bucknell essay requirements

How to Write the Bucknell University Supplemental Essay: Examples + Guide 2023/2024

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Prompt #1: “Why major” + “Why us” essay

If you’re looking for a university that truly believes in education for all, Bucknell’s your school. University officials are rightfully proud of their long history of pushing the boundaries of education—opening the Female Institute in 1852, graduating Bucknell’s first international student in 1864, and celebrating its first African American student's graduation in 1875—while using their liberal arts offerings to shape the world far beyond Lewisburg, Penn.

On campus, Bucknell focuses on developing critical thinkers—students who aren’t reluctant to challenge the status quo, commit to intellectual exploration, and use their education to serve the common good while working toward justice and equality.

Want an even better sense of what Bucknell is looking for and how it’s shaping tomorrow’s leaders? You’ll find an extensive, by-the-numbers look at Bucknell’s offerings, from enrollment, testing, and tuition statistics to student life and financial -aid information, on its Common Data Set . To learn how the university plans to thrive in the coming decade, distinguish itself from its peers, and conquer today’s (and tomorrow’s) challenges in higher education, read its most recent strategic plan, “The Plan for Bucknell 2025.”

What is the Bucknell University supplemental essay prompt?

Please explain your interest in your first-choice major/undecided status and your second-choice major (should you opt to list one) and why you would choose Bucknell University to pursue your interest(s). (250 words)

How to Write the Supplemental Essay Prompt for Bucknell University

How to write bucknell supplemental essay prompt #1.

Like good things that come in small packages, great essays can come from small word counts. But with just 250 words available to you for packing in content, you’ve got your work cut out for you. Fear not, aspiring Bucknell Bison. We’ve got just the strategy to help you crush this essay.

The good news about this prompt (besides the short word count) is that it’s straightforward: If you’ve chosen a major, Bucknell wants to know why you’ve picked that field of interest. Undeclared? No problem. Admission officers still want to know more about your academic interests. And if you’ve shown an interest in a second major, here’s your chance to elaborate on it. 

Whatever field of study you choose to talk about, the big question you’ll want to address is “why?” And, quite honestly, this is a great question to be asking—for both the essays and life in and after college.

This prompt is part “ Why Major ” and part “ Why us? ”—for full guides to those types of prompts, head to those links (where you’ll find a ton of examples). If you want a quick version for this prompt, it’s easier if you break the big question down into some smaller, more manageable ones, like:

What academic subjects have I enjoyed in high school? What did I like about them? How did I pursue them?

Were there any projects, personal experiences, internships, or extracurricular activities that excited me in high school and made me want to know more about a subject?

What question do I find myself contemplating often? How would I go about finding its answer?

What skill sets do I want to develop? How might I use those skills once I learn them?

What resources, research opportunities, or classes at Bucknell look interesting or exciting to me?

Which Bucknell professors would I like to work with or get to know better?

Here’s a great example of a prior-year Bucknell essay that addresses some of these bite-sized questions, with tips and analysis below for how you could take a similar approach, followed by a bonus sample (without analysis, but just to demonstrate a slightly different approach).

My love for chemistry started with nail polish. As a twelve-year-old girl, I loved its vibrant colors and glossy shine. I would research different methods of nail-painting, and one day I discovered a technique called water marbling. My eyes sparkled while watching the nail polish glide across water, and I was desperate to understand why it floated. To find an answer, I conducted tests with nail polish, dish soap, and toothpaste to see which of the additives would float. My curiosity with chemistry continued through baking. Watching the yeast rise in my brioche dough left me puzzled. What was causing the loaf to grow? After some preliminary research, I ran to my 10th grade chemistry teacher and begged him to explain everything about yeast fermentation. Hearing his lesson on anaerobic respiration ignited the same sparkly eyes that my twelve-year-old nail polish obsessed self knew too well. From that moment on, I knew that chemistry was the right major for me.  At Bucknell University, I hope to fuel my new passion of biochemistry through the cutting edge facilities and inspiring professors. After taking biology and organic chemistry this year, I’ve discovered that I enjoy studying human cells. I would love to continue my studies in Bucknell’s technologically advanced labs, and to initiate research under Bucknell’s biochemistry professors like Professor Rovnyak. With all of the enriching opportunities that Bucknell offers, I hope to have the best four years of my life inside and outside of a lab. (245 words) — — —

Tips + Analysis

Don’t be afraid to be a little unconventional. Have an unusual origin story for your educational interests? Let’s hear it. Often, those make for strong starts to essays and are like a breath of fresh air to admission officers. This student chose to open her chemistry-focused essay with a novel story about nail polish and marbling instead of leading with her second paragraph—a far-more-common baking-as-a-chemistry-experiment anecdote.

Go deep, not wide. It might seem tempting to try to show off several different sides of your academic curiosity—majors and minors and concentrations, oh my! But with this short word count, instead, it probably makes more sense to choose to go deep and show several major-related interests and experiences. Through her focus on biochemistry as a major, this student showed her interest in experimentation, her love of learning, and a plan for the future.

Not having a major is OK. Really. We know the feeling: It’s intimidating to respond to an essay that’s asking you about your first and second majors, when you’re still struggling with the pressure of selecting a first. Math. No, business. Wait, psychology. Breathe. It’s perfectly fine (and entirely expected) to not know what you want to major in. Bucknell thinks so too, which is why “undecided status” is specifically included as an option in the prompt. College is a time for experimentation, and we expect you’ll explore lots of new interests during your four years. So if you’re not confident in your major (or even potential major), you can just as effectively discuss an academic area you’re interested in learning more about. We’d bet you can’t tell whether the student above is a confident biochemistry major or simply a student who enjoys testing her theories on the world around her. Either way, the essay works.

Show how you fit together. There’s no one right answer in terms of how much you should focus on the backstory of how and why you became interested in an academic field, and how much “Why us?” detail you include—roughly half and half is fine, or you could lean more toward one than the other. But be sure to add some classes, programs, and professors that are specific to Bucknell and that align with your interests and values. In this essay, the author uses her conclusion as a place to discuss what her college experience at Buckell might look like, with a few specific details related to Bucknell. Showing curiosity and enthusiasm, she convinces us she’s had solid past experiences and is well-prepared for her future.

Here’s an example essay (written for UPenn, and thus over word count for Bucknell) that includes more “Why us?” details, just so you can see a different balance and level of specificity.

