
1330 Elmhurst Dr. NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402, USA


Mount Mercy University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, which is a regional accreditation agency recognized for ensuring academic quality and institutional integrity. This accreditation confirms that the university meets rigorous standards for higher education institutions. Additionally, specific programs within Mount Mercy University may have specialized accreditation to validate their curriculum and professional preparation, enhancing the value of the degrees earned by students.
Prospective students seeking admission to Mount Mercy University must have completed a high school education or possess a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. The university requires applicants to submit their secondary school transcripts, which should include the applicant's grade point average, as this is a mandatory part of the evaluation process. Although Mount Mercy University recommends demonstrating certain competencies, specific admission test scores or entrance exams are not required beyond the TOEFL for international students.
Applicants do not need to provide evidence of computer access or leases as part of the admission process. There is no open admission policy in place, indicating that the university exercises selectivity in its admissions. Dual credit is not available; however, the institution does accept college credit as well as Advanced Placement (AP) credits.
The acceptance rate stands at approximately 79%, reflecting a moderately selective admission environment. The distribution of enrolled students by ACT scores shows that the majority fall below the 23-point mark, with approximately half scoring between 17 and 23, and a smaller proportion achieving scores above 29. This data suggests that while standardized test scores are considered, they play a limited role in the admissions decision. The average number of applicants is around 1,436 annually, with about 1,131 admitted and 208 enrolling, highlighting a competitive but accessible admission process.
The application fee for prospective students at Mount Mercy University is set at $25. This fee is required to process an undergraduate admission application. However, the university provides opportunities for fee waivers under certain conditions.
Applicants who meet specific eligibility criteria, such as financial need or participation in designated programs, may request a waiver to avoid paying the application fee. To apply for a waiver, students typically need to submit relevant documentation or work with a counselor to verify their eligibility. This provision helps reduce barriers for students who might otherwise be deterred by the application cost.
Additionally, Mount Mercy University occasionally offers fee waiver opportunities during special admission events or outreach initiatives aimed at promoting access to higher education.
Mount Mercy University does not offer ROTC programs directly on its campus. Prospective students interested in participating in ROTC typically need to enroll in such programs at nearby institutions that have established military training units. This arrangement allows students to take part in ROTC coursework and training while completing their academic degrees at Mount Mercy University.
Mount Mercy University welcomes transfer students during all academic terms, including fall, winter, spring, and summer sessions. The institution has a moderately difficult admissions process for transfer applicants, reflecting a balanced approach to enrollment standards. Prospective students are able to transfer credits, as the university accepts prior coursework.
The university recognizes several credit-by-examination programs, facilitating credit transfers through CLEP General and CLEP Subject exams, as well as the DANTES program. Additionally, transfer applicants may submit recommendations as part of their application, which the university accepts for consideration.
Mount Mercy University offers a range of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance academic and cultural experiences for its students. These programs include short-term faculty-led trips, semester-long exchanges, and global internships, allowing students to immerse themselves in different environments while earning academic credit. The university collaborates with partner institutions internationally to provide options in diverse locations, ensuring that students can find a program that complements their field of study and personal interests.
Additionally, Mount Mercy University encourages participation in service-learning abroad initiatives, which combine community engagement with educational objectives. These experiences often focus on social issues and global citizenship, broadening students' perspectives beyond the classroom. The university also facilitates application support and pre-departure orientations to prepare students thoroughly for their time overseas, emphasizing safety and cultural sensitivity.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
3%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
1%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
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
Data not availableOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesStudy 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, Winter, Spring, Summer