Bucknell University vs Lehigh University

Bucknell University is the more selective of the two at 32%, versus 32% at Lehigh University. 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
Lehigh University
Selective
32%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1430
Private · Pennsylvania

Bucknell University vs Lehigh University: the differences that matter

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

Bucknell University and Lehigh University 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, while Lehigh University puts more weight on extracurricular activities, talent / ability, character / personal qualities. 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 Lehigh University's is around 1430. Admitted students at Lehigh 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 UniversityLehigh University
Rigor of secondary school recordvery importantvery important
Academic GPAvery importantvery important
Class rankimportantconsidered
Standardized test scoresimportantimportant
Application essayimportantimportant
Recommendationsimportantimportant
Extracurricular activitiesconsideredimportant
Talent / abilityconsideredimportant
Calculate your chances at both →

Frequently asked questions

Is Bucknell University or Lehigh University harder to get into?

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

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

Bucknell University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1410, and Lehigh University's is around 1430.

What are my chances at Bucknell University and Lehigh University?

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