Bonus example essay:

In essence, I am a woman of two personas: the first, a young Muslim determined to combat government corruption and the second, an aspiring, unbounded traveler and global citizen whose identity transcends her nationality. Whether it’s justifying my choice to don the hijab or debating over the global refugee crisis, politics has always stood at the center of who I am.  Set on advancing change within my own community, I joined the NJ Help Center. There I worked with immigrant families, translating applications for housing aid and health insurance while immersing myself in the stories of their escapes from war-torn countries and crippling economies. It wasn’t until I came across it myself did these extraordinary tales become a striking reality.  Through my travels, a fascination with international studies and human rights sparked. After witnessing the maltreatment of migrant workers in the Middle East, I found my calling: laborers left at sunrise in desert mountains with nothing but a broom, a bottle of water, and a single meal to last them the day. How is that humane?  At Penn, these are the kinds of questions I want to pursue in courses like Professor Simmons’ International Law . But I don’t just want to ask questions, I want to understand the complexities of attaining much needed innovations within our complicated society. I look forward to delving into topics ranging from reproductive rights to genocide prevention and even prison reform. In LGST 224, I’ll figure out the effects of globalization on civil liberties. I believe that Penn will provide me a platform to speak on issues within our very own communities through initiatives like SWAIIR, where I can work alongside my peers to advocate for immigrants in the wider Philadelphia area. At the Penn International Development Conference, I can gain knowledge on 21st century issues impeding worldwide development through speakers from the US Department of State, World Bank, and more.  But I would be incomplete if I didn’t also study linguistics at Penn. Growing up, language played a key role within my life. Surrounded by a diverse group of individuals, I was exposed to Bengali, Hindi, Urdu, Telugu, Tamil, Korean, Arabic, Pashto, and French. I am intrigued to not only learn new languages but to discover their roots, historical context, their properties, and influence they have on society.  And some day, in addition to being a world voyager and language enthusiast, I will become the first hijabi United States Ambassador to the United Nations, a journey I embarked on at Penn. 

Want advice on dozens of other supplemental essays? Click here

Special thanks to Julia for contributing to this post.

Julia published her first “book” on the elusive Pika in elementary school and has been writing fervently ever since. She’s thrilled to unite her quirky love of grammar and master’s in psychology to help students tell their most meaningful stories. Her favorite punctuation mark is the apostrophe because, in the words of Imagine Dragons, it’s “a symbol to remind you that there’s more to see.”

Top values: Collaboration | Family | Productivity

Bucknell University Supplemental Essay 2022-23

Bucknell Supplemental Essay 2022-23

A top private liberal arts college, Bucknell University is located in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. If you are considering applying to Bucknell, you’re likely a motivated student with many accomplishments. As such, your application to Bucknell might include high grades, several extracurriculars, and perhaps stellar test scores. But, it’s important not to overlook a key part of your application: the Bucknell supplemental essay.

In this guide, we’ll review which Bucknell essays are required and how to write a standout  Bucknell supplemental essay. We’ll discuss Bucknell essay prompts—including the very common “why major” essay—and how to approach them.

Before writing your Bucknell supplemental essay, it’s important to learn more about Bucknell University itself. Learning about a school can help you write a strong Bucknell supplemental essay.

Bucknell Essays: Quick Facts

• Bucknell University Acceptance Rate:  33%.  U.S. News  ranks Bucknell as a more selective school. 
• 1 (~600-650 word) personal statement
• 1 (~ 250 word) Bucknell supplemental essay
• Bucknell University Application:  Students must submit their Bucknell University application through the  Common Application or the Coalition Application . Make sure to have all of your Bucknell University supplemental essays and other  required application materials  ready when applying. 
• Early Decision: November 15th
• Early Decision II: January 15th
• Regular Decision: January 15th 
• Bucknell University Essay Tip:  There is only one Bucknell University supplemental essay to complete. Use the space to provide specific information about your interests and how they fit with Bucknell’s offerings. 

A Closer Look at Bucknell University

Bucknell is a small liberal arts school with a student population of 3,741 as of fall 2021. Each year, around 12,000 bright students apply to Bucknell, of whom just under 4,000 are admitted on average. As a result, the Bucknell acceptance rate stands at around 33% . This makes Bucknell admissions fairly selective.

Without a doubt, Bucknell is one of the best colleges in Pennsylvania . The Bucknell University ranking in U.S. News is #37 among liberal arts colleges. With 64 areas of study and a 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio, Bucknell offers students an array of academic opportunities in an intimate learning environment.

Students can enroll in one of Bucknell’s three colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences , the College of Engineering , or the Freeman College of Management . Moreover, Bucknell connects students with a wide array of research opportunities and experiences beyond the classroom like study abroad and internships.

Socially, Bucknell’s rural location helps in fostering a strong sense of community among students. According to student reviews in Niche , Bucknell’s fraternities and sororities are also a major part of social life on campus.

As we can tell, Bucknell has much to offer students. However, in your Bucknell essays, it’s important to showcase not only Bucknell’s strengths but yours as well. As we continue, we’ll dive more into the Bucknell essays and, specifically, the Bucknell supplemental essay.

Does Bucknell have a supplemental essay?

Yes, Bucknell does have a supplemental essay. Now that we’ve answered the question “Does Bucknell have a supplemental essay?”, let’s get into the details. There is one Bucknell supplemental essay that is 250 words in length. The Bucknell University supplemental essay prompt is:

Please explain your interest in your first-choice major/undecided status and your second-choice major, should you opt to list one.

In the world of college essays, most prompts are asking students to talk about the same few topics. This question is what we consider a “why major” essay. Later, we’ll discuss this type of essay and how to write a compelling response. Before we do so, let’s take a look at all of the requirements for Bucknell essays. 

Bucknell Essay Requirements

As you put together your Bucknell application, you’ll want to give special attention to the essays. The Bucknell essays are an opportunity for you to showcase parts of your personality and experience not evident elsewhere on your application. These can range from hobbies and personal interests to influences from your unique background.

In total, there are two Bucknell essays required for the application. First, there’s the personal statement. Both the Common App and Coalition App require you to write a personal statement . This same personal statement is then submitted to all the schools which require one. But you might be wondering, what is a personal statement?

A personal statement is an essay of 650 words or less that introduces you to admissions officers. It showcases your personality and unique voice. You may find that many sample personal statements do not focus on something spectacular or life-changing. Instead, effective personal statements demonstrate the writer’s unique qualities, are detailed and compelling to read, and are well-written. 

Secondly, you’ll have to submit a response to the Bucknell supplemental essay prompt. Since this essay is only 250 words in length, you’ll have to be concise as well as compelling and convincing. In a later section, we’ll provide tips for how to write the Bucknell supplemental essay.

Bucknell Supplemental Essay #1- Why Major Essay

By now, we’ve explored the Bucknell essays you’ll write for your college application. In this section, we’ll dive deeper into how to reply to the Bucknell University supplemental essay prompt. As a reminder, the Bucknell supplemental essay prompt is: 

This type of essay is called a “why major” essay. In a “why major essay,” your goal is to share your academic passions with admissions officers. If you have already chosen a major, your essay should provide a compelling story for your interest in that area. For undecided applicants, a strong Bucknell supplemental essay still illustrates their academic curiosity and interests.

Basic Tips for the Bucknell Supplemental Essay

To brainstorm, consider your earliest memories of being interested in that subject and consider what prompted your interest. Did you watch films that sparked your interest in math? Maybe you used to spend long summer days reading in the park. Or perhaps, you have a passion for taking apart electronics to see how they work.

Your essay doesn’t need to be extremely formal, either—rather, prioritize showing your genuine passion for your major. Admissions officers are interested in how your mind works and what energizes you. This is, after all, a big part of why they would want to admit you.

Furthermore, another goal of the ‘why major’ essay is to emphasize why you want to study at a specific school. Bucknell’s admissions staff know you are applying to multiple schools and could probably find your major at many of them. As such, they might be wondering, why Bucknell? To answer this question, you’ll have to do some research and learn more about what makes Bucknell special.

