
Siloam Springs, ARprivate nonprofitjbu.edu
John Brown University (JBU) is a private Christian university in Siloam Springs, Arkansas, known for blending rigorous academics with a tight-knit, faith-centered community. With a 76% acceptance rate and strong programs in business, nursing, and engineering, JBU offers a practical, hands-on education grounded in Christian values. Its 68% graduation rate and emphasis on student outcomes make it a standout in Arkansas.
John Brown University is moderately selective, with an Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. of 76.1% (1,254 admitted out of 1,647 applicants). Admitted students typically have an ACT score between 21–30 or an SAT score of 1020–1390. The university offers assured admission to students with a high school GPA of 2.5–2.99 paired with a 20 ACT, 1020 SAT, or 63 CLT score. While test scores are considered, JBU emphasizes Holistic admissionsA review that weighs the whole applicant — grades, essays, activities, and context — rather than relying on test scores and GPA alone., including academic preparation and personal fit with its Christian mission.
JBU offers over 50 undergraduate majors, with standout programs in business, nursing, visual arts, engineering, teacher education, psychology, and computer science. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and integrates Christian faith into its curriculum. The student-faculty ratio is 16:1, fostering close mentorship. Popular majors include Business Administration, Psychology, and Visual & Performing Arts, reflecting JBU’s blend of practical career preparation and liberal arts foundations.
Life at JBU revolves around a close-knit, faith-driven community, with 69% of students living on campus. The Student Events and Activities (SEA) board organizes events to foster camaraderie, from concerts to service projects. Athletics and outdoor recreation are popular, thanks to Arkansas’s scenic surroundings. The university’s YouTube tours showcase a vibrant campus with modern facilities, chapel services, and a strong emphasis on mentorship and spiritual growth.
JBU boasts a 68% graduation rate—above the national average for 4-year colleges—with 98% of graduates employed, in grad school, or serving in the military/volunteering within six months. Early-career alumni earn $41,767–$45,000 on average. The Wall Street Journal ranked JBU #1 in Arkansas for outcomes, weighing factors like graduation rates and post-grad salaries. Notably, 73% of graduates earn more than a high school diploma holder.
JBU’s average net price after aid is $21,464, with 99% of students receiving financial aid (average package: $23,173). Aid includes institutional grants ($20,000+ on average), federal/state grants, and scholarships. The university’s Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. Calculator helps families estimate costs, and tuition increases have historically been modest. For context, the midpoint annual cost for 4-year colleges nationally is $20,077, making JBU competitively priced for a private institution.
JBU distinguishes itself through its uncommon balance of career-focused academics and deep Christian integration. Unlike many faith-based schools, it pairs strong STEM programs (engineering, nursing) with arts and humanities, all while maintaining a 68% graduation rate that outperforms peers. The Wall Street Journal’s #1-in-Arkansas ranking underscores its ROI, and the tight-knit campus culture—where 7 in 10 students live on campus—creates a uniquely supportive environment. For students seeking a practical, values-driven education without sacrificing rigor, JBU delivers.