U of Tulsa Acceptance Rate: Stats and Tips (2026)
Data Notice: Figures, rates, and statistics cited in this article are based on the most recent available data at time of writing and may reflect projections or prior-year figures. Always verify current numbers with official sources before making financial, medical, or educational decisions.
U of Tulsa Acceptance Rate: Stats and Tips (2026)
The University of Tulsa is a small private research university in Tulsa, Oklahoma, with nationally recognized programs in petroleum engineering, cyber security, and law. With an acceptance rate of approximately ~65%, TU is accessible to well-prepared students while maintaining academic standards that place it among the top private universities in the central United States. The university enrolls roughly 3,300 students, creating a student-to-faculty ratio of ~11:1 that enables close mentorship and undergraduate research opportunities typically found only at elite institutions.
TU’s petroleum engineering program consistently ranks among the top five nationally, fueled by Tulsa’s historic role as the “Oil Capital of the World” and the university’s partnerships with energy companies headquartered in the region. The Tandy School of Computer Science has built a parallel reputation in cyber security, operating one of the first NSA-designated Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense and producing graduates recruited by the Department of Defense, the NSA, and major tech firms.
Admissions Statistics at a Glance
| Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
| Overall Acceptance Rate | ~65% |
| Total Applicants (recent cycle) | ~6,000 |
| Enrolled Freshman Class | ~650 |
| Average GPA (enrolled) | ~3.7 |
| Middle 50% SAT (enrolled) | ~1180–1380 |
| Middle 50% ACT (enrolled) | ~25–32 |
| Test-Optional | Yes |
| Application Deadlines | EA: Nov 1, RD: Rolling (priority Jan 15) |
What the University of Tulsa Looks For
TU uses a holistic admissions process that starts with academic credentials. The admissions committee looks for strong performance in a challenging curriculum—AP, IB, honors, and dual enrollment courses all demonstrate the kind of preparation TU expects. A GPA above 3.5 in rigorous coursework positions applicants well for admission and merit scholarship consideration.
For students applying to engineering programs, math and science preparation carries extra weight. Completion of calculus by senior year is strongly recommended for petroleum, mechanical, and electrical engineering applicants. Computer science applicants benefit from demonstrating programming experience, whether through coursework, competitions, or personal projects.
TU values intellectual curiosity and engagement beyond the classroom. The admissions committee looks for evidence of sustained commitment to activities that reflect genuine interest—whether that is research, entrepreneurship, performing arts, or community service. Depth matters more than breadth.
The personal essay should reveal how the applicant thinks and what motivates them. TU’s small size means every student is known by name, and the admissions team seeks individuals who will contribute actively to the academic and social community.
Recommendation letters from teachers in core subjects who can speak to the applicant’s analytical ability and classroom engagement are valued. A counselor letter providing school context rounds out the application.
Acceptance Rate by Application Type
| Application Type | Estimated Acceptance Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Early Action | ~75% | Non-binding, priority for top scholarships |
| Regular Decision (Rolling) | ~60% | Space fills as the cycle progresses |
| Transfer | ~65% | Strong pathway, case-by-case review |
TU does not offer binding Early Decision. Early Action is the recommended application path because it provides priority consideration for the university’s most competitive merit scholarships, including the Presidential Scholarship (full tuition) and the University Scholarship (significant partial tuition). These awards are GPA- and test-score-driven, and the largest awards are typically allocated in the EA round.
Rolling admissions after the EA round means that applying earlier improves chances. Students who submit applications after March may find limited scholarship funding remaining, even if they are academically competitive.
Financial Aid and Cost
| Cost Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | ~$46,000 |
| Room and Board | ~$14,000 |
| Total Cost of Attendance | ~$60,000 |
| Average Need-Based Aid Package | ~$25,000 |
| Students Receiving Need-Based Aid | ~80% |
| Average Merit Scholarship | ~$22,000 |
| Median Graduating Debt | ~$26,000 |
TU is aggressive with merit aid. The university offers scholarships ranging from $10,000 annually to full tuition based on academic profile. For high-achieving students—those with GPAs above 3.8 and strong test scores—the net cost of attending TU can approach or even fall below the cost of attending Oklahoma’s public universities.
The university also offers program-specific scholarships in engineering, nursing, and cyber security, which can stack with general merit awards. Students participating in TU’s undergraduate research programs may access additional stipends.
Tulsa’s cost of living is significantly lower than coastal college towns, which keeps room, board, and personal expenses manageable. A student receiving a $25,000 merit scholarship at TU may have a net cost of attendance comparable to a mid-tier state school—while accessing a 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio and research-intensive programs.
Students should file the FAFSA by TU’s priority deadline to be considered for all available institutional aid.
Key Takeaways
- The University of Tulsa’s ~65% acceptance rate provides accessible admission to a small research university with nationally ranked programs in petroleum engineering and cyber security.
- Early Action is essential for maximizing merit scholarship opportunities, with awards up to full tuition available.
- The 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio enables undergraduate research and mentorship opportunities typically associated with much more selective institutions.
- Tulsa’s low cost of living and TU’s generous merit aid often bring the net price below comparable public university costs.
- Petroleum engineering, cyber security, and computer science graduates benefit from strong industry pipelines and high starting salaries.
Next Steps
- Prepare a competitive application with our college essay writing guide.
- Understand the financial aid landscape with our financial aid guide.
- Compare testing options with our SAT vs. ACT guide.
Verify all admissions data with the institution directly. Acceptance rates and requirements change annually.