For example, in the Bucknell supplemental essay, you might emphasize research questions that intrigue you. Other common themes are specific research opportunities you’d want to explore or professors whose research aligns with your interests. Furthermore, you might highlight study abroad opportunities you would take advantage of or clubs that would feed your interest. 

How to choose a major?

You might be wondering, what if I don’t know which of the Bucknell majors is for me? There are so many majors that it can be hard to choose , but being undecided is no problem. You’ll notice in this prompt that Bucknell allows you to write about your undecided status as well. With this option, you should still give admissions officers a sense of what kinds of questions or topics interest you.

We’ve learned a lot about the Bucknell supplemental essay. You might be curious how to even begin writing the essay. In the next section, we’ll look at more suggestions and tips for writing the Bucknell supplemental essay.

How to write the Bucknell Supplemental Essay?

Up until now, we’ve explored how the Bucknell supplemental essay is a “why major” essay. We’ll now take a look at additional tips for writing a strong Bucknell University supplemental essay. 

Write about what genuinely interests you

Undoubtedly, the Bucknell acceptance rate is competitive. With an estimated 12,000 applications each year, Bucknell admissions officers must read many essays. Indeed, they probably hear about many of the same common or “safe” topics and interests over and over. Surely, there are few things more boring than reading the same essay a thousand times. For that reason, it’s critical that your essay stands out . 

One of the most important things in an impactful essay is to write about topics that genuinely interest you. In this way, your essay will inevitably feel authentic and contain your unique voice. Don’t try too hard to make your essay sound interesting—it will be if it’s about your life. For example, if you know you love chemistry because you love studying the ingredients in makeup, then write about that. No topic is too small to be the focus of your essay.

Focus on a core theme

The Bucknell supplemental essay asks you to write about your top one or two academic areas of study, or majors. As a high school student, you may have multiple interests that you are exploring. While this is totally fine, remember that you have only 250 words of space in this essay. As such, it’s important to pick one or two themes to focus your essay on.

How do you choose which of the Bucknell majors to highlight? Spend some time reflecting on your academic and personal experiences. Look for trends between them. For example, perhaps you had many pets growing up and loved studying animal anatomy in biology class. Perhaps this is a sign that biology—and a pre-vet path—could be for you. 

Remember, you can always change your area of study once you get to college. Maybe once you arrive there, other Bucknell majors will draw you in. That’s perfectly okay. In fact, it’s very common. An estimated 50-75% of undergraduate students change their major at least once while in college. No one at Bucknell will look back at your supplemental essay and critique your decision to switch majors. Most importantly, admissions officers want to see that you’ve given thought to your future and are specifically interested in Bucknell’s offerings.

Be specific

Without a doubt, the key to writing a convincing and compelling Bucknell supplemental essay is to be specific. Rather than saying, “I have always been interested in biology,” find a story that illustrates your long-held interest in biology. For example, maybe you played with science experiment kits as a child. Describe your experience with those kits and their connection to the present day. With these details, you’ll set your essay apart from the thousands of others that the admissions officers must read.

Reference Bucknell 

One of the most important ways to be specific in your Bucknell supplemental essay is to reference Bucknell. For example, identify specific areas of study, research opportunities, study abroad programs, or anything else that relates to your interest. By referencing Bucknell’s offerings, you demonstrate that you’ve not only done your research but truly want to attend the school.

The Bucknell supplemental essay is critical for having a strong application. However, it is only one piece of your application. Now that we’ve reviewed key tips for writing a good Bucknell supplemental essay, we’ll investigate the role that the essay plays in the admissions process. 

Bucknell Essays and the Bucknell Admissions Process

At this point, your core question might have shifted away from “Does Bucknell have a supplemental essay?” You may be asking, ”What role does the Bucknell supplemental essay play in the Bucknell admissions process?” In this section, we’ll explore the factors that influence admissions. 

First, it’s important to recognize that the Bucknell acceptance rate isn’t very high. This is one fact that influences—or is influenced by—the high Bucknell University ranking. As such, it’s important to give your application thought and make every effort to stand out.

Thankfully, you have many opportunities to make your case, since the admissions process is holistic in nature. This means that admissions officers look at multiple aspects of your application to consider who you are as a whole student to understand whether you would fit well at their school. From transcripts to recommendation letters , each piece of the application requires careful consideration. 

Now, we’ll explore a few of the key pieces of your application and how they fit into the admissions process:

Undoubtedly, a critical piece of your Bucknell application is your transcript and Secondary School Report (SRS). You probably know about transcripts, but the SRS is a form that reports your grades and facts about your school. Through these records, schools can get a sense of your academic performance over your high school career.

They might be looking at factors such as class rigor, changes in your grades over time, or your electives. Besides your transcript, the SRS gives further context for your school environment. An SRS may include your class rank, counselor notes on your character, or your school’s demographic and academic information.

Test Scores

As of 2020, Bucknell is piloting a five-year test-optional policy. As such, SAT or ACT scores are not currently required for the 2022-2023 school year. This doesn’t mean that you can’t submit scores. In fact, if your scores strengthen your application by being at or above the average range for admitted applications, then you’d likely choose to submit them. If they are omitted, then admissions officers will weigh other components of your application more heavily. 

One important note is that if you are admitted to Bucknell, you are still required to submit test scores for the school’s internal research. However, at this point, your admission will be guaranteed regardless of your test scores.

Writing strong responses to the Bucknell essay prompts is an important part of your application. This is especially true if your grades or test scores aren’t as strong as other students who apply to Bucknell. As we mentioned, your essays will be weighed more heavily if you choose not to submit test scores. So, to create a strong application, spend time responding to the two Bucknell essay prompts. 

To summarize, the first essay is the personal statement, which is required for most Common App or Coalition App applications. The personal statement is your introduction to Bucknell and showcases your personality to admissions officers. The second essay is the Bucknell supplemental essay, which provides more context on your academic goals should you attend Bucknell. In this essay, it’s important to be specific about why you want to attend Bucknell. More specifically, admissions officers want to know how attending Bucknell will help you pursue your academic passions.

Indeed, every part of your application is critical. However, the essays are the best place within your application to showcase your uniqueness. If you respond authentically to the Bucknell essay prompts, admissions officers will have a hard time turning down your application.

Bucknell Supplemental Essay – 5 Takeaways

When applying to college, there are many steps in the process. In this article, we introduced you to the Bucknell essay prompts and focused on the Bucknell supplemental essay. We’ll now highlight five takeaways that you should keep in mind as you work on your Bucknell application:

Main Takeaways

1. Bucknell is a competitive school with lots to offer

As we described above, getting into Bucknell isn’t easy. The Bucknell University ranking makes it one of the top schools in the nation. Specifically, it shines in the liberal arts, which offer a well-rounded approach to education. Bucknell’s offerings allow students to learn both in and out of the classroom. The school attracts motivated students who want to be part of its strong community. The essays in your Bucknell application should demonstrate your keen interest in specific aspects of the school. 

