Southern Adventist University, established in 1892 in Collegedale, Tennessee, is a private Christian university affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Ranked #38 in Regional Universities South by U.S. News, it offers a faith-based education with programs in nursing, business, and theology. The 1,300-acre campus features modern labs, a broadcasting station, and a scenic location near the Smoky Mountains.
Southern Adventist University Acceptance Rate
Southern Adventist University is somewhat selective in its admission process. The acceptance rate of Southern Adventist University is 66.61%. This means that 67 out of every 100 applicants get admitted.
Admissions Guidelines
- Broad Evaluation: Personal growth and vocational goals are considered alongside grades.
- Flexible Standards: Strengths in extracurriculars can often balance an average GPA.
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem .
Southern Adventist University Admission Requirements
Southern Adventist University GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at Southern Adventist University is 3.59. Southern Adventist 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 3.79-3.99 for this same academic profile.
If your GPA is between 3.29 and 3.59, a strong SAT or ACT score is recommended.
Southern Adventist University GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Selective; solid academic performance is expected.
Recommended Strategy: Focus on a Strong 'Spike' in extracurriculars or research.
Admissions at Southern Adventist University utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.59, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
| Candidate GPA Range | Admission Category | Strategic Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 3.59 – 4.00 | Target/Match | Maintain Rigor & High Testing |
| 3.39 – 3.58 | Competitive Match | Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation |
| 3.19 – 3.38 | Secondary Reach | Personal Statement & Impact |
| Below 3.18 | Institutional Reach | Requires Significant Contextual Factors |
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At Southern Adventist 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.
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.
Southern Adventist 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 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.
Southern Adventist University Average SAT Score: 1116
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Southern Adventist University is 1116 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
This score makes it less competitive for SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 1116 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (1270 SAT or 26 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Southern Adventist 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 970, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at Southern Adventist 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
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 545 | 470 | 620 |
| SAT Reading | 575 | 500 | 650 |
| SAT Composite | 1116 | 970 | 1270 |
It means that if you have scored less than 970 then you are below most of the admitted students at Southern Adventist University and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1270 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 1100
Can I get into Southern Adventist University with a 1250 SAT?
With a 1250 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Southern Adventist University are good but the admission staff at Southern Adventist 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.
Southern Adventist University ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at Southern Adventist University is 22.
ACT Competitiveness
This score makes Southern Adventist University slightly Competitive for ACT scores. You need to well to score 22 on the ACT.
ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 21 | 17 | 25 |
| ACT English | 23 | 18 | 27 |
| ACT Composite | 22 | 18 | 26 |
Can I get into Southern Adventist University with a 26 ACT?
A 26 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at Southern Adventist 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 Southern Adventist 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 Southern Adventist 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 Southern Adventist 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 26 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 22.Southern Adventist University Profile
Name: Southern Adventist University
City: Collegedale
URL: www.southern.edu/
State: Tennessee
Type: Non-Profit Private
Zip: 37315-0370
Campus: Main
Accredited by: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Can I Get Into Southern Adventist University Without SAT Or ACT?: Southern Adventist 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. 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 Southern Adventist University degree Worth It?
Getting into Southern Adventist 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. Southern Adventist 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 Southern Adventist University is $60,100 and unemployment rate is 3.23%.
How much does a degree from Southern Adventist University Cost?The average annual cost of the degree at Southern Adventist University is $37,875. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Southern Adventist University is much less than this.
30.92% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 43.72 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Southern Adventist University and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Southern Adventist University, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist Southern Adventist University as your choice in the form.
How much does a Southern Adventist University Graduate earn?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is $53,723. An average Southern Adventist 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
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Southern Adventist University. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auburn University at Montgomery | Auburn University at Montgomery, AL | 1090 | 21 |
| Spring Hill College | Spring Hill College, AL | 1090 | 22 |
| Troy University | Troy University, AL | 1086 | 22 |
| Grand Canyon University | Grand Canyon University, AZ | 1095 | 22 |
| University of the Ozarks | University of the Ozarks, AR | 1088 | 21 |
| Pacific Union College | Pacific Union College, CA | 1093 | 22 |
| Fort Lewis College | Fort Lewis College, CO | 1084 | 20 |
| Colorado Mesa University | Colorado Mesa University, CO | 1070 | 23 |
| University of Northern Colorado | University of Northern Colorado, CO | 1077 | 22 |
| Central Connecticut State University | Central Connecticut State University, CT | 1091 | 24 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Southern Adventist University. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of South Alabama | University of South Alabama, AL | 1119 | 23 |
| Tuskegee University | Tuskegee University, AL | 1121 | 22 |
| Arkansas State University | Arkansas State University, AR | 1119 | 22 |
| University of Central Arkansas | University of Central Arkansas, AR | 1117 | 22 |
| University of La Verne | University of La Verne, CA | 1116 | 22 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Southern Adventist University. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Huntingdon College | Huntingdon College, AL | 1148 | 23 |
| University of Arkansas | University of Arkansas, AR | 1174 | 25 |
| Harding University | Harding University, AR | 1187 | 25 |
| Azusa Pacific University | Azusa Pacific University, CA | 1155 | 22 |
| Dominican University of California | Dominican University of California, CA | 1194 | 26 |
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Accounting and Related Services
- Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Archeology
- Bible/Biblical Studies
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences
- Biology, General
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services
Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Adventist University Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $53,723 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.
Question: What is the tuition fee?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is moderate, around $37,875 per year. Many students seek financial aid and scholarships to manage the cost.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship ?
Answer: 30.9% 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.
Question: What is the acceptance rate?
Answer: The acceptance rate of Southern Adventist University is 66.61% 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 3.59. 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 3.29, you're in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.29, 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 3.29 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 3.19 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 Southern Adventist University if my GPA is below 3.29
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.59, 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 Southern Adventist University is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1116 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 970-1270
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 Southern Adventist University.
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.