Expanding Our Community
Bucknell exceeds enrollment goals for two years running.
Led by Kevin Mathes ’07, assistant vice president and dean of admissions, Bucknell’s Admissions team recruited more high-caliber applicants than ever before, resulting in a record-breaking class for the second year running. Mathes’ philosophy of making the enrollment process personal to each student is rooted in his own Bucknell experience. “Every student deserves to be celebrated — for their accomplishments, individuality and their potential,” he says. “Each will contribute as much as they will learn.”
Class of 2026 Snapshot
11,708
Applicants
the largest application pool in the University’s history — an increase of more than 400 over 2021’s record of 11,263
3,812
Admitted
(32.6% admit rate)
1,047
Enrolled
(27.5% yield)
Bucknell’s biggest class in history
Bucknell’s biggest class in history
37
States represented
(plus D.C.)
(plus D.C.)
24
Countries represented
13.5%
of the Class of 2026 is first-generatioN
3.75
Average GPA
(4.0 scale)
(4.0 scale)
29–33
Middle 50% ACT composite*
650–730
Middle 50% SAT R Evidence-based Reading & Writing*
660–770
660–770: Middle 50% SAT R Math*
15% more
international students
7.5% more
students of
color
color
18.5% more
first-generation
studentS
studentS
20% more
Pell-eligible
students
students
*Bucknell is test-optional, meaning applicants can decide whether to include SAT or ACT scores when applying.
Beyond Brilliant The Class of 2026 brings unique experiences to Bucknell.
founded a nonprofit that has donated 825,000 books • climbed Machu Picchu • awarded for birdwatching • competed internationally in synchronized figure skating • studied degenerative brain conditions • designed Braille signs for a rail trail • competes in professional kart racing
Read more about the record-breaking class at bucknell.edu/Classof2026