Non-Profit Private
Accredited · Higher Learning Commission
Lebanon, Illinois
63.9% Acceptance Rate
McKendree University — Admission Snapshot 2026
A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application
63.9%Acceptance Rate
3.38Avg GPA
1074Avg SAT
$47,121Annual Cost
$58,572Grad Salary
29.1%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
63.9%
Avg GPA
3.38
Avg SAT
1074
Selectivity
Somewhat Selective
Institution Type
Non-Profit Private
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Higher Learning Commission
SAT Middle 50%
1034–1104
Need-Based Aid
29.1% receive Pell
McKendree University, established in 1828 in Lebanon, Illinois, is the oldest college in the state and a private liberal arts institution ranked among the best regional universities in the Midwest by U.S. News. The university's 235-acre campus combines historic buildings like Bothwell Chapel with modern facilities including the state-of-the-art Piper Academic Center. McKendree offers 50+ undergraduate programs with strengths in education, business, and nursing, maintaining a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio. The university's Honors Program and undergraduate research opportunities provide enhanced academic experiences.
McKendree's location in the Metro East region provides easy access to St. Louis' cultural and professional opportunities while maintaining a traditional college-town atmosphere. The university's Division II athletic teams have won multiple national championships, and its esports program is among the nation's most competitive. McKendree's global studies program includes study abroad opportunities and international student exchanges. The campus is known for its beautiful oak trees and historic landmarks, including the oldest continuously used academic building in Illinois.
McKendree University Acceptance Rate
McKendree University is somewhat selective in its admission process. The acceptance rate of McKendree University is 63.9%. This means that 64 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 — 63.9% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)
Recommended Academic Profile
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.38 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.18 – 3.37
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 2.93
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.
McKendree University GPA Requirement
The average GPA of admitted students at McKendree University is 3.38. Admission is competitive, but not extremely selective.
A mix of A's and B's is acceptable, and taking AP/IB courses helps.
Note: This is an unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with AP or IB courses will typically have a weighted GPA of 3.58-3.78 for this same academic profile.If your GPA is between 3.08 and 3.38, you should aim for a high SAT or ACT score.
McKendree University GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Holistic review is critical for admission.
Recommended Strategy: Requires Contextual Factors (Leadership, hardship, or talent).
Admissions at McKendree University utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.38, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.38 – 4.00
Strategic Reach
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.18 – 3.37
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
2.98 – 3.17
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 2.97
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At McKendree University, 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 McKendree University
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on McKendree University'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.
McKendree University 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 McKendree University Without SAT or ACT?
McKendree University 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.
McKendree University Average SAT Score: 1074
The average SAT score of the admitted students at McKendree University is 1074 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1074 — Accessible
This score makes it an easy target for SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 1074 on the SAT.
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1104 SAT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. McKendree 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 1034, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at McKendree University. 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 | 1074 | 1034 | 1104 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1034 then you are below most of the admitted students at McKendree University and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1104 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 1050
Can I get into McKendree University with a 1100 SAT?
With a 1100 SAT Score, your chances of admission at McKendree University are good but the admission staff at McKendree 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.
Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for McKendree University
Accessible Strategy: Academic Foundation
McKendree University 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 McKendree University to ensure your high school electives align with your intended major.
McKendree University Profile
Full Name
McKendree University
City
Lebanon
State
Illinois
ZIP Code
62254-1291
Type
Non-Profit Private
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Higher Learning Commission (NCACHE)
Is a McKendree University Degree Worth It?
Getting into McKendree University 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. McKendree University 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 McKendree University is $58,600 and the graduate unemployment rate is 3.21%.
How much does a degree from McKendree University Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at McKendree University is $47,121. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at McKendree University is much less than this.
29.1% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 44.6 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to McKendree University and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At McKendree University, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist McKendree University as your choice in the form.
How much does a McKendree University Graduate earn?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $58,572. An average McKendree 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 $40,595.
Compare Similar Colleges
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than McKendree University. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville State University | Jacksonville, AL | 1055 | 21 |
| Marion Military Institute | Marion, AL | 1043 | 20 |
| University of Arkansas at Little Rock | Little Rock, AR | 1049 | 21 |
| Arkansas Tech University | Russellville, AR | 1050 | 21 |
| Southern Arkansas University Main Campus | Magnolia, AR | 1050 | 20 |
| University of Arkansas-Fort Smith | Fort Smith, AR | 1050 | 21 |
| Western Connecticut State University | Danbury, CT | 1044 | 24 |
| Baptist University of Florida | Graceville, FL | 1045 | 20 |
| Point University | West Point, GA | 1059 | 19 |
| Georgia Southern University | Statesboro, GA | 1057 | 21 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as McKendree University. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Lewis College | Durango, CO | 1084 | 20 |
| Colorado Mesa University | Grand Junction, CO | 1070 | 23 |
| University of Northern Colorado | Greeley, CO | 1077 | 22 |
| Florida College | Temple Terrace, FL | 1068 | 19 |
| Piedmont University | Demorest, GA | 1074 | 21 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than McKendree University. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Huntingdon College | Montgomery, AL | 1148 | 23 |
| University of South Alabama | Mobile, AL | 1119 | 23 |
| Tuskegee University | Tuskegee, AL | 1121 | 22 |
| Arkansas State University | Jonesboro, AR | 1119 | 22 |
| University of Central Arkansas | Conway, AR | 1117 | 22 |
Degree Programs at McKendree University
Bachelor Degree Programs
Full list of all degree programs offered by McKendree University →
Frequently Asked Questions About McKendree University Admissions
Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $58,572 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.
The tuition fee at this university is moderate, around $47,121 per year. Many students seek financial aid and scholarships to manage the cost.
29.1% of students receive a Pell Grant at this institution. Your chances of need-based aid are moderate and depend primarily on your household income. Filing FAFSA early significantly improves your chances of receiving the maximum available grant amount.
The acceptance rate of McKendree University is 63.9% 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 3.38. 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 3.08, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.08, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
If your GPA is 2.98 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 3.38, 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 McKendree University is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1074 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1034–1104.
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.