
4301 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209-6397, USA


University of the Incarnate Word holds regional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), which authorizes it to award associate, baccalaureate, master's, and doctoral degrees. This accreditation is significant as it ensures the institution meets rigorous standards in areas such as academic quality, faculty qualifications, and institutional effectiveness.
In addition to its regional accreditation, the university has obtained program-specific accreditations for several of its professional and academic offerings. These specialized accreditations reflect a commitment to maintaining high standards in disciplines such as nursing, business, education, and health professions. Prospective students may take this as an assurance that programs adhere to the requirements and expectations set by corresponding professional bodies.
Maintaining accreditation requires periodic review and compliance with evolving educational criteria, which the University of the Incarnate Word actively pursues. This ongoing process improves transparency and accountability, factors that are important when assessing the quality and recognition of a college or university education.
University of the Incarnate Word requires applicants to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) or an equivalent high school credential. Prospective students must submit secondary school records and maintain a minimum GPA, as academic performance is an essential part of the evaluation process. Although the university does not adopt an open admission policy, secondary school rank and demonstrated competencies are recommended criteria to strengthen an application.
In addition, a computer is required for coursework, with options available for computer leasing. The university also recommends prior college coursework and additional testing beyond the required examinations.
For English language proficiency, submission of TOEFL scores is mandatory for international applicants. Other standardized tests may be recommended but are not obligatory.
University of the Incarnate Word accepts both dual credit and Advanced Placement (AP) credits, allowing applicants to potentially earn college credit through prior academic achievements.
Regarding standardized test scores, the university's admissions reflect a student body with average SAT scores around 1040 and an average ACT score near 20, both situated in the lower percentiles nationally. The acceptance rate is notably high at 93%, indicating a relatively accessible admissions landscape compared to many other institutions.
The University of the Incarnate Word requires prospective students to submit an application fee as part of the admission process. This fee helps cover the administrative costs associated with reviewing applications. However, the university offers fee waivers to applicants who demonstrate financial need or meet certain eligibility criteria, which can significantly reduce the financial burden for some students.
Eligible students may obtain fee waivers through standardized application platforms or by requesting them directly from the admissions office. These waivers are designed to encourage a broader range of applicants to consider the university without the obstacle of upfront costs tied to the application.
It is important for prospective students to consult the university's official admissions resources or contact admissions counselors to understand the specific requirements for qualifying for a fee waiver and the process to apply for one. Taking advantage of fee waivers can be a valuable step in the application process, especially for those concerned about affordability.
University of the Incarnate Word offers access to Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs through cooperation with host institutions. Prospective students can participate in ROTC activities by affiliating with an ROTC branch unit located on a partnering campus or at a cooperating host institution. This arrangement allows students at the university to pursue military training and leadership development even if the university itself does not house an on-site ROTC unit directly.
The University of the Incarnate Word allows transfer students to enroll in several academic terms, including fall, spring, and summer. Prospective transfer students can submit credits earned through recognized examination programs such as the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) subject tests and the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) exams, which the university accepts as part of their transfer credit policy. The admissions process is considered minimally difficult, reflecting moderate selectivity in evaluating transfer applicants.
Recommendations from prior instructors or institutions are accepted during the admissions review, which may support the application. The university does accept transfer credits in general, providing flexibility for those seeking to continue their education. This transfer policy is designed to facilitate a smoother transition for students moving from other institutions.
University of the Incarnate Word offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance academic and cultural experiences for its students. Prospective participants can choose from short-term faculty-led programs, which typically span a few weeks and focus on specific fields of study, to semester-long or year-long exchanges that allow deeper immersion in a foreign academic environment. These options provide flexibility in duration and academic focus, accommodating diverse interests and schedules.
The university supports study abroad experiences in multiple countries, fostering global awareness and cross-cultural competencies. Students often engage in coursework relevant to their major while benefiting from exposure to different educational systems and cultural contexts. Additionally, service-learning and internship components may be included to further enrich practical skills alongside academic pursuits.
Through these programs, University of the Incarnate Word aims to prepare students for global citizenship and broaden their perspectives, encouraging personal growth as well as academic development.
Median composite SAT score
1040Median composite ACT score
20Percent of students submitting ACT scores
6%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
26%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
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
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-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
EasyGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer