
501 East 38th St., Erie, PA 16546, USA


Mercyhurst University holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, ensuring that the institution meets rigorous standards of quality in its academic programs and institutional operations. This regional accreditation is significant for prospective students as it validates the university's commitment to maintaining educational excellence and continuous improvement.
The university also attains program-specific accreditations for certain departments and professional programs, which are recognized by relevant accrediting bodies in fields such as business, education, and health sciences. These specialized accreditations can be crucial for students intending to pursue careers requiring professional licensure or certification, as they often reflect adherence to industry standards and best practices.
Understanding the accreditation status of Mercyhurst University is essential for students concerned about the transferability of credits, eligibility for federal financial aid, and the overall recognition of their degree by employers and graduate schools. The combination of regional and programmatic accreditation underscores the university's dedication to providing recognized and reputable educational opportunities.
Mercyhurst University requires prospective students to have completed a high school education or hold a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Applicants must submit a secondary school record and demonstrate a required secondary school GPA as part of their application. While recommendations are mandatory, presenting standardized test scores such as the SAT or ACT is recommended but not strictly required.
The university does not operate an open admission policy and does not offer dual credit options. However, students can earn college credit and may receive credit for Advanced Placement (AP) courses. English proficiency is assessed through a required TOEFL test for applicable students.
Regarding admissions statistics, the acceptance rate stands at approximately 83%, placing it within the top 35% for selectivity. About 28% of enrolled students submitted SAT scores, and 12% submitted ACT scores. The distribution of ACT scores among enrolled students shows that 1% scored below 17, 29% scored below 23, 44% scored below 29, and 26% scored below 36. Overall, the university's admissions, application submissions, and enrollments fall within an average range but lean toward the more accessible side when compared nationally.
The application fee at Mercyhurst University is set at a specific amount that prospective students must pay when submitting their admissions application. This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with processing applications. However, students who may find the fee burdensome can explore available fee waiver options.
Mercyhurst University provides application fee waivers to eligible applicants, which can reduce or eliminate the application cost. These waivers are typically offered to students experiencing financial hardship or those meeting certain criteria established by the university. To obtain a fee waiver, applicants are usually required to submit appropriate documentation or meet outlined qualifications.
Mercyhurst University does not host its own ROTC branch on campus. However, prospective students interested in pursuing ROTC programs have the option to participate through a cooperating host institution that provides these military training programs. This arrangement allows students to engage in ROTC coursework and training while enrolled at Mercyhurst University, facilitating access to military education without requiring Mercyhurst to maintain the ROTC unit directly on its campus.
Mercyhurst University allows transfer students to enroll in both the fall and spring semesters, providing flexible entry points throughout the academic year. The institution accepts transfer credits, facilitating the continuation of prior academic work for incoming students. Additionally, the university recognizes credits earned through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), including both subject-specific and general exams. This recognition can be beneficial for students seeking to accelerate their degree progress by applying previously earned credits.
Mercyhurst University offers a diverse range of study abroad opportunities designed to enrich students' academic and cultural experiences. These programs include semester-long exchanges, short-term faculty-led trips, and summer sessions, allowing students to tailor their international education to their personal and academic goals.
The university maintains partnerships with institutions across various continents, providing options in Europe, Asia, Australia, and South America. Students can immerse themselves in different languages, histories, and global perspectives depending on the location they choose. In addition to traditional classroom settings, some programs incorporate internships and service-learning projects, enhancing practical skills alongside academic study.
Mercyhurst also supports individualized study abroad experiences through its approval process, enabling students to pursue independent programs or research opportunities abroad that align closely with their major or interests. The university's faculty and study abroad office offer advising and resources to help students plan these personalized international experiences effectively.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
12%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
28%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
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
Data not availableAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
Data not availableOpen 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, Spring