Colleges and universities may get more applications from students than they have the room to provide an education to. Many colleges have limitations on how many students may get acceptance into programs of study, too. Some grad schools have a higher acceptance rate than others. That means that more people who apply may be accepted into the program.
A grad school with a higher acceptance rate may be a bit easier to get into for some students. There may be less competition for spots available. There may also be smaller class sizes in some programs. Some schools are so well known that many people apply to them. That means that if they only have 1,000 spots to offer, a lot of people may get a denial of acceptance. That does not mean you are not college material. It may just mean other people have skills or qualifications that are a bit better.
Finding Grad Schools with High Acceptance Rates
It is a great idea to spend some time considering what you wish to study and then looking for colleges that offer programs that fit your need. From there, devise a strategy to help you to compare several schools that may offer high acceptance rates. Many schools publish this information on their website. You also need to consider what the school looks at to determine if a person is eligible for enrollment. If you are unsure you fit, contact the school to ask.
Map Your Strategy
One strategy is to look for schools that have shown themselves to be a little less selective in certain areas. That’s because grad schools with higher acceptance rates may view your application in a holistic manner. For instance, there are plenty of grad schools that accept a low GPA and other graduate schools that don’t require letters of recommendation. However, bear in mind that just because a university as a whole has a relatively high acceptance rate doesn’t mean the specific graduate program you’re applying to may be the same—and it might be a different story for transfer students.
Conduct Your Future Follow-Up
Graduate school acceptance rates and other prerequisites may vary by program and subject area and change from year to year. So, while this is a great starting point, make sure you follow up for more information by clicking on any of the sponsored listings below.
List of Graduate Schools with High Acceptance Rates
Take a look at some of the grad schools with high acceptance rates. We made this list of easy grad schools to get into based on acceptance rates. We’ve also included a look at minimum GPA because the lower the accepted grade of a school for any program, the easier it may be to get into. This information is based on College Scorecard data.
*Sponsored schools
| School Name | Acceptance Rate | Minimum GPA |
|---|---|---|
| New England College | 100% | 2.75 |
| Dixie State University | 100% | 3.00 |
| Wilmington University | 100% | 3.00 |
| Cameron University | 100% | 3.00 |
| Capella University | Open Access | 2.3 – 3.0, varies by program |
| Western Governors University | 100% | 2.5 |
| Strayer University | Open Access | 2.5 |
| Dickinson State University | 100% | 3.00 |
| Goddard College | 100% | 3.15 |
| Granite State College | 100% | 3.00 |
| Broward College | 100% | 3.15 |
| Cameron University | 100% | 3.00 |
| Delta State University | 100% | 3.00 |
| Weber State University | 100% | 3.00 |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | 100% | 3.00 |
| Alabama State University | 99% | 2.5 |
| Milligan University | 99% | 3.00 |
| Benedictine University | 97% | 2.9 |
| Cleveland State University | 94% | 3.00 |
| University of Wyoming | 94% | 3.00 |
| Walden University | 93% | 3.00 |
| Boston Architectural University | 92% | 3.15 |
| University of South Dakota | 91% | 3.00 |
| University of Kansas | 91% | 3.00 |
| John Carroll University | 88% | 3.00 |
| Iowa State University | 88% | 3.00 |
| Utica College | 87% | 3.00 |
| West Virginia University | 84% | 2.75 |
| Bob Jones University | 82% | 3.00 |
| Quinnipiac University | 82% | 3.00 |
| California State University – Bakersfield | 80% | 2.5 |
| Loyola University Maryland | 80% | 3.00 |
| University of Portland | 77% | 3.00 |
| Drexel University | 77% | 3.00 |
| Boise State University | 77% | 3.00 |
| Duquesne University | 77% | 3.5 |
| LaSalle University | 76% | 3.00 |
| Golden Gate University | 75% | 3.00 |
| Simmons College | 73% | 3.00 |
| St. John’s University | 72% | 3.5 |
| Loyola University Chicago | 71% | 2.7 |
| Regis University | 71% | 2.9 |
| Wayne State University | 69% | 3.00 |
| La Roche University | 69% | 3.00 |
| University of San Francisco | 66% | 2.75 |
| Liberty University | 66% | 2.5 |
| Sacred Heart University | 64% | 3.2 |
| Clemson University | 62% | 3.3 |
Graduate School Enrollment Requirements
Each graduate school sets its own requirements for students. These requirements typically are a set number of qualifications a person needs to meet to get consideration from the college. Some people believe that getting into grad school is very difficult to do. Some schools have very limited and even downright challenging requirements. That is not the case for all colleges.
Yet, many students may find options that allow them entrance into these programs even if they think they do not qualify. Do you meet the grad school prerequisites?
Some of the grad school requirements you may find for many grad schools include the following:
- Bachelor’s: Many colleges require students to finish four years of college education and have a baccalaureate.
- Academic standing: Many colleges want to ensure that the student is in high academic standing at their previous college or university.
- GPA: Some colleges require grad students to have a specific grade point average (GPA). This is not always the highest score. Some schools require a 2.0, 2.5, or 3.0. Each college sets its own requirements.
