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Elon University

Elon, NC · Private · 6,452 students

The historic Alamance Building and Fonville Fountain anchor a vibrant campus.

Acceptance rate

66.3%

SAT (mid 50%)

1130–1280

Avg net price

$41,555

after aid

Testing

Optional

2027 cycle

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the Elon University admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

Elon University admitted 66.3% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That means most students who apply get in. Your job is to meet the requirements and apply on time.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1130–1280 on the SAT and 23–28 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what Elon University actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Experiential Learning in Action

I enjoy the stimulating, collaborative environment it offers and the focused opportunity to learn fascinating topics within my disciplines that I wouldn’t encounter otherwise.”

The academic calendar includes a month-long Winter Term, offering unique opportunities for global or domestic study.

  • Elon College, the College of Arts and SciencesActing, Anthropology, Computer Science, English, History, Music, Political Scien
  • Martha and Spencer Love School of BusinessAccounting, Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship & Innovation, Finance, Marketin
  • School of CommunicationsCinema & Television Arts, Communication Design, Journalism, Media Analytics, Str

Verified from elon.edu and elon.edu and elon.edu and elon.edu and elon.edu and elon.edu and admissions.elon.edu and elon.edu and elon.edu.

Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • TestingOptional (2027 cycle)

Verified from https://www.elon.edu.

The essays

Here are the supplemental essay prompts.

The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.

  • What at Elon has caught your eye — programs, opportunities, or experiences you can't wait to try?

    Up to 150 words

  • What aspect of your identity do you find most meaningful, and why?

    Up to 200 words

  • Name three songs from your perfect playlist. We look forward to creating a Spotify playlist from your answers.

  • Tell us your top 5. Take this opportunity to let Elon Admissions know more about you. Your top 5 should be something unique to you and will give us a glimpse of who you are. Be creative! You may choose any theme for your top 5.

    Up to 150 words

  • What at Elon has caught your eye—programs, opportunities, or experiences you can't wait to try?

    Up to 150 words

  • Name three songs from your perfect playlist.

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from https://www.elon.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $62,266. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $41,555.

Elon expands financial aid and study abroad scholarships to assist students with global engagement experiences.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $74,545.

Verified from https://www.elon.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication10% of degrees
  • Marketing8% of degrees
  • Radio, Television, and Digital Communication8% of degrees
  • Finance and Financial Management Services8% of degrees
  • Psychology, General7% of degrees
  • Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness5% of degrees

Campus life

Here’s the feel of the place.

“Grab coffee with a faculty mentor, collaborate on a Formula EV car, then cheer on Phoenix athletics, a Tuesday here.”

Students gather for College Coffee, cheer at Rhodes Stadium, and celebrate on Medallion Plaza.

VibrantEngagedOutdoor-centric

Quick answers

What do people ask about Elon University?

Is Elon University test-optional?
For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at Elon University is optional.
How hard is it to get into Elon University?
Very hard. Elon University admits 66.3% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1130 to 1280 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
How much does Elon University cost?
The list price is about $62,266. After aid, families pay $41,555 on average.
Is Elon University worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $74,545 ten years after enrolling. 84% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.

Launching soon

Ask Spike anything about Elon University.

Spike answers from Elon University’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.