COLLEGE PROFILE
How to Get Into Fordham in 2026
Jesuit university with Lincoln Center and Rose Hill campuses in NYC.
Quick Answer
Fordham University has a 46% acceptance rate with a middle 50% SAT range of 1280-1440 and average GPA of 3.65. Jesuit university with Lincoln Center and Rose Hill campuses in NYC. Founded 1841 in New York, NY.
Admissions Snapshot
| Acceptance Rate | 46%Selective |
| SAT Range (25th-75th) | 1280 - 1440 |
| Average GPA (Unweighted) | 3.65 |
| Undergraduate Enrollment | 10,100 |
| School Type | Private |
| Location | New York, NY |
| Founded | 1841 |
| Test Policy | Test-Optional |
| Need-Blind | No |
| Meets 100% Need | No |
Data source: IPEDS College Navigator and institutional Common Data Set (most recent available year). Data lags approximately one year.
What Fordham Values Most (CDS Data)
Who Gets Into Fordham: 4 Composite Profiles
These are composite profiles based on publicly available admissions patterns. They do not represent real individuals.
The Academic Powerhouse
Near-perfect GPA and test scores. Strong in STEM or humanities. Multiple AP/IB courses with 5s and 7s. Research experience or independent project.
The Community Builder
Founded or led a significant student organization. Demonstrated measurable community impact. Strong essays connecting service to personal growth.
The Specialized Expert
Deep expertise in one field — national competition winner, published research, or professional-level skill. Clear spike that makes the application memorable.
The Versatile Contributor
Strong across multiple areas without being the best at any single one. Excellent writer who connects diverse experiences into a coherent narrative.
Fordham Essay Strategy
Fordham's supplemental essays are your chance to demonstrate genuine fit. The "Why Fordham?" essay must reference specific programs, professors, courses, or campus resources. Generic essays about prestige or location are immediately recognizable and ineffective.
Read the Fordham Essay GuideApplication Strategy: ED vs EA vs RD
At 46% acceptance rate, strong applicants have solid chances in any round. Focus on essay quality over application timing.
Read our ED vs EA vs RD strategy guide →Use the Fordham Fit Worksheet
Score your profile against Fordham's admissions criteria. See where you stand across 7 dimensions calibrated to real CDS data. Free, no signup required.
Get Your Free Fordham Fit ScoreFrequently Asked Questions
What is Fordham's acceptance rate?
Fordham University's acceptance rate is approximately 46% based on the most recent Common Data Set. This rate can vary by year and by application round (ED, EA, RD).
What SAT score do I need for Fordham?
The middle 50% SAT range for Fordham is 1280-1440. Scoring above 1440 does not guarantee admission, and scoring below 1280 does not mean rejection — holistic review considers the full application.
What GPA do I need to get into Fordham?
The average unweighted GPA of admitted students at Fordham is approximately 3.65. Course rigor (AP/IB/dual enrollment) matters as much as the GPA number itself.
Does Fordham have Early Decision?
Check Fordham's admissions website at fordham.edu/admissions for the most current information on early application options. Policies can change year to year.
Is Fordham test-optional?
Yes, Fordham is currently test-optional. Test policies can change each admissions cycle.
How many students attend Fordham?
Fordham University has approximately 10,100 undergraduate students. As a private university, class sizes tend to be smaller.
What is Fordham known for?
Jesuit university with Lincoln Center and Rose Hill campuses in NYC.
More Fordham Resources
Written by AdmitPath team
Data sourced from IPEDS College Navigator and Fordham's Common Data Set. CDS publication year noted — data may lag one year.
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