- Transcripts: You may need to submit transcripts that show that you finished courses that are a requirement for the grad program. Some schools have very specific transcript requirements, while others do not.
- Acceptable test scores: As noted, college entrance exams are somewhat common for grad school. Some schools list the acceptable scores they consider, while others may not provide that information.
- Other requirements may include professional licensing or portfolios (depending on the education sector) or academic experience applicable to the program the student hopes to enroll into
In each of these situations, the student needs to be able to clearly show they qualify. For example, grad school is typically not available to students who do not have a bachelor’s. You may have to show your certificate and proof of your bachelor’s to enroll in a grad program.
When it comes to program-specific requirements, you may need to show that you have finished the specific programs necessary. For example, that may mean you need to have taken courses in a specific field of study. You may have to have a bachelor’s in a specific field related to the grad program. Not just any bachelor’s works.
Unsure you meet the requirements? Consider these tips
1. Do your research
Each school and program is different when it comes to enrollment. It follows that there’s no single answer regarding how to present yourself to them. Look at their requirements, the school’s values, and the types of experiences they offer. If possible, tailor your application to emphasize the things they value. Both nonprofit and for-profit schools may be an option.
2. Get experience outside the classroom
While your studies are crucial, the classroom isn’t the only place you’re able to learn. Enhance your grad school application with volunteer, internship, or other work experience related to your area of study. This applies outside your discipline as well. Community service and volunteer opportunities could help you show how well-rounded you are.
3. Rock those test scores
While grad school entrance exams aren’t always required, they could still be an opportunity to demonstrate your academic skills. For instance, many grad schools that don’t require the GRE still allow you to submit your scores. Therefore, a great score is unlikely to never hurt your chances. Your ACT and SAT scores may help in some cases.
4. Go the extra mile for the better colleges
Many graduate schools look at applicants holistically, so make sure to spend time on each aspect of your application. For example, prepare for your interviews beforehand and spend extra time writing and polishing your personal essays and other writing samples. Demonstrate your personality, dedication, and professionalism.
- Take A Trial Course On Us. Experience the flexibility of learning online and get a feel for what it’s really like to be a student at Capella.
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Should you consider grad schools with high acceptance rates?
Finding the perfect graduate program for you isn’t easy. After all, you have to identify what degree you want, find schools offering that degree, and a specific subject area. Then you need to compare the admissions requirements of each school to see if you get in. Luckily, there are plenty of grad schools with high acceptance rates. Check out some of the partner schools in the table below.
- Award-winning programs created to help you succeed.
- A quality education doesn’t have to be expensive. Earn an accredited degree for less.
- Programs started monthly – Apply free this week!
Finding Graduate Programs with High Acceptance Rates
Can you find graduate programs with high acceptance rates?
One of the more challenging aspects of applying to grad school is that every program has unique requirements, even at the same school. That’s why it’s always a good idea to check with each department or program before applying. Some other ideas and facts are listed below.
A diverse bunch to choose from
Luckily, just like students are diverse, so are graduate schools. So, while Harvard or Yale might be a little too competitive for you, there are plenty of other potential options. But how do you find them?
Map your strategy
One strategy is to look for schools that have shown themselves to be a little less selective in certain areas. That’s because grad schools with higher acceptance rates may view your application in a holistic manner. For instance, there are plenty of grad schools that accept a low GPA and other graduate schools that don’t require letters of recommendation. However, bear in mind that just because a university as a whole has a relatively high acceptance rate, doesn’t mean the specific graduate program you’re applying to may be the same—and it might be a different story for transfer students.
Conduct your future follow-up
Graduate school acceptance rates and other prerequisites may vary by program and subject area and change from year to year. So, while this is a good starting point, make sure you follow up for more information by clicking on any of the sponsored listings below.
Making your decision
There is more to consider, too, when choosing the best colleges for you. Graduate students need to find the school that fits their needs. That may mean considering where alumni work. It may also include looking at graduation rate. Like you did when applying to high school, learn as much as possible about the higher education program. Be sure it is the type of school that fits your career goals. The best colleges for doctoral study offer a wide range of opportunity to meet your goals.
Whether you plan to go to law school or complete education in the undergraduate degree you already have, seek out a school you want to be a part of. College admissions often sense the passion a study has for what he or she wishes to do. Also, don’t forget online schools. You may use a two-year program online to help you meet your career objectives as well online. Or, embrace the main campus of a private university to attend full time. The options are numerous.
Selectivity for programs differs from school to school. That includes for domestic and international students.
Schools With PHD & Masters Programs
- Take A Trial Course On Us. Experience the flexibility of learning online and get a feel for what it’s really like to be a student at Capella.
- Capella University is an accredited online university offering PhD, professional doctorate, master’s and bachelor’s programs.
- Relevant, Recognized, Respected—Learn More About Capella’s Online Programs. No GMAT or GRE required.
- Award-winning programs created to help you succeed.
- A quality education doesn’t have to be expensive. Earn an accredited degree for less.
- Programs started monthly – Apply free this week!
