The Difficulty of Getting into Catholic Colleges

Hi all, I've been looking into attending Catholic colleges, but I'm curious as to how difficult they are to get into? If anyone has details on what makes specific Catholic colleges harder to gain admission to than others, please do let me know!

Admission difficulty can vary greatly among Catholic colleges, as these institutions are unique in their programs, cultures, and academic rigor. The competitiveness of Catholic colleges like any other higher education institutions, depend largely on factors such as location, size, academic programs, reputation, and selective admissions process.

For example, let's consider two renowned Catholic universities: University of Notre Dame and Georgetown University. Both are known for their rigorous academic programs and strong Catholic identity. As of the 2024-2025 admissions cycle, Notre Dame's acceptance rate hovers around 12%, while Georgetown's is about 13%. This means they're highly selective, with a high GPA and SAT/ACT scores expected. They also put significant weight on service, leadership, extracurricular activities, and commitment to their respective missions - values often emphasized at Catholic institutions.

On the other hand, a school like DePaul University in Chicago, while also a well-regarded Catholic University, has an acceptance rate around 70%, which is more accessible than Notre Dame or Georgetown. DePaul, like many Catholic colleges, values community involvement and service, but the average GPA and test scores for admitted students tend to be lower than at more selective schools.

Ultimately, to enhance your chances of admission, it's key to understand each college's specific expectations. Additionally, they often prioritize candidates who are a good fit with the institution's mission, values, and community. For example, demonstrating a commitment to service, an understanding of the university's Catholic identity, and a genuine interest in contributing to the college's community could increase your chances of admission.

Always research each individual college's admission requirements, as these will provide the best insight into what each institution values in their prospective students.