Research.com
The University of the South logo

The University of the South

735 University Avenue, Sewanee, TN 37383-1000, USA

The University of the South award
The University of the South award
US ranking
position: 714
Tuition & fees per year: $58,226
Acceptance rate: 51.00%
Median alumni salary: $34,203
Avg. SAT and ACT: 1295 SAT, 29 ACT
Entrance difficulty: Hard

What is the accreditation of The University of the South?

The University of the South is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. This regional accreditation is a key indicator of the institution's adherence to quality standards in higher education. Prospective students can be assured that the university meets rigorous criteria for curriculum, faculty qualifications, and institutional effectiveness.

In addition to its regional accreditation, specific programs at The University of the South may hold specialized accreditations or memberships with professional organizations, ensuring that particular fields of study maintain industry standards and recognition. These endorsements contribute to the academic reputation and credibility of degrees earned at the university.

What are the admission requirements at The University of the South?

Prospective students seeking admission to The University of the South must have completed high school and possess a high school diploma; a GED is not accepted. Submission of secondary school records and a satisfactory secondary school grade point average are mandatory components of the application process. Additionally, applicants are required to present recommendations, and completion of a college preparatory program is necessary to be considered.

The university mandates applicants to submit TOEFL scores, reflecting its expectation for English language proficiency among international candidates. While submission of other standardized test scores is recommended, it is not compulsory. An open admission policy is not in place, indicating selective admissions criteria.

Advanced Placement (AP) credits are accepted, offering potential advanced standing for qualifying students, but options such as dual credit or credit for college coursework completed prior to enrollment are not offered. The university does not require applicants to provide information on computer ownership or leasing as part of the admissions process.

Academic test score data reveal a highly competitive applicant pool. The mean SAT score stands at 1295, placing admitted students in approximately the top 20 percent nationally, with particularly strong performance in both the Math and Writing sections. The mean ACT score is 29, ranking in the top 15 percent nationally. Despite these strong scores, the acceptance rate hovers at 51 percent, positioning the university among institutions with relatively selective admissions.

What are the application fees and waivers at The University of the South?

The University of the South requires prospective students to submit an application fee as part of their admission process. This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with reviewing applications. However, the university recognizes that these costs can be a burden for some applicants and offers fee waivers to eligible students.

Applicants who demonstrate financial need or meet certain criteria may qualify for a waiver, allowing them to apply without paying the fee. Common avenues to obtain a fee waiver include participation in programs such as the College Board's SAT fee waiver or being recommended by a high school counselor based on economic hardship. These measures aim to ensure that the application process remains accessible to all qualified candidates, regardless of their financial circumstances.

Students interested in requesting a fee waiver should provide the appropriate documentation or certification with their application. This process helps the university maintain fairness in admissions while supporting applicants from diverse backgrounds.

What types of ROTC programs are available at The University of the South?

The University of the South offers an ROTC branch unit on campus, providing students with the opportunity to participate in military training while pursuing their academic studies. This presence allows prospective students interested in military service to consider a pathway that combines both education and leadership development at the university.

What are the requirements for transfer students at The University of the South?

The University of the South accepts transfer students for the fall and spring semesters, providing opportunities for those looking to continue their education without interruption during these periods. Prospective transfer students should be aware that the institution does accept previous college credits, which may facilitate a smoother transition for those who have completed coursework elsewhere.

What types of study abroad programs are available at The University of the South?

The University of the South offers a variety of study abroad programs designed to enhance the educational experience by providing opportunities for cultural immersion and academic growth in international settings. Students can participate in semester-long exchanges, short-term faculty-led trips, and summer programs that span multiple countries and continents. These programs often emphasize interdisciplinary learning, allowing participants to integrate their major fields of study with global perspectives.

Many of the study abroad options are developed in partnership with foreign universities and organizations, ensuring that course credits earned abroad are transferable and align with the university's academic standards. The programs also focus on offering tailored experiences that fit different academic schedules and personal interests, ranging from research projects to language immersion.

Additionally, The University of the South provides support services that assist students in the application process, securing housing, and navigating cultural adjustments during their time abroad. Financial aid resources are sometimes available specifically for students pursuing international study, helping to reduce costs and broaden accessibility.

The University of the South Admissions Factors

Avg. SAT score 1295
SAT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students
Avg. ACT score 29
ACT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students.
Acceptance rate 51%

ACT scores of enrolled students

ACT in range 12-17
ACT in range 18-23
ACT in range 24-29
ACT in range 30-36

The University of the South Admissions

Applicants Total: 5,018
Admission Total: 2,554
Enrolled Total: 449
Women
Men

The University of the South Admission Requirements

Median composite SAT score

1295

Median composite ACT score

29

Percent of students submitting ACT scores

43%

Percent of students submitting SAT scores

20%

High school completions

High school diploma required and GED is not accepted

Computer required

No

Computer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution

No

Secondary school GPA

Required

Secondary school rank

Data not available

Secondary school record

Required

Completion of college-preparatory program

Required

Recommendations

Required

Formal demonstration of competencies

Data not available

Admission test scores

Data not available

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language

Required

Other Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)

Recommended

Open admission policy

No

Dual credit

No

Credit for life experiences

No

Advanced placement (AP) credits

Yes

Special learning opportunities

Orientation program

Yes

Disabilities services

Yes

Off-campus study

Yes

ROTC-Army

ROTC branch unit on campus

ROTC-Navy

ROTC branch unit on campus

ROTC-Air Force

ROTC branch unit on campus

Study abroad

Yes

Weekend/evening college

Data not available

Student can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization

No

Preparation at another institution required

No

Approved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher

No

The University of the South Transfer Acceptance Rate

Entrance difficulty for transfer students

Data not available

Generally accepts credits

Data not available

Accept ACE recommendation for credit

Yes

Possible transfer

Fall, Spring

Recently Published Articles