Bucknell University vs Hillsdale College

Bucknell University is the more selective of the two at 32%, versus 32% at Hillsdale College. Here is how they compare on selectivity, test scores, and what they weigh, plus a free way to estimate your odds at each.

Bucknell University
Selective
32%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1410
Private · Pennsylvania
Hillsdale College
Selective
32%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1400
Private · Michigan

Bucknell University vs Hillsdale College: the differences that matter

How Bucknell University and Hillsdale College stack up on selectivity, scores, and what they value.

Bucknell University and Hillsdale College are almost equally selective (32% vs 32%), so neither is a clear safety relative to the other. Your odds at each come down to fit, not headline difficulty.

The two also read applications a little differently. Bucknell University leans more on class rank, standardized test scores, while Hillsdale College puts more weight on application essay, recommendations, extracurricular activities. The same profile can land differently at each, which is why a per-school estimate matters more than a single GPA.

On test scores, Bucknell University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1410 and Hillsdale College's is around 1400. Admitted students at Bucknell University post somewhat higher scores. Run your own numbers below to see where you stand at each.

What each school weighs

Factors either school weighs heavily, side by side.

FactorBucknell UniversityHillsdale College
Rigor of secondary school recordvery importantvery important
Academic GPAvery importantvery important
Class rankimportantconsidered
Standardized test scoresimportantconsidered
Application essayimportantvery important
Recommendationsimportantvery important
Extracurricular activitiesconsideredimportant
Talent / abilityconsideredimportant
Calculate your chances at both →

Frequently asked questions

Is Bucknell University or Hillsdale College harder to get into?

Bucknell University is harder to get into, with a 32% acceptance rate versus 32% at Hillsdale College.

What's the difference in SAT scores between Bucknell University and Hillsdale College?

Bucknell University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1410, and Hillsdale College's is around 1400.

What are my chances at Bucknell University and Hillsdale College?

That depends on your full profile. CollegeCalcAI gives a free, personalized estimate for each school in a few minutes.