
132 Franciscan Way P.O. Box 600, Loretto, PA 15940, USA


Saint Francis University holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, a regional accrediting body recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This accreditation signifies that the university meets established standards of quality and effectiveness in its educational offerings and institutional operations.
The university also maintains specialized accreditations for several individual programs, which assure prospective students that those fields of study adhere to professional standards set by relevant organizations. These accreditations validate the rigor and relevance of specific academic disciplines and can be important for students planning to enter regulated professions.
Saint Francis University requires prospective students to have completed a secondary school record with a specified minimum GPA. While high school rank is recommended, it is not mandatory. Applicants must possess a General Educational Development (GED) credential if a traditional high school diploma is not available. The university mandates submission of TOEFL scores for non-native English speakers, and although other standardized tests are recommended, they are not compulsory.
Applicants should have reliable access to a computer, as computer use is required and leasing options are available. Advanced Placement (AP) credits are accepted, but neither dual credit nor college credit prior to enrollment is granted. The institution does not operate under an open admission policy.
The acceptance rate at Saint Francis University is approximately 77%, indicating a moderately selective admission process. About 40% of enrolled students submitted ACT scores, and an equivalent proportion submitted SAT scores. The distribution of SAT results among enrolled students shows that most scores fall between 1000 and 1400. ACT score distribution suggests that nearly half of enrolled students scored below 23, with a smaller percentage scoring above 29.
Saint Francis University charges a standard application fee for prospective undergraduate students. However, the university provides several options for fee waivers to support applicants who demonstrate financial need. Eligible students may have their application fee waived through specific programs or by submitting qualifying documentation during the application process. These waivers are designed to reduce barriers for applicants from diverse economic backgrounds and facilitate easier access to the admission process. It is recommended that candidates review the university's official admissions guidelines or contact the admissions office directly to determine their eligibility and the appropriate steps to request a fee waiver.
Saint Francis University does not host its own ROTC program on campus. Instead, it offers opportunities for students to participate in ROTC through a cooperative arrangement with a nearby host institution. This setup allows students enrolled at the university to engage in ROTC training and education by affiliating with another college or university that operates the ROTC unit.
Saint Francis University welcomes transfer students for the fall and spring terms, providing opportunities for those seeking to continue their education there. Prospective transfer students should note that the university accepts credits from other institutions, including those earned through CLEP general and subject examinations, which can facilitate a smoother transition. Additionally, the university considers recommendations as part of its admission process.
The level of difficulty to gain entrance as a transfer student is classified as moderately difficult, indicating a selective but attainable admission process for qualified applicants.
Saint Francis University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' academic experiences through international exposure. These programs include faculty-led short-term trips, semester-long exchanges, and internships abroad, allowing students to engage with different cultures while earning academic credit. The university partners with institutions across multiple continents, providing diverse destinations that cater to various academic interests and majors.
Students can participate in programs that focus on topics such as global business, sustainability, language immersion, and health sciences, among others. Short-term trips often occur during summer or winter breaks, making them accessible for students who prefer not to interrupt their regular semester schedules. Semester exchanges enable deeper cultural immersion and academic engagement, often facilitated through reciprocal agreements with partner universities.
In addition to traditional study abroad options, Saint Francis University supports service-learning projects and research opportunities overseas, offering experiential learning that combines community involvement with academic objectives. The programs aim to foster global awareness, adaptability, and professional skills valuable in an increasingly interconnected world.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
40%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
40%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
YesComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RecommendedRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
Data not availableAdmission 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
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
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