Fairfield University Fairfield University, founded in 1942 in Connecticut, is a prestigious private Jesuit university. The 200-acre campus offers comprehensive programs through five schools, with particular strengths in business, nursing, and the arts. Fairfield maintains a 12:1 student-faculty ratio and is classified as an R2 research university. Campus features include the state-of-the-art Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies and the Quick Center for the Arts. The university's athletic teams, the Stags, compete in NCAA Division I as members of the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference./n/nFairfield takes pride in its Jesuit tradition of academic excellence and commitment to service. The curriculum emphasizes ethics, critical thinking, and global perspectives across disciplines. Campus life includes over 100 student organizations and extensive community engagement opportunities. Recent additions include the renovated DiMenna-Nyselius Library and the new Recreation Complex. Fairfield's combination of academic quality, beautiful campus setting, and proximity to New York City creates a transformative educational experience rooted in Jesuit values.
Acceptance Rate
Fairfield University is somewhat selective in its admission process. The acceptance rate of Fairfield University is 52.18%. This means that 52 out of every 100 applicants get admitted.
How Competitive are Fairfield University Admissions?
- Competitive: Applicants need good academics and extracurriculars.
- GPA, SAT/ACT, and AP/IB courses significantly impact admission chances.
- A holistic review considers essays, recommendations, and leadership roles.
To secure admission, you must convince the admission staff that you are both mentally and physically fit for the course of study. More importantly, your GPA, class performance, SAT/ACT scores, and IB or AP courses can help your application stand out. Additionally, if you do not perform well in one area, you can showcase your strengths in other areas, as the Fairfield University is not very strict in its admission process, so improving other areas will help you secure admission.
As the acceptance rate is above 50%, you still have a chance if your GPA is not excellent. You can make up for a lower GPA by scoring high on the SAT, and ACT, and taking IB or AP courses.
Additionally, a well-written letter of recommendation, your participation in co-curricular and extracurricular activities, and your interpersonal communication skills can enhance your admission chances.
Fairfield University Admission Requirements
Fairfield University GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at Fairfield University is 3.67. Fairfield University 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.
If your GPA is between 3.37 and 3.67, a strong SAT or ACT score is recommended. You need at least a 3.27 GPA to secure admission.
Can I Get Into Fairfield University Without SAT Or ACT?: Fairfield University 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 4 to 5 times to improve their 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.
Fairfield University SAT Requirements
Each school has different requirements for SAT and ACT testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them. The test score policy is already mentioned.
Fairfield University Average SAT Score: 1325
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Fairfield University is 1325 on the 1600 SAT scale.
Fairfield University SAT Competitiveness
This score makes it Competitive for SAT scores. You need to do well to score 1325 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (1370 SAT or 31 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Fairfield University allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 1240, you must retake the SAT to improve your chances of admission to Fairfield University. It is not strange to appear multiple times for the SAT to improve scores. Colleges don’t mind if you have appeared multiple times, but not more than 5 times.
Fairfield University SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 655 | 620 | 690 |
| SAT Reading | 650 | 620 | 680 |
| SAT Composite | 1325 | 1240 | 1370 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1240 then you are below most of the admitted students at Fairfield University and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1370 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 Fairfield University with a 1350 SAT?
With a 1350 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Fairfield University are good but the admission staff at Fairfield University 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.
Fairfield University ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at Fairfield University is 30.
Fairfield University ACT Competitiveness
This score makes Fairfield University very Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do very well to score 30 on the ACT.
Fairfield University ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 30 | 28 | 31 |
| ACT English | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| ACT Composite | 30 | 28 | 31 |
Can I get into Fairfield University with a 31 ACT?
With a 31 ACT Score, your chances of admission at Fairfield University are good but the admission staff does not check your ACT Score only. The College Admission process tests your all-around personality and 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.
