Brigham Young University – Apply Now

Overview of Brigham Young University

Brigham Young University (BYU), located in Provo, Utah, is a private research university owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Founded in 1875 by Brigham Young, the university has grown to become one of the largest private universities in the United States, known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education, commitment to the integration of spiritual and secular learning, and the promotion of ethical leadership and character development.

Academic Programs

BYU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. The university is organized into the following colleges and schools:

1. College of Fine Arts and Communications
   • Departments: Art, Communications, Dance, Design, Music, Theatre and Media Arts
2. College of Humanities
   • Departments: English, Linguistics, Philosophy, Comparative Arts and Letters, Humanities, Classics and Comparative Literature, and Languages
3. College of Life Sciences
   • Departments: Biology, Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Nutrition, Dietetics, and Food Science, Physiology and Developmental Biology, Plant and Wildlife Sciences
4. Marriott School of Business
   • Departments: Accountancy, Finance, Management, Marketing and Global Supply Chain, Information Systems
5. College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences
   • Departments: Chemistry and Biochemistry, Computer Science, Geological Sciences, Mathematics, Physics and Astronomy, Statistics
6. College of Family, Home, and Social Sciences
   • Departments: Anthropology, Economics, Geography, History, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, Social Work
7. David O. McKay School of Education
   • Departments: Counseling Psychology and Special Education, Educational Leadership and Foundations, Instructional Psychology and Technology, Teacher Education
8. Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering
   • Departments: Chemical Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
9. J. Reuben Clark Law School
10. College of Nursing
11. Graduate Studies

• Offers various master’s and doctoral programs across disciplines

Admission Requirements

BYU’s admissions process is holistic, considering academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, personal character, and alignment with the university’s mission and values. Below are the general requirements for undergraduate and graduate admissions.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements:

1. Application Form: Complete the online application form available on the BYU admissions website.
2. Application Fee: Pay the non-refundable application fee.
3. High School Transcripts: Submit official high school transcripts.
4. Standardized Test Scores: Submit ACT or SAT scores (Note: As of recent years, BYU has adopted a test-optional policy, so check the current requirements).
5. Personal Essays: Write and submit personal essays as part of the application.
6. Ecclesiastical Endorsement: Obtain an ecclesiastical endorsement from a leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or another faith.
7. Recommendation Letters: Submit letters of recommendation (typically one from a teacher and one from a church leader).
8. Extracurricular Activities: Provide information about extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and service experiences.

Graduate Admission Requirements:

1. Application Form: Complete the graduate application form available on the BYU Graduate Studies website.
2. Application Fee: Pay the non-refundable application fee.
3. Bachelor’s Degree: Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
4. Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
5. Standardized Test Scores: Submit GRE or other standardized test scores as required by specific programs.
6. Letters of Recommendation: Submit letters of recommendation (usually three) from academic or professional references.
7. Statement of Purpose: Write a statement of purpose outlining academic and career goals.
8. Ecclesiastical Endorsement: Obtain an ecclesiastical endorsement.
9. Resume/CV: Provide a resume or curriculum vitae detailing academic and professional experience.
10. Additional Requirements: Some programs may have additional requirements such as portfolios, writing samples, or interviews.

Campus Life

BYU offers a vibrant campus life with numerous opportunities for students to engage in academic, social, spiritual, and recreational activities.

1. Student Organizations: BYU has over 100 student organizations and clubs covering a wide range of interests, including academic, cultural, recreational, and service-oriented groups.
2. Campus Housing: BYU provides on-campus housing options for single and married students, with various residence halls and apartment complexes.
3. Athletics: BYU’s athletic teams, known as the Cougars, compete in NCAA Division I sports. The university has a strong tradition in athletics, particularly in football, basketball, and volleyball.
4. Performing Arts: The College of Fine Arts and Communications offers numerous performances throughout the year, including music concerts, theater productions, and dance performances.
5. Religious Life: BYU emphasizes spiritual development and provides opportunities for worship, religious education, and service. Students can attend weekly devotionals, participate in church activities, and engage in service projects.

Tuition and Financial Aid

BYU strives to provide an affordable education, with tuition rates significantly lower than many other private universities.

Tuition Rates (2023-2024):

• Undergraduate (LDS): $3,120 per semester
• Undergraduate (Non-LDS): $6,240 per semester
• Graduate (LDS): $3,825 per semester
• Graduate (Non-LDS): $7,650 per semester

Financial Aid: BYU offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.

1. Scholarships: Merit-based and need-based scholarships are available for undergraduate and graduate students.
2. Grants: Federal and state grants, such as the Pell Grant, are available for eligible students.
3. Loans: Federal student loans, including Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, and Parent PLUS Loans.
4. Work-Study: Federal and institutional work-study programs provide part-time employment opportunities for students with financial need.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the acceptance rate at BYU?

• The acceptance rate at BYU varies by year, but it typically ranges from 50% to 70%.

2. Does BYU accept transfer students?

• Yes, BYU accepts transfer students. Transfer applicants must meet specific credit and GPA requirements and complete the transfer application process.

3. What are the housing options at BYU?

• BYU offers various on-campus housing options for single and married students, including residence halls and apartment complexes. Off-campus housing is also available and must be BYU-approved.

4. What is the student-to-faculty ratio at BYU?

• The student-to-faculty ratio at BYU is approximately 20:1, providing students with opportunities for personalized attention and mentorship.

5. Does BYU offer online courses or degrees?

• Yes, BYU offers a range of online courses and degree programs through BYU-Pathway Worldwide and BYU Online.

6. Are non-LDS students allowed to attend BYU?

• Yes, non-LDS students are welcome to attend BYU. All students must abide by the university’s Honor Code and obtain an ecclesiastical endorsement.

7. What is the Honor Code at BYU?

• The BYU Honor Code outlines standards for academic integrity, dress and grooming, residential living, and adherence to the principles of the LDS Church. All students are required to adhere to the Honor Code.

8. Can international students apply to BYU?

• Yes, international students are welcome to apply to BYU. They must meet the same admission requirements as domestic students and provide proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS scores).

9. What types of extracurricular activities are available at BYU?

• BYU offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including student clubs, athletic teams, performing arts groups, service organizations, and more.

10. How can I apply for financial aid at BYU?

• Students can apply for financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the BYU Scholarship Application. Additional information and forms are available on the BYU Financial Aid website.

11. What is the average class size at BYU?

• The average class size at BYU is approximately 30 students, though this can vary by course and program.

12. Are there opportunities for research at BYU?

• Yes, BYU encourages undergraduate and graduate research across various disciplines. Students can work with faculty on research projects, participate in research conferences, and apply for research grants.

13. Does BYU have study abroad programs?

• Yes, BYU offers numerous study abroad programs in various countries, allowing students to gain international experience and cultural understanding.

14. What support services are available for students at BYU?

• BYU provides a range of support services, including academic advising, career services, counseling and psychological services, tutoring, and disability services.

15. What are the major annual events at BYU?

• Major annual events at BYU include Homecoming Week, Education Week, the Winterfest, and various cultural, academic, and religious events throughout the year.