Public
Accredited · Higher Learning Commission
Kearney, Nebraska
85.8% Acceptance Rate
University of Nebraska at Kearney — Admission Snapshot 2026
A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application
85.8%Acceptance Rate
3.24Avg GPA
1089Avg SAT
22Avg ACT
$24,452Annual Cost
$50,105Grad Salary
33.5%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
85.8%
Avg GPA
3.24
Avg SAT
1089
Avg ACT
22
Selectivity
Inclusive
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Higher Learning Commission
SAT Middle 50%
970–1150
ACT Middle 50%
18–25
Avg Net Price
$16,488
Need-Based Aid
33.5% receive Pell
University of Nebraska at Kearney is a public university dedicated to academic excellence, student success, and regional impact. By offering personalized education and a wide range of programs, the university provides a supportive environment that helps students achieve their academic and career goals.
University of Nebraska at Kearney Acceptance Rate
University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) runs an open-access admission policy. With a 85.8% acceptance rate, the focus is on getting qualified students in, not filtering them out.
What to Expect
- Eligibility First: A high school diploma or GED typically clears the main bar.
- Plan Ahead for Placement: Placement tests can shape which courses you start in. They are worth preparing for.
Selectivity at a Glance
Inclusive
Selectivity scale: Inclusive — 85.8% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)
Recommended Academic Profile
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.24 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.04 – 3.23
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 2.79
Secondary Reach
Requires Contextual Support
Source: IPEDS & College Scorecard (Nov 2025).
University of Nebraska at Kearney Application Deadlines & Admission Dates 2026
University of Nebraska at Kearney follows a Rolling Admissions policy, meaning applications are reviewed as they arrive and there is no single fixed deadline.
Key Admission Dates
Rolling Admissions — Apply Anytime
UNK 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.
💡 The scholarship deadline (Priority scholarship: 2027/02/01) 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.
UNK GPA Requirement
The average GPA of admitted students at UNK is 3.24. That makes admissions here competitive, but not extremely selective. Most admitted students carry a mix of A's and B's.
In the 2.94–3.24 range, a high SAT or ACT score still carries real weight.
Most schools report GPA on a weighted or unweighted 4.0 scale differently. For an unweighted profile like this, students with AP/IB coursework typically carry a weighted GPA of 3.44–3.64.UNK GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Holistic review is critical for admission.
Recommended Strategy: Requires Contextual Factors (Leadership, hardship, or talent).
Where your GPA falls in this range shapes what the rest of your application needs to do:
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.24 – 4.00
Strategic Reach
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.04 – 3.23
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
2.84 – 3.03
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 2.83
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors
Evaluation Metrics That Matter Here
- UNK's automatic admission is "OR," not "AND" - a 20 ACT, a 1040 SAT (R+M), top-half class rank, or a 3.0 HS GPA each independently qualify a freshman applicant.
- Test scores are genuinely optional for general admission: roughly 85% of admits submit ACT scores but only about 4% submit SAT scores, and neither is required to apply.
- Applications that don't meet any automatic criterion go to individualized "Admission by Review" by a university committee - this is a real secondary path, not a soft rejection.
- The Master of Athletic Training program uses two separate entry pathways (3+2 accelerated from freshman year, or 2-year post-baccalaureate) with its own cohort application cycle and April 1 deadline, distinct from general university admission timing.
- Rigor Over Raw Number: A slightly lower GPA (say 3.8) paired with multiple AP or IB courses often outweighs a flat 4.0 from a standard curriculum.
- Trajectory Matters: A lower start in 9th or 10th grade, followed by a clear upward trend senior year, reads as academic resilience rather than a weakness.
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Check Your Admission Chances at UNK
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on University of Nebraska at Kearney'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 Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) Test Requirements
Standardized scores still matter here: aim for the middle 50% range of the 2026 admitted class below, and if UNK is test-optional, a high score submitted voluntarily still helps with merit scholarships.
Can I Get Into UNK Without SAT or ACT?
UNK considers scores when submitted, without requiring them. Prepare well and submit your best attempt. Most applicants test 2–3 times.
University of Nebraska at Kearney Average SAT Score: 1089
The average SAT score of admitted students at University of Nebraska at Kearney is 1089 on the 1600-point scale.
SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1089 — Accessible
This average is on the lower end nationally, making a strong score here a genuine advantage.
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1150 SAT or 25 ACT) to stand out. Below average? University of Nebraska at Kearney allows Score Choice for the SAT, so a retake only helps — a low sitting never has to be sent.
If your score is below 970, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at UNK. Retaking multiple times is completely normal. Most competitive applicants sit for it two or three times. There's no official limit on attempts.
SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 525 | 490 | 560 |
| SAT Reading | 535 | 480 | 590 |
| SAT Composite | 1089 | 970 | 1150 |
Below 970, you're behind most admitted students; at 1150 or above, you're ahead of 75% of them. (25th/75th percentile = the score below which that share of admitted students fall.)
View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1100
Can I get into University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) with a 1150 SAT?
A 1150 SAT puts you ahead of most of UNK's admitted class, but admissions still weighs GPA, course rigor, and essays alongside it. A strong score opens the door; the rest of your profile decides what happens next.
University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) ACT Requirements
The average ACT score at UNK is 22.
ACT Competitiveness
ACT 22 — Slightly Competitive
This sits close to the national average ACT score.
ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 21 | 17 | 25 |
| ACT English | 21 | 17 | 24 |
| ACT Composite | 22 | 18 | 25 |
Can I get into University of Nebraska at Kearney with a 25 ACT?
A 25 ACT puts you ahead of 75% of UNK's admitted students. That's a strong position, though the ACT is only one benchmark among several that admissions weighs.
Unlike the SAT, the ACT scores four separate sections: English, Math, Reading, and Science, each on a 1–36 scale. A noticeably weak section, especially Science at STEM-focused schools, stands out to reviewers, so it's worth checking your section breakdown for outliers before applying.
Your ACT score clears the first filter, but GPA, course rigor, extracurricular depth, recommendations, and essays are what carry an application the rest of the way at UNK.
Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for UNK
Accessible Strategy: Academic Foundation
UNK is accessible to students who show core competency. Focus on proving readiness for college-level work and locking in financial aid.
Hit any one of UNK's four automatic-admission triggers - you don't need all of them
UNK's freshman admission formula is disjunctive, not cumulative: you gain automatic admission by meeting just ONE of these - a 20+ ACT composite (or 1040+ SAT Reading+Math), OR top-half class rank, OR a 3.0 cumulative high school GPA. If your test scores are mediocre but your class rank is strong, lead with the transcript rather than worrying about retaking the ACT; UNK is test-optional and only 4% of admits even submit SAT scores.
If you miss all four automatic triggers, understand exactly what "Admission by Review" actually evaluates
Applicants who don't meet any of the four automatic thresholds go to a committee of university representatives who weigh cumulative GPA, class rank, ACT/SAT (if submitted), and specifically your grades in UNK's required core coursework (4 years English, 3 years math, 3 years social studies, 2 years of the same world language, 1 elective year) - not just your overall GPA. If you're borderline, make sure your senior-year schedule visibly completes any gaps in that specific core list before you apply, since a review committee is checking for exactly those boxes.
For competitive professional programs like Athletic Training, treat the major application as a second, later admission event
UNK's Master of Athletic Training (3+2 accelerated or 2-year post-bacc) requires a separate cohort application - the 2026 cohort application closes April 1, 2026 - plus an interview and specific GPA thresholds (2.0 to enter, but a 3.75 GPA must be maintained once admitted). If you're targeting this or a similarly cohort-based clinical program, get involved with departmental activities and attend required practicum hours before your application cycle opens; Niche reviews from admitted students specifically flag "showing up on time for scheduled practices" as a factor evaluators notice.
Use the 24-transfer-credit rule to your advantage if you're a transfer applicant with a rocky high school record
UNK treats 24+ transferable semester hours earned after high school graduation as automatically satisfying the high-school core-course requirement - meaning your community college record, not your high school transcript, becomes the primary evaluation basis. If your high school grades were weak but you've since built a strong college GPA (2.0+ minimum, but competitive is higher), lean into the transfer pathway rather than reapplying as a freshman.
