Last Updated: Sunday May 17, 2026  ·  Source: IPEDS & College Scorecard Nov 2025
Seton Hall University — Acceptance Rate and Admission Requirements
Non-Profit Private Accredited · Middle States Commission on Higher Education South Orange, New Jersey 78.9% Acceptance Rate

Seton Hall University Acceptance Rate, GPA, and Admission Requirements

📍 South Orange, New Jersey 07079-2697 🏛️ Main Campus 🌐 https://www.shu.edu/

Seton Hall University — Admission Snapshot 2026

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

78.9%Acceptance Rate
3.64Avg GPA
1308Avg SAT
29Avg ACT
$64,996Annual Cost
$70,196Grad Salary
30.3%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
78.9%
Avg GPA
3.64
Avg SAT
1308
Avg ACT
29
Selectivity
Inclusive
Institution Type
Non-Profit Private
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
SAT Middle 50%
1220–1400
ACT Middle 50%
27–31
Need-Based Aid
30.3% receive Pell

Seton Hall University Acceptance Rate

Seton Hall University maintains an inclusive admission policy. With an acceptance rate of 78.9%, the institution prioritizes accessibility and opportunity for all qualified students.

Admissions Guidelines

  • Inclusive Enrollment: Emphasis is placed on meeting basic eligibility and high school completion.
  • Launchpad Policy: Ideal for students looking to build a GPA for future transfer or career certification.

Selectivity at a Glance

Inclusive
Seton Hall University Selectivity Meter
Selectivity scale: Inclusive — 78.9% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)

Recommended Academic Profile

Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.64 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.44 – 3.63
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 3.19
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.

Seton Hall University GPA Requirement

The average GPA of the admitted students at Seton Hall University is 3.64. Seton Hall 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.

Note: This is an unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with AP or IB courses will typically have a weighted GPA of 3.84-4.04 for this same academic profile.

If your GPA is between 3.34 and 3.64, a strong SAT or ACT score is recommended.

Seton Hall University GPA & Admission Outlook

Assessment: Selective; solid academic performance is expected.

Recommended Strategy: Focus on a Strong 'Spike' in extracurriculars or research.

Admissions at Seton Hall University utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.64, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.

Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.64 – 4.00
Target/Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.44 – 3.63
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
3.24 – 3.43
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 3.23
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors

Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics

  • The Rigor Metric: At Seton Hall 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 Seton Hall University

Admission Chance Predictor

Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on Seton Hall University'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.

Seton Hall 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 Seton Hall University Without SAT or ACT?

Seton Hall 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 2 to 3 times to improve their scores.

Seton Hall University Average SAT Score: 1308

The average SAT score of the admitted students at Seton Hall University is 1308 on the 1600 SAT scale.

SAT Competitiveness

Seton Hall University SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1308 — Competitive

This score makes it Competitive for SAT scores. You need to do well to score 1308 on the SAT.

SAT Math
650
SAT Reading
660
Composite
1308
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1400 SAT or 31 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Seton Hall 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 1220, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at Seton Hall 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

SAT score percentiles for Seton Hall University
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
SAT Math650600700
SAT Reading660620700
SAT Composite130812201400

It means that if you have scored less than 1220 then you are below most of the admitted students at Seton Hall University and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1400 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 Seton Hall University with a 1400 SAT?

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

Seton Hall University ACT Requirements

The average ACT Score at Seton Hall University is 29.

ACT Competitiveness

Seton Hall University ACT Competitiveness
ACT 29 — Competitive

This score makes Seton Hall University Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do well to score 29 on the ACT.

ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections

ACT score percentiles for Seton Hall University
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
ACT Math282630
ACT English312734
ACT Composite292731

Can I get into Seton Hall University with a 31 ACT?

A 31 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at Seton Hall University — 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 Seton Hall University 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 Seton Hall University — 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 Seton Hall University 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 31 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 29

Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for Seton Hall University

Accessible Strategy: Academic Foundation

Seton Hall 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 Seton Hall University to ensure your high school electives align with your intended major.

Seton Hall University Profile

Full Name
Seton Hall University
City
South Orange
State
New Jersey
ZIP Code
07079-2697
Type
Non-Profit Private
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)

Is a Seton Hall University Degree Worth It?

Getting into Seton Hall 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. Seton Hall 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 Seton Hall University is $79,600 and the graduate unemployment rate is 3.58%.

How much does a degree from Seton Hall University Cost?

The average annual cost of the degree at Seton Hall University is $64,996. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Seton Hall University is much less than this.

30.3% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 51.2 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Seton Hall University and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.

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

How much does a Seton Hall University Graduate earn?

The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $70,196. An average Seton Hall 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.

$64,996Annual Cost
30.3%Pell Grant
51.2%Federal Loan
$70,196Grad Salary (10yr)

Compare Similar Colleges

Less Competitive

Less Competitive Schools

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

SchoolLocationSATACT
The University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, AL 1287 28
University of Arizona Tucson, AZ 1261 26
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 Delaware Newark, DE 1297 29
University of Central Florida Orlando, FL 1277 27
Florida Southern College Lakeland, FL 1263 28
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 Seton Hall University. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.

SchoolLocationSATACT
Auburn University Auburn, AL 1318 28
University of the Pacific Stockton, CA 1303 27
University of San Francisco San Francisco, CA 1313 29
Rollins College Winter Park, FL 1304 29
University of Georgia Athens, GA 1301 29
More Competitive

More Competitive Schools

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

SchoolLocationSATACT
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
University of Denver Denver, CO 1344 31

Degree Programs at Seton Hall University

Bachelor Degree Programs

Full list of all degree programs offered by Seton Hall University →

Frequently Asked Questions About Seton Hall University Admissions

Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $70,196 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.

The tuition fee at this university is quite high, approximately $64,996 or more per year, so it is important to consider additional funding options.

30.3% 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 Seton Hall University is 78.9% 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 3.64. 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 3.34, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.34, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.

If your GPA is 3.24 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 3.64, 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 Seton Hall University is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1308 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1220–1400.

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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