Public
Accredited · Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Athens, Georgia
37.2% Acceptance Rate
University of Georgia — Admission Snapshot 2026
A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application
37.2%Acceptance Rate
4Avg GPA
1301Avg SAT
29Avg ACT
$27,436Annual Cost
$68,726Grad Salary
17.2%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
37.2%
Avg GPA
4
Avg SAT
1301
Avg ACT
29
Selectivity
Selective
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
SAT Middle 50%
1160–1390
ACT Middle 50%
25–32
Avg Net Price
$13,816
Need-Based Aid
17.2% receive Pell
University of Georgia The University of Georgia (UGA), chartered in 1785, is America's first state-chartered university and a flagship public research institution. Located in Athens, Georgia, UGA comprises 17 schools and colleges offering over 140 degree programs, with particularly strong programs in agriculture, business, and journalism. The 762-acre main campus features historic landmarks like the iconic Arch and modern facilities such as the $65 million Science Learning Center. UGA is classified as an R1 research university with very high research activity and consistently ranks among the top public universities by U.S. News & World Report. The university's extensive library system includes the main library, which is among the largest in the nation.
UGA's vibrant campus life includes over 800 student organizations and a strong Greek system. The Georgia Bulldogs athletic teams compete in the NCAA Division I Southeastern Conference, with particularly renowned football and gymnastics programs. Recent campus developments include the Interdisciplinary STEM Research Building and the Terry College of Business' new home, Correll Hall. UGA's study abroad program is one of the most comprehensive in the nation, offering opportunities in over 50 countries. The university's combination of academic excellence, spirited traditions, and beautiful campus makes it one of the South's most prestigious institutions.
University of Georgia Acceptance Rate
University of Georgia is a well-known institution. It has a selective admission process. The acceptance rate of University of Georgia is 37.2%. This means that 37 out of every 100 applicants get admitted.
Admissions Guidelines
- Selective Enrollment: Applicants need a solid GPA and proof of academic growth.
- Holistic Balance: Strong recommendations and community involvement are highly valued.
Selectivity at a Glance
Selective
Selectivity scale: Selective — 37.2% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)
If your GPA is slightly below the institutional average, you can remain competitive by scoring well on standardized tests and showcasing leadership in co-curricular activities.
Recommended Academic Profile
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
4.00 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.80 – 3.99
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 3.55
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 Georgia GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at University of Georgia is 4. It means that University of Georgia is very selective in terms of the GPA. (Most schools report a weighted GPA, which is out of 4.0. However, some schools may use unweighted GPAs. For exact information, contact the school admission staff).
With an average GPA of 4, University of Georgia requires you to be near the top of your class. You need to score mostly A's in all classes to have good chances of admission. Additionally, AP or IB courses related to your chosen field (e.g., math, calculus, physics for engineering) will strengthen your application.
University of Georgia GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Extreme selectivity; requires elite academic standing.
Recommended Strategy: High Course Rigor (AP/IB/Honors) to validate the grade.
Admissions at University of Georgia utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 4, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
4.00 – 4.00
Academic Target
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.80 – 3.99
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
3.60 – 3.79
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 3.59
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At University of Georgia, 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 Georgia
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on University of Georgia'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.
University of Georgia 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 Georgia Without SAT or ACT?
University of Georgia 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 Georgia Average SAT Score: 1301
The average SAT score of the admitted students at University of Georgia is 1301 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1301 — Competitive
This score makes it Competitive for SAT scores. You need to do well to score 1301 on the SAT.
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1390 SAT or 32 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. University of Georgia allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 1160, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at University of Georgia. 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 | 635 | 570 | 700 |
| SAT Reading | 640 | 590 | 690 |
| SAT Composite | 1301 | 1160 | 1390 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1160 then you are below most of the admitted students at University of Georgia and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1390 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 University of Georgia with a 1400 SAT?
With a 1400 SAT Score, your chances of admission at University of Georgia are good but the admission staff at University of Georgia 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 Georgia ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at University of Georgia is 29.
ACT Competitiveness
ACT 29 — Competitive
This score makes University of Georgia Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do well to score 29 on the ACT.
ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 30 | 27 | 32 |
| ACT English | 33 | 31 | 35 |
| ACT Composite | 29 | 25 | 32 |
Can I get into University of Georgia with a 32 ACT?
A 32 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at University of Georgia — 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 Georgia 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 Georgia — 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 Georgia 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 32 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 University of Georgia
Selective Strategy: Competitive Positioning
At University of Georgia, admissions officers seek reliable, high-achieving students. The goal is to be a top-tier applicant to trigger both admission and high-value merit aid.
Target the 75th Percentile
Being 'average' is fine for admission, but being in the top 25% of the applicant pool is the primary key to securing automatic merit-based scholarships.
Demonstrated Interest
Unlike the Ivies, mid-tier schools track engagement. Open their emails, attend virtual tours, and mention specific campus programs to improve your 'Yield' profile.
The 'Breadth' Factor
Mid-tier institutions value students who contribute to campus life through a balance of sports, music, volunteering, and core academic strength.
Humanize the Transcript
Use your personal statement to prove you will be a 'good roommate' and active community member. Focus on resilience, empathy, and career goals.
Scholarship Tip: Applying Early Action (EA) at this level often increases your priority for institutional grants and honors college consideration.
University of Georgia Profile
Full Name
University of Georgia
City
Athens
State
Georgia
ZIP Code
30602
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Is a University of Georgia Degree Worth It?
Getting into University of Georgia 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 Georgia 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 Georgia is $71,200 and the graduate unemployment rate is 2.99%.
How much does a degree from University of Georgia Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at University of Georgia is $27,436. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at University of Georgia is $13,816.
17.2% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 21.7 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to University of Georgia and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At University of Georgia, 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 Georgia as your choice in the form.
How much does a University of Georgia Graduate earn?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $68,726. An average University of Georgia 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 University of Georgia. 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 |
| The University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa, AL | 1287 | 28 |
| University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ | 1261 | 26 |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott | Prescott, AZ | 1256 | 27 |
| Biola University | La Mirada, CA | 1258 | 27 |
| 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 Central Florida | Orlando, FL | 1277 | 27 |
| Eckerd College | Saint Petersburg, FL | 1256 | 27 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as University of Georgia. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of the Pacific | Stockton, CA | 1303 | 27 |
| University of Delaware | Newark, DE | 1297 | 29 |
| Rollins College | Winter Park, FL | 1304 | 29 |
| Agnes Scott College | Decatur, GA | 1296 | 29 |
| Illinois Institute of Technology | Chicago, IL | 1296 | 28 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than University of Georgia. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hendrix College | Conway, AR | 1336 | 29 |
| Chapman University | Orange, CA | 1353 | 30 |
| Pepperdine University | Malibu, CA | 1367 | 29 |
| Westmont College | Santa Barbara, CA | 1367 | 32 |
| University of Colorado Boulder | Boulder, CO | 1353 | 31 |
Degree Programs at University of Georgia
Bachelor Degree Programs
Full list of all degree programs offered by University of Georgia →
Frequently Asked Questions About University of Georgia Admissions
Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $68,726 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.
The tuition fee at this university is relatively low, around $27,436 per year, making it more affordable for many students.
17.2% 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 Georgia is 37.2% 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 4. 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 3.7, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.7, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
If your GPA is 3.6 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 4, 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 Georgia is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1301 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1160–1390.
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.