Expert Insight:
Applicants sometimes assume that because UNK's overall acceptance rate sits in the mid-80% range, every major and program follows the same relaxed logic. Clinical and cohort-based programs like Athletic Training are the exception - they layer a GPA floor, a mandatory interview, and demonstrated program engagement (attendance at practicum sessions) on top of general admission, and a strong first semester matters disproportionately since a rocky GPA start (as multiple admitted students note) can be difficult to recover from before the departmental application window opens.
UNK Profile
Full Name
University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK)
City
Kearney
State
Nebraska
ZIP Code
68849-1212
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Higher Learning Commission (NCACHE)
Is a UNK Degree Worth It?
At $24,452/year against a $50,105 median graduate salary, UNK is worth weighing against your specific program and financial situation. The numbers below give you a real basis for that decision.
The average household income among admitted students is $51,300, with a graduate unemployment rate of 2.15%.
How much does a degree from UNK Cost?
The sticker price is $24,452/year, but the average net price students actually pay, after Pell and federal grants, is closer to $16,488.
33.5% of students receive a Pell Grant and 37.1% take federal loans at UNK. File your FAFSA early and list UNK as a choice to be considered for both.
How much does a UNK Graduate earn?
Median earnings 10 years after enrollment (roughly 4–6 years post-graduation) are $50,105. That's about 23% above the U.S. median graduate income.
Compare Similar Colleges
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than University of Nebraska at Kearney. 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 |
| Colorado Mesa University | Grand Junction, CO | 1070 | 23 |
| University of Northern Colorado | Greeley, CO | 1077 | 22 |
| Western Connecticut State University | Danbury, CT | 1044 | 24 |
| Baptist University of Florida | Graceville, FL | 1045 | 20 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as University of Nebraska at Kearney. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auburn University at Montgomery | Montgomery, AL | 1090 | 21 |
| Spring Hill College | Mobile, AL | 1090 | 22 |
| Troy University | Troy, AL | 1086 | 22 |
| Grand Canyon University | Phoenix, AZ | 1095 | 22 |
| University of the Ozarks | Clarksville, AR | 1088 | 21 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than University of Nebraska at Kearney. 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 |
| Azusa Pacific University | Azusa, CA | 1155 | 22 |
Degree Programs at UNK
Bachelor Degree Programs
Frequently Asked Questions About UNK Admissions
Median graduate earnings at University of Nebraska at Kearney run about $50,105 a year.
At about $24,452 a year, University of Nebraska at Kearney is on the more affordable end.
About 33.5% receive a Pell Grant at University of Nebraska at Kearney. The odds are moderate and largely income-dependent, but an early FAFSA filing still helps.
At 85.8%, University of Nebraska at Kearney's acceptance rate is on the more attainable end compared to top-tier selective schools.
Admitted students at University of Nebraska at Kearney average a 3.24 GPA.
University of Nebraska at Kearney doesn't publish a hard GPA floor, but landing at or above 2.94 keeps you in the typical applicant range; below it, lean on essays and recommendations.
Below 2.84, University of Nebraska at Kearney becomes a harder reach, though a strong test score, meaningful activities, and AP/IB coursework can still make a real case.
A strong SAT score matters at University of Nebraska at Kearney — aim above 1089, ideally within the 970–1150 range admitted students typically fall in.
University of Nebraska at Kearney follows Rolling Admissions. Applications are reviewed year-round, so applying early is your best strategy.
The application fee is 45. Fee waivers may be available. Check with admissions.
The scholarship/financial aid priority deadline is Priority scholarship: 2027/02/01. Submit FAFSA before then for maximum consideration.
Yes, transfers are common. Have transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement ready to make your case.
Strong academics, a focused extracurricular profile, and standout essays move the needle most, along with a competitive SAT/ACT score where relevant.
Explore Other Options
Acceptance Rate of all Nebraska Colleges
Average SAT Score of Nebraska Colleges
Average ACT Score
Admissions deadlines of Colleges in Nebraska
Bachelor Programs in Nebraska
Test Optional Colleges in Nebraska
SAT Score Wise Best Colleges
ACT Score Wise Best Colleges
Rolling Admissions Colleges in Nebraska