAT Competitiveness

University of Connecticut SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1338 — Competitive

This score makes it Competitive for SAT scores. You need to do well to score 1338 on the SAT.

SAT Math
660
SAT Reading
655
Composite
1338
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1420 SAT or 33 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. University of Connecticut allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.

If your score is below 1210, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at University of Connecticut. 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

SAT score percentiles for University of Connecticut
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
SAT Math660600720
SAT Reading655610700
SAT Composite133812101420

It means that if you have scored less than 1210 then you are below most of the admitted students at University of Connecticut and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1420 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 1350

Can I get into University of Connecticut with a 1400 SAT?

With a 1400 SAT Score, your chances of admission at University of Connecticut are good but the admission staff at University of Connecticut 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.

University of Connecticut ACT Requirements

The average ACT Score at University of Connecticut is 31.

ACT Competitiveness

University of Connecticut ACT Competitiveness
ACT 31 — Very Competitive

This score makes University of Connecticut very Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do very well to score 31 on the ACT.

ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections

ACT score percentiles for University of Connecticut
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
ACT Math292632
ACT English322835
ACT Composite312933

Can I get into University of Connecticut with a 33 ACT?

A 33 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at University of Connecticut — 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 University of Connecticut 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 University of Connecticut — 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 University of Connecticut 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 33 ACT gets your application through the first filter — but your essays and activities are what move it forward from there.

View a list of all colleges with an average ACT score of 31

Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for University of Connecticut

Accessible Strategy: Academic Foundation

University of Connecticut 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 University of Connecticut to ensure your high school electives align with your intended major.

University of Connecticut Profile

Full Name
University of Connecticut
City
Storrs
State
Connecticut
ZIP Code
6269
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)

Is a University of Connecticut Degree Worth It?

Getting into University of Connecticut 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. University of Connecticut 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 University of Connecticut is $81,000 and the graduate unemployment rate is 3.06%.

How much does a degree from University of Connecticut Cost?

The average annual cost of the degree at University of Connecticut is $36,572. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at University of Connecticut is $22,886.

24.2% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 40.5 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to University of Connecticut and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.

At University of Connecticut, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist University of Connecticut as your choice in the form.

How much does a University of Connecticut Graduate earn?

The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $73,997. An average University of Connecticut 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.

$36,572Annual Cost
$22,886Net Price
24.2%Pell Grant
40.5%Federal Loan
$73,997Grad Salary (10yr)

Compare Similar Colleges

Less Competitive

Less Competitive Schools

These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than University of Connecticut. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.

SchoolLocationSATACT
University of Alabama in Huntsville Huntsville, AL 1321 28
Auburn University Auburn, AL 1318 28
University of the Pacific Stockton, CA 1303 27
University of San Francisco San Francisco, CA 1313 29
Fairfield University Fairfield, CT 1323 31
United States Coast Guard Academy New London, CT 1290 28
University of Delaware Newark, DE 1297 29
Florida State University Tallahassee, FL 1323 29
Rollins College Winter Park, FL 1304 29
Agnes Scott College Decatur, GA 1296 29
Same Competitive

Equally Competitive Schools

These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as University of Connecticut. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.

SchoolLocationSATACT
Hendrix College Conway, AR 1336 29
University of Denver Denver, CO 1344 31
Centre College Danville, KY 1345 29
Bentley University Waltham, MA 1340 31
Clark University Worcester, MA 1339 32
More Competitive

More Competitive Schools

These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than University of Connecticut. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

SchoolLocationSATACT
Santa Clara University Santa Clara, CA 1417 32
Colorado School of Mines Golden, CO 1403 31
Connecticut College New London, CT 1412 32
Trinity College Hartford, CT 1396 32
American University Washington, DC 1392 31

Degree Programs at University of Connecticut

Bachelor Degree Programs

Full list of all degree programs offered by University of Connecticut →

Frequently Asked Questions About University of Connecticut Admissions

Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $73,997 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.

The tuition fee at this university is moderate, around $36,572 per year. Many students seek financial aid and scholarships to manage the cost.

24.2% 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 University of Connecticut is 54% 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 3.74. 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 3.44, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.44, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.

If your GPA is 3.34 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 3.74, 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 University of Connecticut is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1338 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1210–1420.

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.

Last Updated: Sunday May 17, 2026

SK

Sohaib Ahmad Khan

Sohaib Ahmad Khan is a leading career counselor and admission guidance expert who has guided over 50,000 students worldwide. He is the author of four books and developer of widely used career counseling and aptitude assessment systems. .

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