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The University of the South

Sewanee, TN · Private · 1,607 students

The 13,000-acre campus is known as The Domain.

Acceptance rate

56.9%

SAT (mid 50%)

1260–1390

Avg net price

$31,931

after aid

Testing

Optional

2027 cycle

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2025), and the The University of the South admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

The University of the South admitted 56.9% 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 1260–1390 on the SAT and 27–31 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 The University of the South actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Where voices are heard

Your voice will be heard, your contribution expected, and your opinion considered, challenged, and pushed in new directions, leading to the understanding that maybe everyone is right.

The curriculum offers 38 majors, 44 minors, and 3 certificates, fostering an environment where small classes encourage active participation and diverse perspectives.

  • 38 optionsDiverse fields of study
  • 44 optionsComplementary areas of focus
  • 3 programsSpecialized skill development

Verified from sewanee.edu and new.sewanee.edu and new.sewanee.edu and new.sewanee.edu and new.sewanee.edu and new.sewanee.edu.

Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • TestingOptional (2027 cycle)

Verified from sewanee.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $74,398. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $31,931.

All applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, and additional grants and tuition remissions are available through federal, state, or institutional sources.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $72,175.

Verified from sewanee.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Psychology, General11% of degrees
  • Economics11% of degrees
  • Political Science and Government9% of degrees
  • Biology, General8% of degrees
  • Literature8% of degrees
  • History7% of degrees

Campus life

Here’s the feel of the place.

“Group study with friends, rock climbing on the Domain, or a spontaneous jam session, you'll find community here, but also space when you need it.”

Located atop the Cumberland Plateau, the campus invites exploration, from rock climbing to a stroll through Abbo's Alley.

Outdoor-centricCommunity-focusedRural

Quick answers

What do people ask about The University of the South?

Is The University of the South test-optional?
For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at The University of the South is optional.
How hard is it to get into The University of the South?
Very hard. The University of the South admits 56.9% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1260 to 1390 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
How much does The University of the South cost?
The list price is about $74,398. After aid, families pay $31,931 on average.
Is The University of the South worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $72,175 ten years after enrolling. 79% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.

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Ask Spike anything about The University of the South.

Spike answers from The University of the South’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.