
5151 Park Avenue https://www.sacredheart.edu/, Fairfield, CT 06825, USA


Sacred Heart University holds regional accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), ensuring that its academic programs meet rigorous standards of quality and integrity. This accreditation validates the university's commitment to maintaining effective educational practices and continuous improvement across all levels of study.
Additionally, several specific programs at Sacred Heart University have obtained specialized accreditation from relevant professional bodies. These accreditations signify that the university's offerings in fields such as business, education, and health sciences adhere to the discipline-specific standards required for professional preparation and licensure.
Prospective students can be assured that Sacred Heart University's regional and programmatic accreditations support transferability of credits and eligibility for federal financial aid, which are important considerations when selecting an institution for higher education.
Sacred Heart University requires applicants to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) or hold a high school diploma. Submission of high school transcripts is mandatory, and a minimum secondary school GPA is required for admission consideration. Letters of recommendation must be provided as part of the application.
The university mandates a TOEFL score from international applicants to demonstrate English proficiency. While submission of standardized test scores like the SAT and ACT is recommended, they are not strictly required for admission. Additionally, other test scores may be submitted but are not compulsory.
Prospective students must have access to a computer, as it is required for the application process and academic activities, though the university does not offer computer leasing options. Sacred Heart University does not operate on an open admission policy, and dual credit opportunities are not available. However, it does offer the possibility to earn college credit through Advanced Placement (AP) exams and other recognized credits.
The acceptance rate at Sacred Heart University stands at approximately 68%, reflecting a moderately selective admission process. The application pool consists of about 14,284 applicants, with a higher percentage of women applicants compared to men. Enrollment figures indicate a similar trend, with more women admitted and enrolled than men, demonstrating a tendency toward greater female representation within the student body.
Sacred Heart University requires prospective undergraduate applicants to pay a nonrefundable application fee of $55. This fee must be submitted alongside the application form for it to be processed. The university offers fee waivers for certain students who demonstrate financial need or meet specific eligibility criteria, such as participation in designated programs or attendance at partnered high schools.
Applicants seeking an application fee waiver should provide appropriate documentation or letters of recommendation that substantiate their eligibility. Additionally, fee waivers may be granted to military personnel, veterans, and their families. Students are encouraged to contact the admissions office directly to inquire about the process and qualifications for obtaining a waiver.
Sacred Heart University does not have its own ROTC branch unit on campus. Instead, students interested in participating in ROTC programs would need to enroll through a cooperating host institution that offers the relevant military training. Details about specific branches or affiliated colleges for this purpose are not provided.
Sacred Heart University offers transfer admission opportunities for students applying in the fall and spring terms. The institution maintains a moderately difficult admissions process for transfer applicants, requiring careful preparation.
The university accepts transfer credits, including those earned through College-Level Examination Program (CLEP) tests, both general and subject-specific, as well as Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) exams. Additionally, Sacred Heart University considers recommendation letters as part of the transfer application.
Sacred Heart University offers a 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 study options that allow students to immerse themselves in different environments while earning academic credit. The university's partnerships with institutions across Europe, Asia, and other regions provide diverse destinations catering to a variety of academic interests.
The study abroad offerings emphasize experiential learning, often integrating site visits, cultural activities, and internships alongside traditional coursework. Many programs focus on global business, international relations, and language studies, reflecting the university's commitment to preparing students for a globalized workforce. Additionally, specialized trips are organized to support disciplines such as art, history, and health sciences, enabling students to gain practical insights pertinent to their fields.
Students interested in these programs can typically choose between credit-bearing options aligned with their degree requirements and non-credit experiences aimed at personal growth and cultural enrichment. Support services, including pre-departure orientations and advising, are provided to help students prepare adequately for their time abroad.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
2.4%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
14.1%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
YesComputer 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.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
Data not availableROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Air Force
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