Bethlehem, PA · Admissions

Lehigh University

Acceptance Rate & How to Get In

Lehigh University has a 28% acceptance rate, making it very selective — competitive, but within reach for strong applicants. Admitted students score around 1310–1470 on the SAT. Here is what the numbers say it takes to get in.

28%
Acceptance rate
1310–1470
SAT (mid 50%)
30–34
ACT (mid 50%)
Test-optional
Testing

How hard is it to get into Lehigh?

With a 28% acceptance rate, Lehigh University is very selective — competitive, but within reach for strong applicants. It enrolls roughly 5,500 undergraduates (small city setting) in Bethlehem, PA. Solid grades, a sensible test plan, and thoughtful essays go a long way here.

What it takes to get in

  • SAT: admitted students land around 1310–1470 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
  • ACT: the middle 50% is about 30–34.
  • GPA: admitted students average around 3.74. Rigor (APs/IB/honors) matters as much as the number.
  • Testing policy: Test-optional. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
  • Essays: at Lehigh's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $62,100 per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Engineering · Business · Arts & Sciences

See Lehigh’s supplemental essay guide

Score your Lehigh essays, free

Great numbers get you in the room; the essays get you in. Paste your draft into Halo for instant, rubric-based feedback. Halo never writes your essay for you.

Try Halo free

Lehigh admissions FAQ

What is Lehigh University's acceptance rate?
Lehigh University's acceptance rate is 28%, which makes it very selective — competitive, but within reach for strong applicants.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for Lehigh?
Admitted students typically score about 1310–1470 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 30–34 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is Lehigh test-optional?
Lehigh University's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on Lehigh University’s official admissions site.