2. Applying to Bucknell requires a thoughtful approach

At CollegeAdvisor, we help students take a thoughtful approach to their college process. For example, we work with students to develop an application strategy, like workshopping essays and deciding on application deadlines . When you apply to Bucknell, it’s important to be thoughtful about how your application will look to an admissions officer. Not just essays, but your test scores and extracurriculars as well, will determine the strength of your Bucknell application.

3. The Bucknell essays are your chance to stand out

When colleges use a holistic admissions process, it means that they don’t strictly base admissions on one factor, like grades. Rather, they want to know who you are as a person on many different levels. As such, your essays are your opportunity to show who you are and what makes you different from other students. Take the time to brainstorm topics, draft a cohesive essay, and get feedback from others.

4. Strong essays are compelling

In this article, we’ve discussed some tips for writing a strong essay. The bottom line is that strong essays are compelling. In other words, they aren’t general or vague—they illustrate who you are through specific life events or details. They demonstrate that you have given thought to what your experience at Bucknell would be like. Lastly, they represent your unique voice. Reading various essay examples can help as you draft and revise your essays.

5. Be yourself

Our final and perhaps most important piece of advice is to be yourself, especially when writing your essays. If you find yourself wondering what admissions officers want to hear or embellishing experiences to impress, you’ve probably gone astray. Rather, spend time thinking about what is most important and interesting to you. Speak from your own heart, and you’re much more likely to be a successful applicant.

Now that we’ve introduced you to the Bucknell essay prompts and the Bucknell supplemental essay, it’s up to you to craft your essays. If you’re fighting stress over applications to Bucknell or any other school, CollegeAdvisor is here to help. With everything from essay guides to personalized advising, we’ve got what you need to succeed in your college admissions journey. In fact, our advisors can help you brainstorm topics, edit your essay, and put together a winning application strategy.

This Bucknell University essay guide was written by Courtney Ng . Looking for more admissions support? Click here to schedule a free meeting with one of our Admissions Specialists. During your meeting, our team will discuss your profile and help you find targeted ways to increase your admissions odds at top schools. We’ll also answer any questions and discuss how CollegeAdvisor.com can support you in the college application process.

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Bucknell Requirements for Admission

Choose your test.

What are Bucknell's admission requirements? While there are a lot of pieces that go into a college application, you should focus on only a few critical things:

• GPA requirements
• Testing requirements, including SAT and ACT requirements
• Application requirements

In this guide we'll cover what you need to get into Bucknell and build a strong application.

School location: Lewisburg, PA

This school is also known as: Bucknell University

Admissions Rate: 32.6%

If you want to get in, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate. This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are.

The acceptance rate at Bucknell is 32.6% . For every 100 applicants, 33 are admitted.

This means the school is very selective . If you meet Bucknell's requirements for GPA, SAT/ACT scores, and other components of the application, you have a great shot at getting in. But if you fall short on GPA or your SAT/ACT scores, you'll have a very low chance of being admitted, even if you meet the other admissions requirements.

We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world's best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies . We've overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools , from state colleges to the Ivy League.

We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools.

Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in.

Bucknell GPA Requirements

Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected.

The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school's average GPA for its current students.

Average GPA: 3.63

The average GPA at Bucknell is 3.63 .

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.

With a GPA of 3.63, Bucknell requires you to be above average in your high school class. You'll need at least a mix of A's and B's, with more A's than B's. You can compensate for a lower GPA with harder classes, like AP or IB classes. This will show that you're able to handle more difficult academics than the average high school student.

If you're currently a junior or senior, your GPA is hard to change in time for college applications. If your GPA is at or below the school average of 3.63, you'll need a higher SAT or ACT score to compensate . This will help you compete effectively against other applicants who have higher GPAs than you.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them.

Bucknell hasn't explicitly named a policy on SAT/ACT requirements, but because it's published average SAT or ACT scores (we'll cover this next), it's likely test flexible. Typically, these schools say, "if you feel your SAT or ACT score represents you well as a student, submit them. Otherwise, don't."

Despite this policy, the truth is that most students still take the SAT or ACT, and most applicants to Bucknell will submit their scores. If you don't submit scores, you'll have one fewer dimension to show that you're worthy of being admitted, compared to other students. We therefore recommend that you consider taking the SAT or ACT, and doing well.

Bucknell SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school's average score.

Average SAT: 1280

The average SAT score composite at Bucknell is a 1280 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes Bucknell Competitive for SAT test scores.

Bucknell SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 1180, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1390. In other words, a 1180 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1390 will move you up to above average .

Here's the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

SAT Score Choice Policy

The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.

Bucknell has the Score Choice policy of "Highest Section."

This is also known as "superscoring." This means that you can choose which SAT tests you want to send to the school. Of all the scores they receive, your application readers will consider your highest section scores across all SAT test dates you submit .

Click below to learn more about how superscoring critically affects your test strategy.

For example, say you submit the following 3 test scores:

Even though the highest total you scored on any one test date was 1000, Bucknell will take your highest section score from all your test dates, then combine them to form your Superscore. You can raise your composite score from 1000 to 1400 in this example.

This is important for your testing strategy. Because you can choose which tests to send in, and Bucknell forms your Superscore, you can take the SAT as many times as you want, then submit only the tests that give you the highest Superscore. Your application readers will only see that one score.

Therefore, if your SAT superscore is currently below a 1390, we strongly recommend that you consider prepping for the SAT and retaking it . You have a very good chance of raising your score, which will significantly boost your chances of getting in.

Even better, because of the Superscore, you can focus all your energy on a single section at a time. If your Reading score is lower than your other sections, prep only for the Reading section, then take the SAT. Then focus on Math for the next test, and so on. This will give you the highest Superscore possible.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

Bucknell ACT Requirements

Just like for the SAT, Bucknell likely doesn't have a hard ACT cutoff, but if you score too low, your application will get tossed in the trash.

Average ACT: 29

The average ACT score at Bucknell is 29. This score makes Bucknell Moderately Competitive for ACT scores.

The 25th percentile ACT score is 27, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 32.

Even though Bucknell likely says they have no minimum ACT requirement, if you apply with a 27 or below, you'll have a very hard time getting in, unless you have something else very impressive in your application. There are so many applicants scoring 29 and above that a 27 will look academically weak.

ACT Score Sending Policy

If you're taking the ACT as opposed to the SAT, you have a huge advantage in how you send scores, and this dramatically affects your testing strategy.

Here it is: when you send ACT scores to colleges, you have absolute control over which tests you send. You could take 10 tests, and only send your highest one. This is unlike the SAT, where many schools require you to send all your tests ever taken.

This means that you have more chances than you think to improve your ACT score. To try to aim for the school's ACT requirement of 32 and above, you should try to take the ACT as many times as you can. When you have the final score that you're happy with, you can then send only that score to all your schools.

ACT Superscore Policy

By and large, most colleges do not superscore the ACT. (Superscore means that the school takes your best section scores from all the test dates you submit, and then combines them into the best possible composite score). Thus, most schools will just take your highest ACT score from a single sitting.

