Union College Union College, founded in 1795 in Schenectady, New York, is one of the nation's oldest liberal arts colleges with a strong tradition in engineering. The 100-acre campus features a mix of historic and modern facilities, including the recently renovated Integrated Science and Engineering Complex. Union maintains a 10:1 student-faculty ratio and offers a distinctive trimester system that encourages intensive study and research. The college is particularly known for its accelerated law and medicine programs, as well as its innovative interdisciplinary majors.
Union takes pride in its balance of liberal arts and engineering, offering rare undergraduate opportunities in bioengineering, computer engineering, and mechanical engineering within a liberal arts context. Campus life includes NCAA Division I hockey and over 100 student clubs. Recent additions include the Henle Dance Pavilion and the Wold Center for artificial intelligence research. Union's combination of academic flexibility, undergraduate research opportunities, and historic campus creates a dynamic liberal arts experience with unique STEM strengths.
Union College Acceptance Rate
Union College is a well-known institution. It has a selective admission process. The acceptance rate of Union College is 43.79%. This means that 44 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.
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.
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem .
Union College Admission Requirements
Union College GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at Union College is 3.5. Union College 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 3.70-3.90 for this same academic profile.
If your GPA is between 3.2 and 3.5, a strong SAT or ACT score is recommended.
Union College GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Selective; solid academic performance is expected.
Recommended Strategy: Focus on a Strong 'Spike' in extracurriculars or research.
Admissions at Union College utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.5, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
| Candidate GPA Range | Admission Category | Strategic Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 3.50 – 4.00 | Target/Match | Maintain Rigor & High Testing |
| 3.30 – 3.49 | Competitive Match | Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation |
| 3.10 – 3.29 | Secondary Reach | Personal Statement & Impact |
| Below 3.09 | Institutional Reach | Requires Significant Contextual Factors |
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At Union College, 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.
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Calculated via College Portal’s Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards.
Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.
Union College 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 2025 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.
Union College Average SAT Score: 1410
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Union College is 1410 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
This score makes it very Competitive for SAT test scores. You need to do very well to score 1410 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (1480 SAT or 33 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Union College allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 1310, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at Union College.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 | 710 | 660 | 760 |
| SAT Reading | 685 | 650 | 720 |
| SAT Composite | 1410 | 1310 | 1480 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1310 then you are below most of the admitted students at Union College and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1480 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 1400
Can I get into Union College with a 1500 SAT?
With a 1500 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Union College are good but the admission staff at Union College 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.
Union College ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at Union College is 32.
ACT Competitiveness
This score makes Union College very Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do very well to score 32 on the ACT.
ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 30 | 27 | 32 |
| ACT English | 32 | 29 | 35 |
| ACT Composite | 32 | 30 | 33 |
Can I get into Union College with a 33 ACT?
A 33 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at Union College — 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 Union College 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 Union College — 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 Union College 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 33 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 32.Union College Profile
Name: Union College
City: Schenectady
URL: www.union.edu/
State: New York
Type: Non-Profit Private
Zip: 12308-2311
Campus: Main
Accredited by: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)
Can I Get Into Union College Without SAT Or ACT?: Union College 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. 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.
Is a Union College degree Worth It?
Getting into Union College 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. Union College 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 Union College is $79,200 and unemployment rate is 3.16%.
How much does a degree from Union College Cost?The average annual cost of the degree at Union College is $81,627. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Union College is much less than this.
13.15% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 44.66 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Union College and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Union College, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist Union College as your choice in the form.
How much does a Union College Graduate earn?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is $88,604. An average Union College 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
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Union College. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperdine University | Pepperdine University, CA | 1367 | 29 |
| Westmont College | Westmont College, CA | 1367 | 32 |
| United States Air Force Academy | United States Air Force Academy, CO | 1362 | 30 |
| Trinity College | Trinity College, CT | 1396 | 32 |
| American University | American University, DC | 1392 | 31 |
| University of Florida | University of Florida, FL | 1397 | 31 |
| Wheaton College | Wheaton College, IL | 1363 | 30 |
| Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology | Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, IN | 1389 | 32 |
| St. John's College | St. John's College, MD | 1381 | 31 |
| University of Massachusetts-Amherst | University of Massachusetts-Amherst, MA | 1393 | 31 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Union College. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Clara University | Santa Clara University, CA | 1417 | 32 |
| Colorado School of Mines | Colorado School of Mines, CO | 1403 | 31 |
| Connecticut College | Connecticut College, CT | 1412 | 32 |
| University of Miami | University of Miami, FL | 1416 | 32 |
| University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, IL | 1418 | 32 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Union College. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeastern University Oakland | Northeastern University Oakland, CA | 1472 | 32 |
| Occidental College | Occidental College, CA | 1461 | 33 |
| Scripps College | Scripps College, CA | 1480 | 33 |
| Colorado College | Colorado College, CO | 1445 | 33 |
| Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus | Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus, GA | 1447 | 31 |
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Anthropology
- Area Studies
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences
- Biological and Physical Sciences
- Biology, General
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Chemistry
Frequently Asked Questions About Union College Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a high salary, $88,604 annually, depending on the industry.
Question: What is the tuition fee?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is quite high, approximately $81,627 or more per year, so it is important to consider additional funding options.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship ?
Answer: 13.2% 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 institution's official financial aid page for details.
Question: What is the acceptance rate?
Answer: The acceptance rate of Union College is 43.79% 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?
Answer: The average GPA of admitted students is 3.5. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
Question: What is the minimum GPA required for admission?
Answer: 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 3.2, you're in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.2, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
Question: What are my chances with a 3.2 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 3.1 or less, it may makes 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.
Question: Can I apply to Union College if my GPA is below 3.2
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.5, 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
Answer: Admission to Union College is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1410 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1310-1480
Question: Is it possible to transfer from another university?
Answer: 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.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting Admissions?
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 Union College.
Last Updated: Wednesday March 18, 2026
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in November 2025, US Department of Education's latest statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.