Last Updated: Sunday May 17, 2026  ·  Source: IPEDS & College Scorecard Nov 2025
Lincoln University — Acceptance Rate and Admission Requirements
Public Accredited · Middle States Commission on Higher Education Lincoln University, Pennsylvania 78.4% Acceptance Rate

Lincoln University Acceptance Rate, GPA, and Admission Requirements

📍 Lincoln University, Pennsylvania 19352-0999 🏛️ Main Campus 🌐 www.lincoln.edu/

Lincoln University — Admission Snapshot 2026

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

78.4%Acceptance Rate
3.06Avg GPA
984Avg SAT
20Avg ACT
$27,358Annual Cost
$43,167Grad Salary
66.3%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
78.4%
Avg GPA
3.06
Avg SAT
984
Avg ACT
20
Selectivity
Inclusive
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
SAT Middle 50%
870–1050
ACT Middle 50%
18–22
Avg Net Price
$12,912
Need-Based Aid
66.3% receive Pell

Lincoln University Acceptance Rate

Lincoln University maintains an inclusive admission policy. With an acceptance rate of 78.4%, 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
Lincoln University Selectivity Meter
Selectivity scale: Inclusive — 78.4% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)

Recommended Academic Profile

Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.06 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
2.86 – 3.05
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 2.61
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.

Lincoln University GPA Requirement

The average GPA of admitted students at Lincoln University is 3.06. This suggests moderate selectivity.

A mix of A's, B's, and some C's is common. Higher SAT/ACT scores can compensate for a lower GPA.

Note: This is an unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with AP or IB courses will typically have a weighted GPA of 3.26-3.46 for this same academic profile.

If your GPA is between 2.76 and 3.06, aim for a strong standardized test score.

Lincoln University GPA & Admission Outlook

Assessment: Holistic review is critical for admission.

Recommended Strategy: Requires Contextual Factors (Leadership, hardship, or talent).

Admissions at Lincoln University utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.06, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.

Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.06 – 4.00
Strategic Reach
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
2.86 – 3.05
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
2.66 – 2.85
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 2.65
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors

Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics

  • The Rigor Metric: At Lincoln 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 Lincoln University

Admission Chance Predictor

Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on Lincoln 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.

Lincoln 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 Lincoln University Without SAT or ACT?

Lincoln 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.

Lincoln University Average SAT Score: 984

The average SAT score of the admitted students at Lincoln University is 984 on the 1600 SAT scale.

SAT Competitiveness

Lincoln University SAT Competitiveness
SAT 984 — Accessible

This score makes it an easy target for SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 984 on the SAT.

SAT Math
470
SAT Reading
490
Composite
984
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1050 SAT or 22 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Lincoln 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 870, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at Lincoln 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 Lincoln University
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
SAT Math470420520
SAT Reading490450530
SAT Composite9848701050

It means that if you have scored less than 870 then you are below most of the admitted students at Lincoln University and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1050 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 1000

Can I get into Lincoln University with a 1050 SAT?

With a 1050 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Lincoln University are good but the admission staff at Lincoln 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.

Lincoln University ACT Requirements

The average ACT Score at Lincoln University is 20.

ACT Competitiveness

Lincoln University ACT Competitiveness
ACT 20 — Less Competitive

This score makes Lincoln University less competitive for ACT scores. You need to put average efforts to score 20 on the ACT.

ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections

ACT score percentiles for Lincoln University
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
ACT Math191621
ACT English191721
ACT Composite201822

Can I get into Lincoln University with a 22 ACT?

A 22 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at Lincoln 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 Lincoln 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 Lincoln 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 Lincoln 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 22 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 20

Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for Lincoln University

Accessible Strategy: Academic Foundation

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

Lincoln University Profile

Full Name
Lincoln University
City
Lincoln University
State
Pennsylvania
ZIP Code
19352-0999
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)

Is a Lincoln University Degree Worth It?

Getting into Lincoln 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. Lincoln 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 Lincoln University is $51,400 and the graduate unemployment rate is 5.98%.

How much does a degree from Lincoln University Cost?

The average annual cost of the degree at Lincoln University is $27,358. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Lincoln University is $12,912.

66.3% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 83.5 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Lincoln University and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.

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

How much does a Lincoln University Graduate earn?

The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $43,167. An average Lincoln 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.

$27,358Annual Cost
$12,912Net Price
66.3%Pell Grant
83.5%Federal Loan
$43,167Grad Salary (10yr)

Compare Similar Colleges

Less Competitive

Less Competitive Schools

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

SchoolLocationSATACT
Alabama A & M University Normal, AL 947 17
Johnson University Florida Kissimmee, FL 940 NA
Warner University Lake Wales, FL 937 17
Clayton State University Morrow, GA 973 18
Gordon State College Barnesville, GA 950 18
University of Hawaii-West Oahu Kapolei, HI 973 18
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College Saint Mary of the Woods, IN 966 17
Baker University Baldwin City, KS 950 17
Union Commonwealth University Barbourville, KY 965 18
Grambling State University Grambling, LA 955 17
Same Competitive

Equally Competitive Schools

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

SchoolLocationSATACT
Alabama State University Montgomery, AL 977 18
Baptist Health College Little Rock Little Rock, AR 980 20
University of Bridgeport Bridgeport, CT 985 NA
Delaware State University Dover, DE 984 24
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Tifton, GA 994 19
More Competitive

More Competitive Schools

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

SchoolLocationSATACT
Faulkner University Montgomery, AL 1016 20
Jacksonville State University Jacksonville, AL 1055 21
University of West Alabama Livingston, AL 1015 20
Marion Military Institute Marion, AL 1043 20
University of Arkansas at Little Rock Little Rock, AR 1049 21

Degree Programs at Lincoln University

Bachelor Degree Programs

Full list of all degree programs offered by Lincoln University →

Frequently Asked Questions About Lincoln University Admissions

Graduates of this university typically earn a lower salary, $43,167 annually, especially in non-technical fields.

The tuition fee at this university is relatively low, around $27,358 per year, making it more affordable for many students.

66.3% of students at this university receive a Pell Grant — free money that does not need to be repaid. Your chances of need-based aid are strong. Submit your FAFSA as early as possible and list this institution as your choice to be considered for maximum aid.

The acceptance rate of Lincoln University is 78.4% 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 3.06. 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 2.76, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 2.76, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.

If your GPA is 2.66 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 3.06, 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 Lincoln University is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 984 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 870–1050.

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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