We weren't able to find the school's exact ACT policy, which most likely means that it does not Superscore. Regardless, you can choose your single best ACT score to send in to Bucknell, so you should prep until you reach our recommended target ACT score of 32.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

SAT/ACT Writing Section Requirements

Currently, only the ACT has an optional essay section that all students can take. The SAT used to also have an optional Essay section, but since June 2021, this has been discontinued unless you are taking the test as part of school-day testing in a few states. Because of this, no school requires the SAT Essay or ACT Writing section, but some schools do recommend certain students submit their results if they have them.

Bucknell considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don't need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you're applying to may require it.

Final Admissions Verdict

Because this school is very selective, strong academic scores are critical to improving your chances of admission . If you're able to score a 1390 SAT or a 32 ACT or above, you'll have a very strong chance at getting in.

For a school as selective as Bucknell, rounding out the rest of your application will also help. We'll cover those details next.

But if you apply with a score below a 1390 SAT or a 32 ACT, you unfortunately have a low chance of getting in. There are just too many other applicants with high SAT/ACT scores and strong applications, and you need to compete against them.

Admissions Calculator

Here's our custom admissions calculator. Plug in your numbers to see what your chances of getting in are. Pick your test: SAT ACT

• 80-100%: Safety school: Strong chance of getting in
• 50-80%: More likely than not getting in
• 20-50%: Lower but still good chance of getting in
• 5-20%: Reach school: Unlikely to get in, but still have a shot
• 0-5%: Hard reach school: Very difficult to get in

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Application Requirements

Every school requires an application with the bare essentials - high school transcript and GPA, application form, and other core information. Many schools, as explained above, also require SAT and ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation, application essays, and interviews. We'll cover the exact requirements of Bucknell here.

Application Requirements Overview

• Common Application Accepted
• Electronic Application Available
• Essay or Personal Statement Required for all freshmen
• Letters of Recommendation 1
• Interview Not required
• Application Fee $50
• Fee Waiver Available? Available
• Other Notes

Testing Requirements

• SAT or ACT Considered if submitted
• SAT Essay or ACT Writing Optional
• SAT Subject Tests
• Scores Due in Office February 15

Coursework Requirements

• Subject Required Years
• Foreign Language 2
• Social Studies 2
• Electives 1

Deadlines and Early Admissions

• Offered? Deadline Notification
• Yes January 15 April 1
• Yes November 15, January 15 December 15, February 15

Admissions Office Information

• Address: One Dent Drive Lewisburg, PA 17837
• Phone: (570) 577-2000 x2000
• Fax: (570) 577-3538
• Email: [email protected]

Other Schools For You

If you're interested in Bucknell, you'll probably be interested in these schools as well. We've divided them into 3 categories depending on how hard they are to get into, relative to Bucknell.

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than Bucknell. If you improve your SAT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

Same Level: Equally Hard to Get Into

If you're competitive for Bucknell, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you're currently competitive for Bucknell, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If Bucknell is currently out of your reach, you might already be competitive for these schools.

Data on this page is sourced from Peterson's Databases © 2023 (Peterson's LLC. All rights reserved.) as well as additional publicly available sources.

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We don’t feed your GPA and test scores into some sort of algorithm. We read your application personally and carefully, absorbing everything you provide so we can understand all that makes you unique.

When you’re ready, apply using either the Common Application or the Coalition Application. We look forward to meeting you.

Learn about applying at bucknell.edu/apply

All Applicants

Two years of a foreign language (in the same language) in secondary school

Math and Science Applicants

Three years of college-preparatory math

Engineering Applicants

One year of chemistry or physics, plus one year of precalculus

A note about test scores : Bucknell is now test-optional, meaning you decide whether to include SAT or ACT scores when applying. Your choice has no bearing on our admissions decision. If you share your scores, we’ll consider them when reviewing your application. If you don’t, we won’t.

*Recalculated unweighted average

• Select a college : You’ll apply to one of our three colleges: Arts & Sciences, Engineering or the Freeman College of Management. Take a moment to explore the majors and minors within each college. (Note: For the Freeman College of Management, you must be admitted into the college as a first-year student. You can’t transfer into the Freeman College later.)
• Be yourself : We don’t require a Bucknell-specific supplemental essay, but we are eager to see the personal essay you’ll submit with the Common or Coalition app. We read these essays closely and enjoy getting to know the real you.
• Choose a major … : We’ll ask you to select a first-choice major (and a second, if you’d like) and briefly (250 words or fewer) explain the reason behind your choice.
• … or apply undecided : Unsure of your major? There’s no penalty for applying undecided; in fact, it’s a great way to explore multiple interests. First, select the college to which you’re applying. Then choose “undecided” as your first-choice major.
• Apply for a scholarship : Through our robust scholarship program, we invest in students who are talented, inquisitive and equipped to make the next big breakthrough. Apply when you apply for admission.
• Select a college: You’ll apply to one of our three colleges: Arts & Sciences, Engineering or the Freeman College of Management. Take a moment to explore the majors and minors within each college. (Note: For the Freeman College of Management, you must be admitted into the college as a first-year student. You can’t transfer into the Freeman College later.)
• Be yourself: We don’t require a Bucknell-specific supplemental essay, but we are eager to see the personal essay you’ll submit with the Common or Coalition app. We read these essays closely and enjoy getting to know the real you.
• … or apply undecided: Unsure of your major? There’s no penalty for applying undecided; in fact, it’s a great way to explore multiple interests. First, select the college to which you’re applying. Then choose “undecided” as your first-choice major.

Graham Heckert ’23 put Bucknell on his radar because he was looking for a smaller school where he wouldn’t get lost in the crowd. The mechanical engineering major from St. Petersburg, Fla., also wanted to conduct meaningful research into electric vehicles right away — not after a year or three of lectures.

Bucknell made his short list, and a Presidential Fellows scholarship — one of several scholarships available to incoming students — cemented Graham’s decision to come to Bucknell.

“I thought, I can end up going to a big school, or I can go to a small school with one-on-one interaction with teachers and all the research opportunities I could possibly imagine my very first year,” he says. “It was a no-brainer.”

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3 Tips for Writing the Bucknell Supplemental Essay

This article was written based on the information and opinions presented by Vinay Bhaskara in a CollegeVine livestream. You can watch the full livestream for more info.

What’s Covered:

Show the depth of your passions, be specific, use your words effectively.

In this article, we share strategies for writing the Bucknell University supplemental essay , including how to show the depth of your passions, be specific in your writing, and use your words effectively.

One critical thing to keep in mind when writing the Bucknell supplemental essay is the importance of demonstrating the depth of your passions. Ideally, you want to go an extra layer deeper about the subjects and concepts that you want to explore at Bucknell.

For example, if you are interested in studying economics, writing simply, “I love economics,” is not the strongest way to approach this prompt. Instead, writing your essay about monetary policy and delving into a specific concept like inflation targeting would show much more insight into your passion for economics as a subject.

After choosing a specific topic related to a discipline that you are interested in, the next step is to highlight the related opportunities that you want to pursue at Bucknell. Continuing the economics example, an effective essay would next talk about a monetary policy-specific course track or extracurricular opportunity at Bucknell, showing that you have done your research and are committed to attending Bucknell.

