
Fort Wayne, INprivate nonprofitsf.edu
The University of Saint Francis-Fort Wayne is a small, career-focused Catholic university where nearly everyone gets in (96% acceptance rate) but graduates leave with strong job prospects (98% career outcomes rate). With over 60 programs—especially in nursing, biology, and the arts—it combines Franciscan values with practical training, all in a tight-knit Indiana campus where classes average just 11 students.
Getting into Saint Francis is about as close to a sure thing as higher education offers: the school admitted 96% of applicants in 2024 (1,927 out of 2,008 applications). While some sources report slightly lower rates (65% per US News, 76.25% via College Board), the most recent data from Data USA and the National Center for Education Statistics confirms the 96% figure. Test scores are considered but not required—enrolled students typically have SATs between 880-1070 or ACTs of 17-24. Notably, the university charges no application fee and accepts the Common App.
Saint Francis offers 60+ career-focused programs across seven academic pathways, with nursing, biology, and animation among the most popular. The 2026 curriculum overhaul organized offerings into interdisciplinary clusters like Allied Health and Creative Arts & Digital Media. Small classes (an 11:1 student-faculty ratio) emphasize hands-on learning—many programs include clinical rotations, studio work, or internships. The university leans heavily into healthcare education (biomedical science, radiography) but also has strengths in business and liberal arts, all framed by Franciscan values of service.
This is a commuter-heavy campus where 80% of students live off-campus, but the university promotes community through service projects, faith-based activities, and DIII athletics (Go Cougars!). Instagram tours show a compact, leafy campus with modern labs and a performing arts center. The vibe is unpretentious and supportive—marketing materials emphasize 'belonging' and feature students describing it as 'a place where you can be you.' While not a party school, there are 30+ clubs, including esports and ministry groups.
Saint Francis punches above its weight in graduate success: 98% of 2024 graduates landed jobs, continued education, or military service within six months. The six-year graduation rate is 61% (above average for regional privates), and alumni median earnings hit $48K at six years post-graduation, rising to $55K by year ten. Nursing and healthcare grads dominate employment reports, with many staying in northeast Indiana. About half of students graduate with debt (median $26K), below the national average.
Tuition before aid is $18,391 annually, but 100% of full-time undergrads receive grants or scholarships, 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 to $20,897 (per College Board) or $26,547 (per US News). The university offers merit-based Saint Francis Scholarships alongside Need-based aidFinancial aid awarded based on your family's ability to pay, as measured by forms like the FAFSA, rather than on achievements.. While not the cheapest option in Indiana, its career outcomes justify the cost for many—especially given that healthcare graduates often secure jobs quickly in Fort Wayne’s robust medical sector.
Saint Francis is the anti-prestige university—a place where B students can thrive in small classes, graduate with manageable debt, and land steady jobs. Its superpower is aligning programs (nursing, animation, ministry) with regional employer needs while wrapping technical training in Franciscan service values. The 96% Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. might suggest low standards, but the 98% career outcomes prove it’s doing something right. Ideal for: healthcare-bound Hoosiers, First-generation (first-gen)A student who would be the first in their immediate family to earn a four-year college degree. Many colleges consider this in context. students, and anyone who wants professors who know their name.