View a list of all colleges with an average ACT score of 30.Fairfield University Profile
Name: Fairfield University
City: Fairfield
URL: fairfield.edu/
State: Connecticut
Type: Non-Profit Private
Zip: 06824-5195
Campus: Main
Accredited by: New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
How much does a degree from Fairfield University Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at Fairfield University is USD: 71215. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Fairfield University is much less than this.
How can I get a scholarship?
7.36% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 48.53 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Fairfield University and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Fairfield University, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist Fairfield University as your choice in the form.
How much a Fairfield University Graduate make?
The average annual salary of the Fairfield University graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is USD 88794. An average Fairfield University 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 USD: 40595
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Fairfield University. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower than the requirements of Fairfield University, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Alabama at Birmingham | University of Alabama at Birmingham, AL | 1291 | 27 |
| The University of Alabama | The University of Alabama, AL | 1304 | 27 |
| Auburn University | Auburn University, AL | 1292 | 27 |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott | Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott, AZ | 1278 | 28 |
| University of the Pacific | University of the Pacific, CA | 1276 | 29 |
| University of Colorado Boulder | University of Colorado Boulder, CO | 1301 | 29 |
| United States Coast Guard Academy | United States Coast Guard Academy, CT | 1294 | 29 |
| University of Delaware | University of Delaware, DE | 1290 | 29 |
| University of Central Florida | University of Central Florida, FL | 1281 | 27 |
| Florida State University | Florida State University, FL | 1309 | 29 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Fairfield University. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive for Fairfield University, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chapman University | Chapman University, CA | 1316 | 29 |
| University of San Francisco | University of San Francisco, CA | 1323 | 29 |
| Thomas Aquinas College | Thomas Aquinas College, CA | 1328 | 30 |
| Covenant College | Covenant College, GA | 1315 | 28 |
| University of Georgia | University of Georgia, GA | 1335 | 30 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Fairfield University. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loyola Marymount University | Loyola Marymount University, CA | 1378 | 31 |
| Pepperdine University | Pepperdine University, CA | 1399 | 30 |
| Santa Clara University | Santa Clara University, CA | 1379 | 31 |
| Westmont College | Westmont College, CA | 1380 | 32 |
| Colorado College | Colorado College, CO | 1402 | 31 |
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Accounting and Related Services
- Area Studies
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Biology, General
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Chemistry
- Communication and Media Studies
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Computer Engineering
Frequently Asked Questions About Fairfield University Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a high salary, $88794 annually, depending on the industry.
Question: What is the tuition fee for Fairfield University?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is quite high, approximately $71215 or more per year for out-of-state students, so it is important to consider additional funding options.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship at Fairfield University?
Answer: Your chances of getting a scholarship are good, with about a 50-80% chance. Scholarships are competitive but achievable if you meet the criteria.
Question: What is the acceptance rate for Fairfield University?
Answer: The acceptance rate of Fairfield University is 52.18 which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
Question: What is the average GPA of admitted students at Fairfield University?
Answer: The average GPA of admitted students is 3.67. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
Question: What is the minimum GPA required for admission to Fairfield University?
Answer: The minimum GPA required for admission is typically around 3.37, though this can vary depending on other factors such as test scores, extracurriculars, and essays.
Question: What are my chances at Fairfield University with a 3.37 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 3.37 or less, it may makes admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays.
Question: Can I apply to Fairfield University if my GPA is below 3.27
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.67, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Question: How competitive is the SAT score requirement for Fairfield University?
Answer: Admission to Fairfield University is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1325 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1240-1370
Question: Is it possible to transfer to Fairfield University from another university?
Answer: Yes, many students successfully transfer to Fairfield University each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
Question: What is the campus culture like at Fairfield University?
Answer: The campus culture at Fairfield University is diverse and vibrant, with numerous student organizations, sports teams, and cultural activities. It’s an ideal environment for personal growth and building lifelong connections.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting into Fairfield University?
Answer: 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.
Full list of All degree programs offered by Fairfield University.
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in 2024, US Department of Education's latest 2024 statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.