It's Better At Bucknell!

Exploring Bucknell University: A Comprehensive Look at Admissions, Academics, and Student Life

Choosing the right university is a significant decision, and understanding what sets each institution apart is key. At Bucknell University, the combination of a liberal arts foundation and professional programs creates a unique academic experience. As one of the largest liberal arts colleges in the country, Bucknell provides students with diverse opportunities for exploration, engagement, and success.

Why Bucknell?

Bucknell University is home to approximately 3,900 students, positioning it among the largest liberal arts institutions in the nation. Unlike many schools of its size, Bucknell seamlessly integrates its liberal arts core with professional programs in business and engineering. This intersection allows students to engage in interdisciplinary learning, preparing them for a wide range of careers.

Students at Bucknell can choose from nearly 65 majors and 70 minors across three distinct colleges:

• College of Arts & Sciences (50% of students)

• Freeman College of Management (20%)

• College of Engineering (20%)

One of Bucknell’s standout features is the ability for students to major or minor across colleges, fostering a dynamic and well-rounded education.

A Strong Academic Reputation

Bucknell is consistently ranked among the top institutions in the country, with particularly high recognition in engineering, business, and liberal arts disciplines. For example:

• Engineering: Ranked among the top five nationally.

• Business: Ranked in the top 25 U.S. business schools.

• Mid-Career Salary & Lifetime Earnings: Ranked in the top 10-12 among liberal arts schools.

For students interested in engineering, Bucknell is committed to diversity and inclusion, with women making up approximately 33% of the engineering student body. The university recently celebrated 100 years of women in engineering, highlighting its long-standing commitment to progress.

Admissions & Application Process

The admissions process at Bucknell is highly selective, with an acceptance rate fluctuating between 28-32% in recent years. Approximately 60% of the incoming class is admitted through Early Decision (ED1 and ED2), reflecting a strong preference for students who demonstrate a high level of interest in Bucknell.

Key Deadlines:

• Early Decision 1 (ED1): November 1 (decisions by mid-December)

• Early Decision 2 (ED2): January 10 (decisions by mid-February)

• Regular Decision: January 10 (decisions by late March)

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Holistic Admissions Review

Bucknell employs a team-based application review process, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of each applicant. The review process takes into account:

• Academic Rigor: AP, IB, or honors coursework within the context of the high school’s curriculum.

• Extracurricular Involvement: Leadership, community service, sports, and unique personal responsibilities.

• Personal Statement & Supplemental Essay: Applicants must answer why they are interested in their chosen major(s) and why Bucknell is the right fit.

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Financial Aid & Scholarships

Bucknell is committed to making education accessible, offering both need-based financial aid and merit-based scholarships. The university utilizes both the FAFSA and CSS Profile to determine financial aid eligibility.

Merit-Based Scholarships:

• Dean’s Scholarship: Up to 450 awarded annually, valued at $20,000 per year.

• Arts Merit & Community Engagement Scholarships: Available for students demonstrating exceptional talent or commitment in these areas.

• Need-Based Aid: Requires completion of the CSS Profile and FAFSA.

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Campus Life & Student Engagement

Bucknell is known for its vibrant student life, with numerous clubs, organizations, and research opportunities. The university has recently expanded its facilities, including the Center for Access and Success, Center for Data Science, and Center for Entrepreneurship. Students also benefit from state-of-the-art residence halls, with five new buildings added in recent years.

Exclusive Programs for Prospective Students

Bucknell offers two unique pre-college programs for high school students:

1. Bucknell Academy Summer Experience (BASE): A one-week summer program for rising juniors and seniors to experience a liberal arts education.

2. Journey to Bucknell: A fall fly-in program designed for underrepresented and marginalized students, covering travel and housing costs.

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Exploring Lewisburg: A True College Town

Located in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, Bucknell offers a quintessential college town experience. With charming local businesses, restaurants, and cultural attractions, Lewisburg provides an engaging backdrop for students’ academic journeys.

Final Thoughts

Bucknell University combines the best aspects of a liberal arts education with strong professional programs, offering students unparalleled opportunities for academic and personal growth. With a commitment to holistic admissions, financial support, and an engaging campus community, Bucknell is an excellent choice for students looking to thrive in a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment.

For those considering Bucknell, visiting campus—either in person or through the Virtual Welcome Center—is highly encouraged. Whether through an admissions tour, a fly-in program, or a summer experience, there are plenty of ways to explore what Bucknell has to offer.