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Xavier University

Accept Rate
87.73%
Grad Rate
72%
Enrollment
4,723
Avg SAT
1224
Tuition
$48,125
Median Salary
$64,873
Overall Grade
C
B
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
C
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Xavier University offers a tight-knit, Jesuit-inspired community feel where students are known by name, not just by number. The campus buzzes with a spirit of 'Cura Personalis' (care for the whole person), blending rigorous academics with a strong focus on service and leadership. You'll feel supported and challenged in equal measure, walking brick pathways under the watchful eye of the iconic clock tower.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

87.73%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 122475th Pctl
10601298
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2575th Pctl
2229
1122436

Admissions Tips

Highlight your commitment to service and community involvement in your essays and activities list, as this aligns with Xavier's Jesuit mission. While test scores are optional, a strong GPA in rigorous courses is crucial; aim for a 3.5 or higher to be competitive. If you have a specific major interest like Nursing or Engineering, mention it, as some programs are more selective than the overall 87% acceptance rate might suggest.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1224
40080012001600
School range: 1060โ€“1298

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

Academics are anchored in a strong liberal arts core with standout programs in Health Professions, Business, and Biology. The Jesuit tradition emphasizes critical thinking and ethical reasoning, leading to small, discussion-based classes where faculty mentorship is the norm. Research opportunities are accessible even to underclassmen, particularly in fields like neuroscience and engineering through partnerships with nearby medical centers.

Popular Majors

Health Professions
30.4%
Business & Marketing
20.3%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
5.9%
Biology & Biomedical
4.5%
Social Sciences
4.5%
Psychology
4.2%
Multidisciplinary Studies
4.1%
Communications
3.8%
Education
3.1%
Visual & Performing Arts
2.8%
Criminal Justice
2%
Computer Science
1.8%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

72%
Graduation Rate
82.8%
Retention Rate
4,723
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$48,125
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$32,342
After financial aid
Total Cost
$62,293
Cost of attendance/year
14.5%
Receive Pell Grants
49.3%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Cincinnati

Cincinnati offers a vibrant mix of professional sports, a thriving arts scene, and a renowned food culture, from Skyline Chili to upscale dining in Over-the-Rhine. Students explore the city's numerous parks, attend concerts at venues like The Andrew J Brady Music Center, and intern at major corporations headquartered downtown. The city's distinct neighborhoods provide endless options for weekend adventures, just a short bus or car ride from campus.

Local Rent Check

$919 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Cincinnati
Explore Cincinnati

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$192,500
$0Est. 4 Years: $192,500

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($64,873):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

Xavier's campus is considered very safe, with its own police department and well-lit, walkable pathways. While the surrounding neighborhood has seen some urban challenges, the university is located in a stable residential area and provides robust safety resources like a 24/7 escort service.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Strong alumni network and career support, especially in the Midwest
  • โœ“ Personalized attention in small class sizes with accessible professors
  • โœ“ Prime location in Cincinnati offering excellent internship and co-op opportunities
  • โœ“ Beautiful, safe, and cohesive campus community with a distinct identity

Cons

  • โœ— Tuition is high for a private university, requiring careful financial planning
  • โœ— Campus can feel somewhat quiet on weekends compared to larger state schools
  • โœ— Social life can be heavily tied to Greek life and athletics for some students

Notable Alumni

Bobby Crim
Former CEO of the Crim Fitness Foundation and prominent community leader in Flint, Michigan.
Jim Bunning
Hall of Fame MLB pitcher who later served as a U.S. Senator for Kentucky.
Kevin Youkilis
Former MLB All-Star and World Series champion with the Boston Red Sox.

Frequently Asked Questions

Xavier is known for its Jesuit Catholic identity, emphasizing academic excellence, ethical leadership, and service to others. It is particularly recognized for its strong programs in Health Professions (especially Nursing), Business, and its unique School of Education. The university fosters a close-knit community where students receive personalized attention and mentorship.

With an acceptance rate of 87.73%, Xavier is considered moderately selective, making it accessible to a broad range of students. While it's not among the most selective universities, a strong academic record is still important; the middle 50% of admitted students typically have an SAT score between 1120 and 1300 and a GPA of 3.5 or higher. A demonstrated interest in the university's mission can strengthen an application.

Campus life at Xavier is defined by a strong sense of community and school spirit, centered around its NCAA Division I athletics, particularly basketball. The 116-acre campus is walkable and beautiful, with a mix of historic and modern buildings. Students are active in over 150 student organizations, Greek life, and service activities, creating a vibrant but manageable social environment.

For many students, Xavier provides a strong return on investment, especially given its 10-year median earnings of $64,873. The value is maximized for those who leverage the strong alumni network and internship opportunities in Cincinnati. However, the high sticker price means it's most financially advantageous for students who receive substantial merit or need-based aid.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center Procter & Gamble Kroger Cincinnati Financial Corporation Fifth Third Bank
Smart Start Score
70

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 5,292
  • In-State Tuition $48,125
  • Zip Code 45207

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 44.1% โ™€ 55.9%

The Money Talk

With an average net price of $32,342 after aid, Xavier is a significant investment, but the 10-year median earnings of $64,873 suggest a solid return for many graduates. The value is particularly strong in high-demand fields like health professions and business, where placement rates are high. However, families should carefully compare the sticker price and financial aid packages to ensure it aligns with their budget.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $48,125
Housing (12 mo) $11,028
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $66,353
With avg financial aid:
$32,342/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.