Acceptance Rate
66%
Avg. SAT
1270
75th percentile
“A faith-driven community in the heart of Texas blending tight-knit support with a push for personal growth.”
Abilene, TX
Location
Midsize City
Campus Setting
Nestled in Abilene, Texas, Abilene Christian University (ACU) was founded in 1906 by members of the Churches of Christ, carrying a legacy of integrating faith into every aspect of learning and life. This private university, with just over 3,000 undergraduates, feels like a close family where spiritual growth walks hand in hand with academic ambition. You’ll find a campus that prioritizes Christian values—daily chapel attendance is encouraged, and biblical studies are woven into the curriculum—making it a haven for students seeking a purpose-driven education.
The surrounding city of Abilene, with a population of about 125,000, offers a slower pace compared to Texas giants like Dallas or Austin, just a few hours away. It’s a place where you can focus without the distractions of a bustling urban center, though some might find the small-town vibe a bit isolating if they crave big-city energy. ACU attracts students who value community, faith, and a supportive environment over flashy amenities or sprawling campuses, but those who prefer a secular or highly diverse setting may feel out of place.
The university’s personality shines through its commitment to service—students often engage in mission trips and local outreach, reflecting a deep-rooted ethos of giving back. If you’re someone who thrives on meaningful connections and a clear moral compass, ACU could be your kind of place. Just know that the emphasis on religious life might feel restrictive if you’re looking for a more open-ended college experience.
Photo Gallery
+13
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Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Available Online
Degree Levels Offered
At Abilene Christian University, academics are grounded in a liberal arts foundation with a strong emphasis on integrating faith into scholarship, particularly through required Bible courses for all students. You’ll encounter notable programs in business, education, and nursing, where hands-on learning and ethical training prepare graduates for service-oriented careers. The university also prides itself on its School of Nursing, which has built a reputation for producing compassionate, skilled professionals through clinical partnerships across Texas.
Classroom experiences often feel personal, with professors who prioritize mentorship and are known to pray with students or discuss faith alongside coursework. Research opportunities exist, especially in fields like psychology and ministry, though they’re not as extensive as at larger research-heavy institutions. Be prepared for a structured academic path—some students find the required religious studies a meaningful addition, while others might wish for more flexibility in their course load.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
3,263 undergrad • 1,956 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
55%
Black / African American
13%
Hispanic / Latino
18%
Asian
2%
Other / Multi-racial
12%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Abilene, TX
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
Campus life at ACU pulses with a warm, community-focused rhythm, where faith shapes much of the social scene through chapel gatherings, Bible study groups, and service projects. You can expect a typical week to include attending daily chapel (highly encouraged, though not strictly mandatory), cheering at Wildcat football games, and joining in traditions like the annual Candlelight Devo, a candlelit worship event that unites the campus. The social atmosphere leans wholesome—there’s no heavy party culture here, and alcohol is prohibited on campus, which suits students seeking a quieter, values-driven environment but might disappoint those looking for a more lively nightlife.
Living on campus is a big part of the experience, with most students staying in residence halls that foster tight bonds through shared activities and spiritual events. The West Texas weather can be a challenge—summers are scorching, and winters bring occasional chilly winds across the flat plains. While Abilene offers affordable living compared to urban Texas hubs, off-campus entertainment options are limited, pushing students to create their own fun through campus clubs and church-related activities.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
Western Athletic Conference
ROTC & Veteran Support
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
Net Annual Cost by Household Income
Household Income
Avg. Net Cost
$0 – $30K
$29,181
$30K – $48K
$26,212
$48K – $75K
$26,415
$75K – $110K
$28,762
$110K+
$32,263
Apply for Financial Aid
Complete the FAFSA to unlock grants, scholarships, and federal loans.
Costs shown are before financial aid. Most students receive some form of aid. Complete the FAFSA to see what you qualify for.
Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
81%
4 Years Graduation Rate
53%
6 Years Graduation Rate
65%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$55,736
81% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at Abilene Christian University and return in the fall. 53% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 65% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
53%
4-5 years
12%
6-8 years
1%
Non-grad
34%
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Key Statistics
Type
Private
Tuition
$40,300
Acceptance
66%
Undergrads
3,263
4-Year Grad Rate
53%
Endowment
$463M
Abilene, TX 79699
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