
Upland, INprivate nonprofittaylor.edu
Taylor University is a small, evangelical Christian liberal arts college in rural Indiana that punches above its weight academically, with a 99% graduate success rate and a curriculum blending rigorous academics with faith integration. Known for its tight-knit community (97% of students live on campus) and strong outcomes in fields like engineering and theology, Taylor attracts students who want a purposeful education steeped in Christian values—without the cutthroat selectivity of elite liberal arts colleges.
Taylor University is moderately selective, with a 73.5% acceptance rate (1,783 admits from 2,425 applications in 2024). The middle 50% of admitted students have SAT scores between 1080–1320 (with averages of 589 Math, 609 Evidence-Based Reading/Writing) or ACT composites averaging 27. Nearly 40% of freshmen ranked in the top 10% of their high school class, and the average GPA is a 3.79. Admissions heavily weigh academic rigor (high school GPA, class rank, and standardized test scores) but also consider extracurriculars, character, and religious commitment—reflecting its evangelical identity.
Taylor offers 100+ undergraduate and graduate programs, with standout departments in engineering (ranked #117 nationally for non-doctorate programs), psychology (7% of majors), and theology (4%). The curriculum emphasizes faith integration across disciplines, requiring a minimum 2.30 GPA in majors (30+ credit hours). Small classes and a #1-ranked undergraduate teaching program in the Midwest foster close faculty mentorship. Flexible degree plans allow for interdisciplinary combinations, like pairing environmental science with biblical studies.
Life revolves around campus (97% live on-site), where traditions like sunsets over the rural Indiana fields and multicultural events (students hail from 40 countries) create a close-knit, globally aware community. The evangelical identity shapes social norms—no Greek life, with dorm Bible studies and service trips filling the gap. Students praise the ‘beautiful, welcoming’ campus, though some note the limited off-campus options in tiny Upland (population 3,800). Athletics (NAIA Division) and music ensembles are big draws.
Taylor delivers remarkable ROI: 99% of 2023 graduates achieved ‘success’ (employed, in grad school, or volunteering), with 92% in full-time roles. The 77% graduation rate (top 15% nationally) climbs to 98% employment post-degree. Early-career salaries start modestly ($31,300 at 6 years post-grad) but rise steadily ($40,400 by year 9), outperforming many regional peers. Strong alumni networks in ministry, education, and engineering help graduates land jobs.
The sticker price is steep ($55,922/year), but 99% of students receive aid, bringing the average Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. down significantly. Taylor offers generous merit scholarships (based on GPA/test scores) and need-based grants, with tools like the Net Price Calculator to estimate individualized costs. For context: The median student loan debt is $27,000, below the national average for private colleges.
Taylor is unapologetically evangelical yet academically serious—a rare combo that draws students seeking rigorous scholarship fused with Christian mission. Its #1 Midwest teaching ranking reflects faculty dedication, while the 99% outcomes rate proves grads thrive. The rural campus fosters intensity (think: late-night theology debates, not frat parties), making it ideal for students who want a full-immersion faith community without sacrificing academic chops.