How selective is Kent State University?

Kent State University maintains moderate selectivity in its admissions process, accepting approximately 86% of applicants. To gain admission, you'll typically need a high school GPA of 3.0 or higher and SAT scores around 1080 or ACT scores around 22, though these requirements can vary by program.

While Kent State's overall admission process is relatively accessible, certain programs within the university are notably more selective. The nursing program, fashion design and merchandising, architecture, and aerospace engineering programs typically require higher academic credentials and may have additional requirements for admission. For these competitive programs, you should aim for a GPA above 3.5 and test scores in the upper ranges of Kent State's typical admitted student profile.

The College of Nursing, in particular, has become increasingly selective due to high demand and limited space. Students interested in nursing should be prepared to maintain excellent grades in prerequisite courses and may need to complete a secondary application process after initial university admission.

For most other majors at Kent State, meeting the standard admission requirements and submitting a complete application by the priority deadline will give you a strong chance of acceptance. The university evaluates applications holistically, considering factors beyond just grades and test scores, including extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and personal essays when making admission decisions.

If your academic metrics fall slightly below Kent State's typical ranges, you may still have options. The university offers conditional admission through their Exploratory Program, which provides additional academic support to help ensure your success. Early application is recommended regardless of your intended major, as it can increase your chances of admission and access to merit-based scholarships.