
One University Avenue, Bourbonnais, IL 60914, USA


Olivet Nazarene University holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accrediting body recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This accreditation confirms that the university meets established standards of quality in its educational offerings and institutional operations.
Olivet Nazarene University requires applicants to have completed a high school education or possess a General Educational Development (GED) credential. Submission of secondary school records and a minimum high school GPA is mandatory, while a class rank is recommended but not essential. Although standardized admissions test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, are not explicitly required, the university suggests submitting them as part of the application to strengthen the candidacy. International applicants must submit TOEFL scores to demonstrate English proficiency.
The university does not operate an open admission policy and does not offer dual credit options. However, it accepts college credits and Advanced Placement (AP) credits for transfer or advanced standing. While certain competencies and other tests are recommended, these are not strictly required for admission.
Olivet Nazarene University's acceptance rate stands at approximately 67%, reflecting a moderately selective admission process. The average SAT score of admitted students is around 1085, with Math scores slightly below average at 535 and Writing scores near the average at 550. The average ACT composite score for enrolled students is 23. These scores place admitted students generally in the bottom 35-40 percentile nationally, indicating a student body with a range of academic profiles.
The application fee for prospective students applying to Olivet Nazarene University is set at $30. This fee must be submitted alongside the application to be processed. However, the university offers fee waivers for eligible applicants to reduce financial barriers when applying.
Fee waivers are available primarily for students who qualify based on economic need or other specific criteria. To obtain a waiver, applicants typically need to provide documentation or meet certain conditions as outlined by the admissions office. This policy aims to ensure broader accessibility to the application process without undue financial burden.
Olivet Nazarene University does not have its own ROTC branch unit on campus. However, students interested in participating in ROTC programs have the option to enroll through a cooperating host institution that offers such military training units. This arrangement allows students to pursue ROTC activities and training without the need for a dedicated unit directly at Olivet Nazarene University.
Olivet Nazarene University welcomes transfer applicants for several terms, including fall, spring, and summer semesters. Prospective transfer students are able to submit credit from prior institutions as the university accepts transfer credits. Additionally, the university considers credits obtained through CLEP exams, both subject-specific and general, as well as those earned via DANTES assessments.
Transfer candidates may also submit letters of recommendation to support their applications, as Olivet Nazarene University accepts such materials during the admission process.
Olivet Nazarene University offers a range of study abroad options designed to enrich students' academic and cultural experiences. These programs allow students to engage directly with different cultures while earning credit toward their degrees. Participants can choose from short-term faculty-led trips, semester-long exchanges, and summer study abroad opportunities, all structured to complement their course of study.
Faculty-led programs typically involve travel during academic breaks and focus on themes related to specific disciplines, providing immersive learning in international contexts. Semester-long and summer programs are often hosted at partner institutions worldwide, enabling students to live and study abroad more independently while still benefiting from Olivet Nazarene University's academic guidance and support.
In addition to language immersion and cultural studies, the university's study abroad offerings may include internships, service learning, and research projects, which enhance practical skills and global awareness. These diverse opportunities aim to foster personal growth and professional development, preparing students for an interconnected world.
Median composite SAT score
1085Median composite ACT score
23Percent of students submitting ACT scores
16%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
29%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary 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
RequiredOther 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, Spring, Summer