Last Updated: Sunday May 17, 2026  ·  Source: IPEDS & College Scorecard Nov 2025
University of Oregon (UO) — Acceptance Rate and Admission Requirements
Public Accredited · Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities Eugene, Oregon 85.1% Acceptance Rate

University of Oregon (UO) Acceptance Rate, GPA, and Admission Requirements

📍 Eugene, Oregon 97403 🏛️ Main Campus 🌐 https://www.uoregon.edu/

University of Oregon — Admission Snapshot 2026

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

85.1%Acceptance Rate
3.73Avg GPA
1257Avg SAT
26Avg ACT
$32,636Annual Cost
$61,324Grad Salary
22%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
85.1%
Avg GPA
3.73
Avg SAT
1257
Avg ACT
26
Selectivity
Inclusive
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
SAT Middle 50%
1130–1360
ACT Middle 50%
22–30
Avg Net Price
$21,782
Need-Based Aid
22% receive Pell

University of Oregon Acceptance Rate

University of Oregon (UO) maintains an inclusive admission policy. With an acceptance rate of 85.1%, 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
University of Oregon Selectivity Meter
Selectivity scale: Inclusive — 85.1% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)

Recommended Academic Profile

Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.73 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.53 – 3.72
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 3.28
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.

UO GPA Requirement

The average GPA of the admitted students at UO is 3.73. UO 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 3.93-4.13 for this same academic profile.

If your GPA is between 3.43 and 3.73, a strong SAT or ACT score is recommended.

UO GPA & Admission Outlook

Assessment: Highly selective; GPA is within the typical admitted range.

Recommended Strategy: Standardized Test Scores (SAT/ACT) in the top 5th percentile.

Admissions at UO utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.73, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.

Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.73 – 4.00
Competitive Reach
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.53 – 3.72
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
3.33 – 3.52
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 3.32
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors

Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics

  • The Rigor Metric: At UO, 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 UO

Admission Chance Predictor

Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on University of Oregon'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 Oregon (UO) 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 UO Without SAT or ACT?

University of Oregon 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.

University of Oregon Average SAT Score: 1257

The average SAT score of the admitted students at University of Oregon is 1257 on the 1600 SAT scale.

SAT Competitiveness

University of Oregon SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1257 — Slightly Competitive

This score makes it slightly Competitive for SAT test scores. You need to do well to score 1257 on the SAT.

SAT Math
610
SAT Reading
635
Composite
1257
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1360 SAT or 30 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. University of Oregon allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.

If your score is below 1130, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at UO. 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 University of Oregon
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
SAT Math610550670
SAT Reading635580690
SAT Composite125711301360

It means that if you have scored less than 1130 then you are below most of the admitted students at UO and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1360 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 1250

Can I get into University of Oregon (UO) with a 1350 SAT?

With a 1350 SAT Score, your chances of admission at University of Oregon (UO) are good but the admission staff at UO 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 Oregon (UO) ACT Requirements

The average ACT Score at UO is 26.

ACT Competitiveness

University of Oregon ACT Competitiveness
ACT 26 — Competitive

This score makes University of Oregon Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do well to score 26 on the ACT.

ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections

ACT score percentiles for University of Oregon
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
ACT Math242028
ACT English272132
ACT Composite262230

Can I get into University of Oregon with a 30 ACT?

A 30 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at University of Oregon — 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 Oregon 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 Oregon — 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 Oregon 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 30 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 26

Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for UO

Accessible Strategy: Academic Foundation

UO 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 UO to ensure your high school electives align with your intended major.

UO Profile

Full Name
University of Oregon (UO)
City
Eugene
State
Oregon
ZIP Code
97403
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

Is a UO Degree Worth It?

Getting into UO 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. UO 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 UO is $62,300 and the graduate unemployment rate is 3.81%.

How much does a degree from UO Cost?

The average annual cost of the degree at University of Oregon is $32,636. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at University of Oregon is $21,782.

22% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 30.9 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to UO and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.

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

How much does a UO Graduate earn?

The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $61,324. An average UO 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.

$32,636Annual Cost
$21,782Net Price
22%Pell Grant
30.9%Federal Loan
$61,324Grad Salary (10yr)

Compare Similar Colleges

Less Competitive

Less Competitive Schools

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

SchoolLocationSATACT
University of Mobile Mobile, AL 1220 24
John Brown University Siloam Springs, AR 1222 26
Ouachita Baptist University Arkadelphia, AR 1212 25
California Lutheran University Thousand Oaks, CA 1224 26
University of Redlands Redlands, CA 1231 28
University of Hartford West Hartford, CT 1207 29
Quinnipiac University Hamden, CT 1212 27
Florida Institute of Technology Melbourne, FL 1213 26
Jacksonville University Jacksonville, FL 1211 26
University of South Florida Tampa, FL 1235 27
Same Competitive

Equally Competitive Schools

These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as University of Oregon. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.

SchoolLocationSATACT
University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham, AL 1251 26
University of Arizona Tucson, AZ 1261 26
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott Prescott, AZ 1256 27
Biola University La Mirada, CA 1258 27
Eckerd College Saint Petersburg, FL 1256 27
More Competitive

More Competitive Schools

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

SchoolLocationSATACT
University of Alabama in Huntsville Huntsville, AL 1321 28
The University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, AL 1287 28
Auburn University Auburn, AL 1318 28
Hendrix College Conway, AR 1336 29
University of the Pacific Stockton, CA 1303 27

Degree Programs at UO

Bachelor Degree Programs

Full list of all degree programs offered by University of Oregon →

Frequently Asked Questions About UO Admissions

Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $61,324 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.

The tuition fee at this university is moderate, around $32,636 per year. Many students seek financial aid and scholarships to manage the cost.

22.0% 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 Oregon is 85.1% 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 3.73. 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 3.43, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.43, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.

If your GPA is 3.33 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 3.73, 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 Oregon is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1257 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1130–1360.

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

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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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