Include Specific Details But Don’t Waste Space

Another factor to consider is including college-specific content in this essay response. This can be difficult for some students to achieve, but it is critical to include a few specific details that are unique to the college while not spending too much time doing so. 

A good rule of thumb for including school-specific details is to aim for spending no more than 10% to 20% of the total essay length on them, so between 25 and 50 words at most for this particular essay.

Highlight a School’s Unique Philosophy or Approach to Teaching

The best thing that you can write about in this section of the essay is a unique philosophy, teaching approach, or opportunity that the program you are interested in at Bucknell has. For example, at the University of Chicago, the economics program is renowned, as is the interdisciplinary learning academic approach at the University of Pennsylvania. 

That said, even if you can’t quite fit this into your essay, just talking about classes and extracurricular opportunities and connecting them to why you want to study your major at Bucknell will be good enough. When doing this, be careful to avoid just name-dropping a factoid without adding insight as to why it’s important to you. Instead, try to include a specific detail, such as a course name, and connect it back to why you want to study the major in the first place.

The third tip to consider when writing the Bucknell supplemental essay is to be concise. You only have 250 words to write this essay, so you don’t want to waste space on unnecessarily wordy responses that limit the number of actual points that you can get across. 

Additionally, stay away from explicitly rephrasing the prompt, like: “I am interested in this major because . . .”  First, a response like this can make you sound robotic, and second, it’s just a wordy way of saying something that you could instead show throughout the essay. 

Avoid or Reduce Anecdotes

Another tip for this essay in particular is to stay away from anecdotes entirely or only use one anecdote.

When you write an anecdote, it’s often easy to get too focused on the stories, and when you only have 250 words, this may not leave enough space to reflect on or articulate why you love your intended major. 

Don’t Be Afraid to Reduce Your Word Count Later

One final tip for this essay is to not be afraid to write beyond the word count. For the Bucknell supplemental essay, this could look like an extra 300 to 350 words. Then, cut back the essay to 250 words later in the editing process.

This strategy works because when you allow yourself to write more and explore your thoughts on the topic fully, it often brings out the best ideas and writing. Some people are afraid to cut back words and sentences, but after looking at an essay multiple times, you’ll find that it becomes easier to edit out the excess. It’s also simpler to reduce an essay that is too long than it is to add more good content to an essay that has already been drafted.

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In the academic year 2019-2020, Bucknell began a five-year pilot program for which students are not required to submit an SAT or ACT score with their application. For the 2019-2020 application cycle, home-schooled students, international citizens and recruited athletes were required to submit an SAT or ACT score.  Starting in the 2020-2021 application cycle through the remainder of the pilot program, all applicants may choose to be test optional.

However, all students who choose to enroll at Bucknell will be required to submit an SAT or ACT score before they begin their first year. These scores will only be used in the assessment of the test-optional program and will not impact the admission decision already made.  Note: If you have never taken the SAT or ACT and do not have scores available, you will not be required to submit a score upon enrollment. In the spring 2023 semester, it was determined to extend the test-optional pilot for two additional years.

Applicants who chose to submit the SAT or the ACT examination may take the exam either in the junior year of high school or the fall of senior year.  Applicants may submit self-reported SAT/ACT scores for admissions consideration. Should a student be admitted and choose to enroll at Bucknell, official SAT/ACT scores will be required after deposit. Test results may also be sent directly from a test organization to Bucknell University (SAT code 2050 and ACT code 3528). Information on the SAT is available at sat.org and on the ACT at actstudent.org . Applicants do not need to complete the optional essay section on either the SAT or ACT.

Applicants for whom English is not the first language or whose primary language of instruction  for at least three years of secondary school was not English are required to submit scores for either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Pearson Language Tests (PTE), or Duolingo English Test (DET) . The minimum recommended TOEFL score is 600 on the paper-based exam (PBT) or 100 on the internet-based exam (IBT). The minimum recommended score is 7 on the IELTS, 68 on the PTE Academic exam, and 130 on the DET. Information on the TOEFL is available at ets.org/toefl , the IELTS at ielts.org , the PTE Academic at pearsonpte.com , and the DET at englishtest.duolingo.com . Test results must be sent directly from the test organization to Bucknell University.

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Bucknell University 2023-24 Supplemental Essay Prompt Guide

Regular Decision Deadline: Jan 15

You Have: 

Bucknell University 2023-24 Application Essay Question Explanations 

The Requirements: One e ssay of 250 words

Supplemental Essay Type(s): Why

Please explain your interest in your first-choice major/undecided status and your second-choice major (should you opt to list one) and why you would choose Bucknell University to pursue your interest(s). (250 words maximum).

This prompt is asking you to describe what you want to major in and explain why you like it so much that you’re willing to dedicate four years of life to its study. The admissions officer reviewing your application will likely expect you to connect your intended major to some prior experience and/or passion as well, so tell a story. The essays that stick with us are the ones that jump off the page with concrete descriptions from real life. What interests you and why? How have you gone about learning more about your subject of interest? Have you spent hours doing a deep dive on Reddit or learned a new skill from a TikTok tutorial? What will this degree (or dual degree) allow you to do? While you don’t need to narrow in on the exact moment you became interested in Geology or Music Education, try to focus on one significant experience. Then stress why Bucknell, specifically, is the best place for you to pursue this chosen major (or, if you’re undecided, why it’s the best place for you to explore different interests in the interim). If you can point to specific resources (classes, professors, clubs, etc.), your response will be stronger for it. 

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Unlocking Bucknell: Admission Requirements Essentials

• January 2, 2024
• General Information

Table of Contents

• 1 Introduction to Bucknell University
• 2 What Makes Bucknell Unique?
• 3 Admission Requirements for Undergraduate Programs
• 4 Standardized Test Scores
• 5 GPA and Class Rank
• 6 Extracurricular Activities
• 7 Personal Essays and Letters of Recommendation
• 8 Tips for a Strong Application
• 9 Financial Aid and Scholarships
• 10 Conclusion

Introduction to Bucknell University

Welcome to the world of Bucknell University, where academic excellence meets boundless opportunities. If you’re a high school student dreaming of unlocking the doors to an exceptional education and unforgettable experiences, you’ve come to the right place! In this blog post, we will dive deep into Bucknell’s admission requirements and uncover what it takes to become a part of this prestigious institution.

But before we delve into the nitty-gritty details, let’s take a moment to appreciate what makes Bucknell truly unique. Imagine being surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that inspire creativity and foster personal growth. Picture yourself engaging with passionate professors who are dedicated to your success both inside and outside the classroom. At Bucknell, innovation is not just encouraged – it’s celebrated!

Now that we have set the stage for our exploration, let’s jump right into understanding what it takes to join this extraordinary community. So grab your pencils (or keyboards) as we unravel everything you need to know about Bucknell University’s admission requirements for undergraduate programs!

What Makes Bucknell Unique?

Bucknell University stands apart from other institutions, offering a unique educational experience that sets it apart from the rest. One of the key factors that make Bucknell unique is its commitment to interdisciplinary learning. Here, students are encouraged to explore diverse areas of study and integrate knowledge across disciplines.

Another distinguishing feature of Bucknell is its close-knit community. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, students benefit from personalized attention and mentorship opportunities with professors who genuinely care about their success.

The campus itself also contributes to what makes Bucknell special. Nestled in the picturesque town of Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, surrounded by rolling hills and scenic landscapes, studying at Bucknell feels like being part of a vibrant community within nature’s beauty.

Furthermore, Bucknell prides itself on fostering global perspectives through extensive study abroad programs and partnerships with international universities. This allows students to engage with different cultures and broaden their horizons beyond traditional classroom settings.

Bucknell emphasizes hands-on learning experiences such as internships, research projects, and service-learning initiatives. These opportunities enable students to apply theoretical knowledge acquired in class to real-world situations while making meaningful contributions.

Also Read:   Boston University’s Admission Requirements Unraveled

Admission Requirements for Undergraduate Programs

When it comes to applying to Bucknell University’s undergraduate programs, there are a few essential admission requirements that you need to keep in mind. While the university takes a holistic approach to reviewing applications, these factors play a significant role in the decision-making process.

• Standardized Test Scores Bucknell considers both SAT and ACT scores in their evaluation of applicants. It is important to aim for competitive scores that align with the university’s average range. However, it is worth noting that Bucknell has adopted a test-optional policy for the 2021-2022 admissions cycle due to disruptions caused by COVID-19.
• GPA and Class Rank Your high school academic performance also plays an important role in the admissions process. Admissions officers at Bucknell carefully review your GPA and class rank, looking for students who have demonstrated strong academic abilities throughout their high school years.
• Extracurricular Activities Bucknell values well-rounded individuals who have shown involvement outside of the classroom. Your extracurricular activities can include sports, clubs, community service, or any other pursuits that showcase your passions and interests.
• Personal Essays and Letters of Recommendation The personal essay allows you to share your unique story and aspirations with the admissions committee. This is your opportunity to stand out from other applicants by showcasing your writing skills and conveying why you would be a good fit for Bucknell University.

In addition to essays, letters of recommendation provide insight into your character from someone who knows you well academically or personally. Choose recommenders who can speak positively about your abilities, work ethic, and overall potential as a student.

As you navigate through the application process at Bucknell University, it’s crucial to remember that each applicant is evaluated individually based on their own merits rather than compared directly against others.

Standardized Test Scores

Standardized Test Scores play a crucial role in the college application process, and Bucknell University is no exception. While they are just one piece of the puzzle, these scores provide admission officers with an objective measure of your academic abilities. At Bucknell, the SAT or ACT is required for all applicants.

Bucknell does not have minimum score requirements for admission, but it’s important to aim for scores that align with their average admitted student profile. For the SAT, the middle 50% range for admitted students is typically between 1280-1430 out of a possible 1600. Similarly, for the ACT, most successful applicants score within the range of 28-32.

While test scores are important at Bucknell, they are considered in conjunction with other aspects of your application. Admission officers understand that standardized tests can be stressful and may not fully reflect your potential as a student.

It’s worth noting that starting from Fall 2022 admissions cycle onwards, Bucknell has implemented a test-optional policy. This means that if you feel your test scores do not accurately represent your abilities or if you were unable to take these exams due to COVID-related disruptions or other circumstances beyond your control, you can choose not to submit them.

However, even without test scores on hand, it becomes more important than ever to focus on presenting strong grades and engaging extracurricular activities in other parts of your application.

GPA and Class Rank

GPA and class rank play a significant role in the college admissions process, including at Bucknell University. While they are not the sole determinants of admission, they provide valuable insights into an applicant’s academic performance and potential.

At Bucknell, the average GPA for admitted students is around 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. However, it’s important to note that GPA is just one aspect considered by the admissions committee. They also assess the rigor of your high school curriculum and take into account any upward trends or challenging courses you have taken.

Class rank provides further context about where you stand academically among your peers. Although not all high schools calculate class rank in the same way, having a strong class standing can bolster your application.

If your GPA or class rank is lower than desired, don’t despair! Admissions committees understand that every student has unique circumstances and challenges. It’s crucial to focus on other aspects of your application that demonstrate intellectual curiosity, leadership skills, and personal growth.

Remember to highlight any academic achievements or awards you have received outside of your GPA or class rank. This could include honors classes or advanced placement courses you’ve taken successfully.

While GPA and class rank are important indicators of academic ability at Bucknell University as well as other institutions; they are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to gaining admission to college.

Extracurricular Activities

Extracurricular Activities: A Window Into Your Passion and Potential!

At Bucknell University, we understand that a well-rounded education extends beyond the classroom. That’s why we place great importance on your involvement in extracurricular activities. Engaging in these pursuits not only showcases your passions but also highlights your potential for growth and leadership.

Participating in clubs, sports teams, community service projects, or other extracurricular activities allows you to explore your interests outside of academics. It demonstrates your commitment to personal development and shows that you are willing to go above and beyond what is required.

Engagement in extracurriculars can also provide valuable opportunities for building relationships with peers who share similar interests. Through collaboration and teamwork, you develop crucial skills such as communication, time management, and problem-solving – essential qualities that will serve you well throughout life.

When reviewing applications, our admissions team looks for applicants who have made significant contributions or demonstrated leadership roles within their chosen activities. We value quality over quantity here at Bucknell because it’s not just about being involved; it’s about making a meaningful impact.

Remember to highlight any awards or recognition received during your time participating in extracurriculars – this sets you apart from the crowd! Additionally, don’t hesitate to discuss how these experiences have shaped your character and influenced your future goals.

Engaging actively in extracurricular activities allows us to see beyond just grades and test scores. It reveals a multidimensional aspect of yourself — one filled with passion, dedication, initiative — all qualities highly valued at Bucknell University! So go ahead – unlock those doors by showcasing what makes you truly unique through your involvement outside the classroom!

Personal Essays and Letters of Recommendation

Personal Essays and Letters of Recommendation are key components of the college application process at Bucknell University. These elements provide applicants with an opportunity to showcase their unique qualities, experiences, and achievements.

The personal essay is a chance for students to express themselves beyond their academic accomplishments. It allows admissions officers to gain insight into who they are as individuals and what they can bring to the Bucknell community. Whether discussing personal challenges overcome or highlighting a transformative experience, the essay should be authentic and well-written.

Letters of recommendation offer another perspective on an applicant’s character and abilities. Typically, students will ask teachers, counselors, or mentors who know them well to write these letters. The recommender should speak about the student’s intellectual curiosity, leadership potential, work ethic, and overall contribution to their school or community.

When writing your personal essay or requesting letters of recommendation from individuals you trust, it’s important to start early in order to give yourself ample time for revisions and feedback. Be sure that your essays reflect your voice while adhering to prompt guidelines provided by Bucknell.

Remember that both personal essays and letters of recommendation play a role in presenting a holistic picture of you as an applicant – showcasing not only your academic prowess but also providing insight into your character strengths and unique contributions. So take this opportunity seriously!

Tips for a Strong Application

• Start early: Begin your application process well in advance to give yourself ample time to gather all necessary materials, complete essays and forms, and ensure everything is submitted on time.
• Research the university: Take the time to thoroughly understand Bucknell University’s values, mission, and academic programs. Tailor your application to highlight how you align with their goals.
• Showcase your strengths: Use your personal statement and essays to showcase your unique qualities, experiences, and accomplishments that make you stand out as an applicant.
• Be authentic: Don’t try to be someone you’re not or write what you think the admissions committee wants to hear. Be genuine in expressing who you are and why Bucknell is the right fit for you.
• Seek feedback: Share drafts of your essays with trusted friends, family members, or teachers who can provide constructive criticism and help improve your writing.
• Demonstrate leadership skills: Highlight any leadership roles or experiences where you have made a positive impact within your school or community.
• Emphasize extracurricular involvement: Showcasing involvement in clubs, sports teams, volunteer work, or other activities outside of academics demonstrates a well-rounded applicant who will contribute positively on campus.
• Request strong letters of recommendation: Choose recommenders who know you well academically or personally and can speak highly of your abilities and character traits relevant to college success.
• Proofread meticulously: Avoid careless mistakes by proofreading every section of the application multiple times for grammar errors, typos, and clarity issues.
• Stay organized throughout the process by creating a checklist of required documents/deadlines so that nothing slips through the cracks!

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Financial Aid and Scholarships play a crucial role in making higher education accessible to students, and Bucknell University is committed to providing support to those who need it. The university offers a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.

Bucknell believes that finances should not be a barrier to pursuing an education. The Office of Financial Aid works closely with students and their families to determine the best possible financial aid package based on individual circumstances. They take into account factors such as family income, assets, and special circumstances when calculating the amount of aid available.

One of the key resources for financial assistance at Bucknell is through scholarships. These scholarships are awarded based on various criteria including academic achievement, leadership potential, community service involvement or other talents showcased by the applicant.

In addition to need-based aid and merit-based scholarships provided by Bucknell itself, there are also external scholarship opportunities available that can further supplement your funding. It’s worth researching these options early on in the application process so you don’t miss out on any potential sources of funding.

It’s important to note that financial aid packages may vary from year to year depending on changes in family income or other circumstances. Therefore it’s essential for students receiving aid at Bucknell University reapply each year if they still require assistance.

Applying for financial aid requires submitting the CSS Profile as well as completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). These applications provide detailed information about your family’s finances which helps determine eligibility for various types of assistance.

At Bucknell University every effort is made by its team members within its control procedures review process offering fair treatment applying rules consistently across all applicants while being sensitive enough understanding unforeseen situations facing certain individuals affecting their ability cover college costs without proper support system behind them assisting paying tuition fees required study materials room board expenses incurred during studies duration ensuring nobody left struggling afford attending classes at this prestigious institution.

Also Read:   Emerson College Admission Requirements: A Closer Look

As you can see, Bucknell University has a unique and rigorous admissions process that considers various factors beyond just test scores and grades. The university values well-rounded individuals who are not only academically strong but also actively involved in extracurricular activities and passionate about their interests.

To have a competitive application to Bucknell, it is essential to focus on achieving high standardized test scores, maintaining a solid GPA and class rank, participating in meaningful extracurricular activities, crafting compelling personal essays, and obtaining strong letters of recommendation.

Remember that the admissions committee at Bucknell takes a holistic approach when reviewing applications. They want to get to know you as an individual and understand how you will contribute to the campus community.

Additionally, don’t forget to explore the financial aid opportunities available at Bucknell. The university is committed to making education accessible for students from all backgrounds through scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and loans. Be sure to research these options thoroughly and submit any necessary documents by the deadlines.

Unlocking Bucknell’s admission requirements may seem like a challenge initially but with careful planning and preparation along with showcasing your unique qualities throughout your application materials; you’ll increase your chances of being accepted into this prestigious institution.

So go ahead! Begin exploring what makes Bucknell University stand out among other institutions while keeping in mind their specific admission requirements. Good luck on your journey towards becoming part of the vibrant community at Bucknell University!

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@bucknellu social media accounts, meet our students social media accounts, admissions dates & deadlines, 2023-2024 dates • class of 2028, aug. 1, 2023.

Common Application, Coalition Application and Bucknell supplemental member questions are available.

Oct. 1, 2023

The CSS Profile financial aid application for the 2023-24 academic year becomes available. (This financial aid application is required for U.S. citizens, permanent residents and DACA students interested in Bucknell University need-based financial aid.)

Learn more about financial aid information for international students.

Nov. 15, 2023

Early Decision I applications, with completed Early Decision Agreement form, must be submitted.

CSS Profile (Bucknell CSS code 2050) financial aid applications are due for Early Decision I applicants.

Mid-December 2023

Admissions decisions become available to Early Decision I applicants via their online application checklist. (Admissions letters will also be mailed to Early Decision I admitted students. Financial Aid award letters are available electronically with the online admit letter.)

Jan. 15, 2024

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) due for Early Decision I applicants. *

*We understand that applying Early Decision I is a significant decision for both you and your family. This year, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is anticipated to become available from the Department of Education in December. Applicants to Bucknell, including Early Decision I applicants, will have until Jan. 15 to submit the FAFSA.

Early Decision II applications, with completed Early Decision Agreement form, and Regular Decision applications must be submitted.

CSS Profile (Bucknell CSS code 2050) and the FAFSA (Bucknell school code 003238) financial aid applications are due for Early Decision II and Regular Decision applicants.

Enrollment deposits due for students admitted through Early Decision I.

Mid-February 2024

Admissions decisions available to Early Decision II applicants via their online application checklist. (Admissions letters will also be mailed to Early Decision II admitted students. Financial Aid award letters are available electronically with the online admit letter.)

Early March 2024

Enrollment deposits due for students admitted through Early Decision II.

By April 1, 2024

Admissions decisions available to Regular Decision applicants via their online application checklist at the end of March but no later than April 1. (Admissions letters will also be mailed to Regular Decision admitted students. Financial Aid award letters are available electronically with the online admit letter.)

May 1, 2024

Enrollment deposits due for students admitted through Regular Decision.

May 5, 2024

Any outstanding tax forms and verification documents for enrolling students due to Financial Aid.

June 1, 2024

Requests to defer admission for one year due to Admissions.

July 1, 2024

Official final high school transcripts for enrolling students due to Admissions.

Learn about applying to Bucknell

Important notes.

• If you are a US citizen or permanent resident applying for financial aid, the deadline for submitting the CSS Profile for Early Decision I is Nov. 15. For Early Decision II and Regular Decision, the deadline is Jan. 15. When you file the CSS Profile, you will receive an acknowledgment from the College Board that will serve as your confirmation. Bucknell will not be able to download your actual CSS Profile data into our system until late November. International students interested in applying for financial aid should refer to our website for timeline details.
• For the 2024–25 academic year, the CSS Profile will be used to determine the total amount of financial aid you are eligible to receive. Once we receive your FAFSA application, you may receive an updated award notification that will provide a breakdown of your institutional, federal and state grant allocations. While the FAFSA might lead to a change in where your financial aid is coming from (Bucknell, federal or state), the total financial aid package you receive will not change. If you have questions about financial aid, please reach out to the Office of Financial Aid at 570-577-1331.

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