Lehigh / How to get in
How to Get Into Lehigh
About 26% overall, with Early Decision running closer to 45%. Lehigh fills a large share of its class through binding ED, so applying early is the single biggest lever most candidates have. Here is the academic profile that keeps you in the running, what Lehigh weighs most, and where to put your energy.
- 1380-1490
- SAT (middle 50%)
Every college publishes how heavily it weighs each part of your application in its Common Data Set. Here is how Lehigh reads applicants, most important first.
- Course rigor
- Grades (GPA)
- Class rank
- Test scores
- The application essay
- Recommendation letters
- Extracurricular activities
- Character and personal qualities
- Demonstrated interest
- Talent or ability
- First-generation status
- Legacy relation
- Geographic origin
Lehigh is test-optional, so you can apply without SAT or ACT scores, though a strong score can still help.
Early Decision I November 1 · Early Decision II January 1 · Regular Decision January 1 · CSS Profile + FAFSA (ED I) November 15 · CSS Profile + FAFSA (ED II / RD) February 1. Applying early (Early Action or Early Decision, where offered) can modestly improve your odds and signals commitment.
Your grades and course rigor are mostly set by now. The highest-leverage things left are your essays and how you frame your activities. Lehigh reads holistically, so a specific, well-told essay is where you separate yourself from other qualified applicants.
How to get into Lehigh: FAQ
Is Lehigh hard to get into?
About 26% overall, with Early Decision running closer to 45%. Lehigh fills a large share of its class through binding ED, so applying early is the single biggest lever most candidates have. At Lehigh, applicants clear a high academic bar first, then stand out through essays, activities, and character.
What SAT score do you need for Lehigh?
The middle 50 percent of admitted students at Lehigh score about 1380-1490 on the SAT. Scores in or above that range keep you competitive.
What does Lehigh look for in applicants?
Lehigh weighs course rigor and grades (gpa) most heavily, alongside a strong academic record. The parts you most control late in the process are your essays and how you present your activities.
See your real chances at Lehigh and every school.
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