
400 Saint Bernardine Street, Reading, PA 19607-1799, USA


Alvernia University holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, a recognized regional accrediting agency. This accreditation affirms that the university meets established standards of quality and effectiveness in higher education. Additionally, specific programs within the university may have specialized accreditation, ensuring that professional and academic standards are maintained in disciplines where such credentials are essential. For prospective students, the institution's accreditation signals that credits earned are widely accepted and that the education provided fulfills rigorous criteria for academic and institutional quality.
Admission to Alvernia University requires applicants to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) credential or an equivalent high school completion. A secondary school record along with the applicant's GPA must be provided, as both are necessary components in the evaluation process. While specific admission test scores are not mandatory, some testing is recommended to strengthen the application. The university does not operate under an open admission policy, and dual credit options for high school students are not available.
Applicants may receive credit for prior college coursework as well as Advanced Placement (AP) credits, supporting a smoother transition for transfer or advanced placement students. Although recommendations and specific competencies are not strictly required, they are suggested to enhance an application's competitiveness.
Regarding standardized testing, only about 8% of enrolled students submitted SAT scores, indicating that the university places limited emphasis on these for admission decisions. Data about ACT scores for enrolled students is not available. The acceptance rate stands at approximately 62%, reflecting a moderate level of selectivity.
Alvernia University requires prospective students to pay an application fee as part of their admission process. This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with evaluating candidates. However, the university offers fee waivers for certain applicants to reduce financial barriers. These waivers may be granted based on specific criteria such as demonstrated financial need, participation in designated programs, or other qualifying factors determined by the admissions office.
Alvernia University does not host its own ROTC branch units on campus. Instead, students interested in participating in ROTC programs must enroll through cooperating host institutions that offer these military training opportunities. This arrangement allows prospective students at Alvernia University to access ROTC programs in partnership with nearby colleges or universities that maintain active ROTC units.
Alvernia University welcomes transfer students during the fall, spring, and summer terms, providing multiple opportunities throughout the academic year to begin studies. The admissions process is considered moderately difficult, implying that applicants should prepare carefully to meet the university's standards. Transfer credit acceptance is a significant feature, as the university accepts credits through various examination programs, including CLEP general and subject exams as well as DANTES, which can help expedite degree completion for some students.
Recommendations are also taken into account during the transfer application process, allowing applicants to strengthen their submissions with supporting endorsements. The institution demonstrates flexibility by accepting transfer credits, enabling students to bring prior academic work into their studies. These policies collectively support a smooth transition for transfer students seeking to continue their education at Alvernia University.
Alvernia University offers a range of study abroad opportunities designed to enrich students' academic and cultural experiences. These programs typically include short-term faculty-led trips, semester-long exchanges, and summer study options, allowing students flexibility depending on their academic schedule and personal interests. Participants can engage in immersive learning environments where they attend courses aligned with their major or explore interdisciplinary subjects.
The university emphasizes programs that foster global awareness and cross-cultural competency, targeting destinations known for their historical, economic, or social significance. These experiences are crafted to complement the university's curriculum, offering practical applications and real-world perspectives. Students often have the chance to participate in internships, volunteer projects, or research activities as part of the abroad experience, enhancing both their resumes and personal growth.
Percent of students submitting SAT scores
8%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
Data not availableOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer