About

About Grand Canyon University

christian universityhealth sciences focuslarge online programsdoctoral level institutionphoenix arizona campus

Grand Canyon University is a private university in Phoenix, AZ, known for its christian university, health sciences focus, and large online programs. With an acceptance rate of 78%, GCU is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 8,438 students each year. GCU is test optional; submitting a strong score can strengthen an application, though it is not required for consideration. GCU offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $9,642 per year; the sticker price of $31,489 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Grand Canyon University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

78%
Overall Accept Rate

Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Grand Canyon University

The first 2 tips apply to all applicants. Your personalized strategy requires your profile — build your free list to unlock it.

Essay Strategy
GCU is a Christian university and weaves its faith-based mission into campus life, so if faith or service is part of your story, let that come through naturally in your application materials. Admissions readers are looking for students who will genuinely engage with that community, not just tolerate it.
Application Strategy
GCU has strong programs in nursing, education, and business, so name the specific college or program you are applying to (such as the College of Nursing or Colangelo College of Business) in your personal statement and explain why that particular program fits your goals. Generic statements about wanting to attend GCU without mentioning your program will feel thin to readers.

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Financial Aid & Cost

What Grand Canyon University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceEst. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$31k/yr$18.6k
30k-48k~$31k/yr$18.8k
48k-75k~$31k/yr$21.7k
75k-110k~$31k/yr$24.5k
110k+~$31k/yr$25.7k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

43%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$47k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
21:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
60,170
Undergrad Enrollment
Grand Canyon University Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch