Butler University
The Vibe Check
Butler offers a close-knit, community-focused campus vibe where students feel known and supported, set against the backdrop of a bustling city. The historic, tree-lined campus feels like a classic college quad, but with the energy of Indianapolis just minutes away. It's a place where you can find your people quickly and still have big-city opportunities at your doorstep.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
Butler is known for its strong programs in business, health professions, and communications, with a focus on hands-on learning and real-world application. The university emphasizes undergraduate research and offers personalized attention through small class sizes and accessible faculty. Students benefit from a curriculum that integrates professional experience and community engagement.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Indianapolis
Students enjoy Indianapolis for its vibrant arts scene, sports events like the Indy 500, and diverse dining options in neighborhoods like Mass Ave and Broad Ripple. Outdoor activities, including parks and trails, are easily accessible, and the city's public transportation makes exploring affordable and convenient. Weekends often involve campus events, concerts, or trips to local museums and festivals.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($77,235):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
Butler's campus is considered safe with 24/7 security and a proactive campus safety team. The surrounding Indianapolis area has typical urban considerations, but the university provides resources like shuttle services and safety apps to help students navigate confidently.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ High graduation and retention rates indicate strong student support and satisfaction
- ✓ Prime urban location in Indianapolis offers extensive internship and job opportunities
- ✓ Strong programs in business, communications, and health professions with practical focus
- ✓ Personalized learning environment with small class sizes and accessible faculty
Cons
- ✗ Tuition is relatively high for a private university, with net price still significant after aid
- ✗ Pell Grant rate is low at 13.8%, suggesting limited socioeconomic diversity
- ✗ Urban setting may not appeal to students seeking a traditional college town experience
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Butler University is renowned for its strong academic programs in business, communications, and health professions, as well as its commitment to experiential learning and community engagement. The university fosters a close-knit environment with a focus on undergraduate research and professional development. It's also recognized for its beautiful campus and location in Indianapolis, which provides ample opportunities for internships and cultural experiences.
Butler has an acceptance rate of 85.87%, making it moderately selective and accessible for many applicants. The average SAT score is 1282, and a strong GPA (typically above 3.5) can improve your chances. While not highly competitive, applicants should highlight extracurriculars and personal essays to stand out, especially for popular majors like business or health professions.
Campus life at Butler is vibrant and community-oriented, with a retention rate of 88.1% reflecting student satisfaction. Students engage in over 150 student organizations, NCAA Division I athletics, and events like the iconic Butler Bash. The urban setting allows for easy access to Indianapolis nightlife, sports, and cultural activities, while the residential campus fosters a tight-knit social scene.
With an average net price of $38,472 and 10-year median earnings of $77,235, Butler offers a reasonable return on investment for graduates in high-demand fields like business and health. The high graduation rate (80.5%) and strong career outcomes support its value, but it may not be ideal for those with significant financial constraints. Comparing aid packages and considering long-term earning potential is key to determining affordability.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1855
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 4,576
- In-State Tuition $45,980
- Zip Code 46208
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $38,472 after aid, Butler's degree offers solid value, especially considering the 10-year median earnings of $77,235 for graduates. While the sticker price is high, the strong graduation rate and career outcomes in fields like business and health can justify the investment for many students. Financial aid is available, but families should plan for costs beyond tuition, such as housing and fees.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.