
3900 Bethel Drive, Saint Paul, MN 55112, USA


Bethel University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accrediting body recognized for evaluating academic quality and institutional effectiveness. This accreditation confirms that the university meets standards that ensure a credible and comprehensive educational experience.
In addition to its regional accreditation, Bethel University maintains program-specific accreditations for certain professional schools. These specialized accreditations cover fields such as education, business, and health sciences, reflecting national standards applicable to those disciplines. This layered accreditation approach provides prospective students with assurance regarding the quality and recognition of their chosen programs.
Bethel University requires applicants to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) certificate or an equivalent high school diploma. Prospective students must submit their secondary school records and maintain a required grade point average, although specific GPA thresholds are not detailed. While the university does not have an open admission policy, it recommends college-level competencies and certain standardized tests, excluding mandatory admissions exams. Advanced Placement (AP) credits and other college credit types are accepted to some extent, supporting students' prior academic achievements. Dual credit opportunities are not available.
Bethel University requires prospective undergraduate applicants to pay a nonrefundable application fee as part of the admissions process. This fee helps cover administrative costs associated with reviewing and processing applications. The exact amount of the application fee is stated clearly by the university and must be submitted along with the completed application form to ensure proper consideration.
Applicants facing financial hardship may be eligible to request a fee waiver. The university provides this option to reduce barriers for students who might otherwise struggle to afford the application expenses. Fee waivers are granted based on specific criteria, often including financial need or participation in certain programs. Prospective students are encouraged to inquire early about the possibility of obtaining a waiver to facilitate a smooth application experience.
Bethel University offers access to ROTC programs through a branch unit on campus as well as options at a cooperating host institution. Prospective students interested in military training and leadership development can participate directly at Bethel University or through an affiliated nearby institution that hosts additional ROTC programs, providing flexibility for various service commitments and academic schedules.
Bethel University accommodates transfer students across all academic terms, including fall, winter, spring, and summer. The institution accepts transfer credits, facilitating a smoother transition for students coming from other colleges or universities. Additionally, Bethel University recognizes credits earned through specific standardized examinations, notably accepting College Level Examination Program (CLEP) subject tests and the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) exams. These options provide potential transfer students with opportunities to earn credit for prior learning achievements. Prospective students should note that some credit acceptance policies remain unspecified, but the university's overall approach supports transfer credit integration to advance academic progression.
Bethel University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' global perspectives and academic experiences. These programs include semester-long, short-term, and faculty-led trips, allowing students from multiple disciplines to engage with different cultures while earning academic credit. The university supports participation through partnerships with institutions worldwide, enabling students to study in diverse countries across continents.
Students can choose from traditional semester or year-long exchanges, which involve enrolling at a foreign university and fully immersing themselves in the host country's academic and social environment. Alternatively, short-term programs typically range from a few weeks to a month and often focus on specific themes or subjects, combining classroom learning with cultural excursions and service opportunities.
Faculty-led programs, which are organized and accompanied by Bethel University professors, offer courses abroad that align with students' majors or minors. These trips provide direct guidance and structured curricula, facilitating deeper academic engagement alongside cultural exploration.
Throughout these programs, students gain credits that apply toward their degrees, ensuring that study abroad complements their overall academic progress. Bethel University emphasizes support services including pre-departure advising and post-return integration, helping participants navigate the logistical and cultural challenges of international study.
Median composite SAT score
1234Median composite ACT score
24Percent of students submitting ACT scores
29%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
2%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
Data not availableComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
Data not availableSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RecommendedRecommendations
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
Data not availableDisabilities services
Data not availableOff-campus study
Data not availableROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent 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
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer