Brigham Young University (BYU) is a private research university located in Provo, Utah. Affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, BYU provides an education grounded in religious traditions for over 30,000 students. BYU is the largest religious university and the third-largest private university in the United States.
Introduction to Brigham Young University
Founded in 1875, BYU is sponsored by the LDS Church but welcomes students of all faiths. It is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. The 560-acre campus at the base of the Wasatch Mountains features historic and modern architecture.
BYU offers over 200 academic programs through the following colleges:
- Agriculture and Life Sciences
- Business
- Education
- Engineering
- Family, Home, and Social Sciences
- Fine Arts and Communications
- Humanities
- Life Sciences
- Nursing
- Physical and Mathematical Sciences
The student-faculty ratio is 18:1 with most classes having fewer than 50 students. Over 98% of students are members of the LDS Church.
Brigham Young University Tuition Costs
As a private university, BYU offers relatively affordable tuition for LDS members:
- LDS undergraduate: $6,240 per year
- Non-LDS undergraduate: $12,480 per year
- Graduate tuition: $8,100 per year
Housing costs around $2,000 for a shared dorm room. Books, fees, and supplies are estimated at $3,000 annually. Over 70% of students receive some financial aid.
Academic Experience
BYU grants undergraduate and graduate degrees encompassing a broad range of majors:
Bachelor’s Degrees
BYU offers 186 undergraduate majors. Popular majors include business, STEM fields, education, performing arts, and nursing.
Students complete general education in religion, writing, math, sciences, and humanities.
Master’s and Doctoral Degrees
BYU has 64 master’s programs and 26 doctoral programs. Some of the graduate degree options include Master of Accountancy, Masters of Social Work, MBA, and doctorate degrees in fields ranging from law to education.
BYU also offers unique academic opportunities such as the mentored research program, the study abroad program, and the honors program.
Campus Life
As an LDS-affiliated school, BYU provides a close-knit campus community guided by honor codes and principles. Student life includes:
- Over 250 student clubs and organizations
- 30 intramural sports programs
- Performing arts groups and events
- Faith-based activities and support
- Student government and leadership opportunities
- On-campus housing options
- Dining halls, cafes, and eateries
BYU also offers cultural and recreational activities such as the Museum of Art, the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum, the BYU Philharmonic Orchestra, the BYU Ballroom Dance Company, and the BYU Cougars athletic teams.
Admissions Information
BYU has a holistic admissions process that considers not only academic achievements, but also personal qualities, extracurricular involvement, leadership potential, and commitment to the LDS Church. The admissions requirements are:
- Application and $35 fee
- 3.9+ unweighted high school GPA
- ACT 29+ or SAT 1310+
- Ecclesiastical endorsement for all applicants
- Essays, recommendations, and interviews
The average acceptance rate for BYU is around 65%. Graduate admissions vary by program.
How to Apply To Brigham Young University
Key steps to applying to BYU include:
1. Complete the online application and pay fee
2. Submit transcripts, test scores, and any essays
3. Obtain an ecclesiastical endorsement from your church leader
4. Interview with admissions office (recommended)
5. Apply for FAFSA aid and BYU scholarships
6. Accept offer and enroll in classes
The application deadlines for BYU are:
- November 1 for early action
- December 15 for regular decision
- February 1 for international students
With its prestigious reputation, high-quality academics, values-based education, and vibrant student community, BYU is an excellent choice for prospective students.
