Baylor University: Admissions, Tuition, Scholarships, Rankings & Top Programs

Baylor University is more than just a private Christian university in Waco, Texas — it’s a place where academic ambition meets a deep-rooted sense of community and faith. For thousands of students, Baylor becomes a second home, shaping not just careers but lives. With a beautiful campus, strong academic offerings, and a culture rooted in values and service, Baylor stands out as one of the largest Christian universities in the U.S.

From business and law to health sciences and engineering, Baylor offers top-tier programs that draw in students from all over the world. But what truly sets it apart is how it balances intellectual growth with spiritual development. Students don’t just come here to earn degrees — they come to grow as individuals, make lifelong connections, and discover who they’re meant to be.

While the tuition may be on the higher end compared to public universities, Baylor works hard to make education accessible through a wide range of scholarships and financial aid. And with its location in the heart of Texas, students enjoy the charm and energy of Waco while also being part of a close-knit, vibrant campus life.

What Sets Baylor University Apart?

Choosing Baylor means joining a community that values faith, academic excellence, and leadership. Here’s what makes Baylor such a standout university:

Strong Academic Foundation Across Fields

Whether you're aiming for business, engineering, law, or healthcare, Baylor has you covered. The Hankamer School of Business consistently ranks among the top in the country, offering well-rounded programs in marketing, management, and entrepreneurship.

Although the Baylor College of Medicine is now an independent entity, it remains closely tied to the university, giving students access to impressive resources in health sciences.

Campus Where Faith Is Respected & Celebrated

Baylor isn’t just a school where you study and move on. It’s a place where your faith is nurtured alongside your academics. Chapel services, campus ministries, and courses that integrate ethical leadership into everyday learning make Baylor unique. Students are challenged not just to think critically, but to live out their beliefs in impactful ways.

Research that Makes a Difference

Innovation and discovery are alive and well at Baylor. From cutting-edge healthcare research to work being done at the Baylor Institute for Studies of Religion and the Center for Astrophysics, students are encouraged to take part in meaningful research alongside expert faculty. It's a hands-on, eye-opening experience that pushes students to dream bigger.

An Active, Welcoming Campus Life

There’s always something happening at Baylor. With over 300 student organizations, Division I athletics, a lively Greek scene, and tons of volunteer opportunities, it’s easy to find your place. Whether you're cheering on the Bears at McLane Stadium or joining a late-night campus event, you’ll never feel like just a number here.

Waco also plays a big role in the Baylor experience. This growing Texas city offers cultural events, food, art, and career opportunities, all within reach.

Baylor University Rankings

Baylor continues to climb the national charts, a reflection of its dedication to both academics and student life.

Current Rankings (2025)

• #79 National Universities (U.S. News & World Report)
• #61 Best Business Schools (Hankamer School of Business)
• Top 100 Best Law Schools
• Top 50 Best Nursing Schools
• Top 20 Best College Football Teams

Baylor’s rising rankings show it’s a place where students thrive — both in and out of the classroom.

Top Baylor University Courses & Programs

Baylor University programs prepare students for leadership roles in their chosen fields. Below are some of the best programs and majors at Baylor University:

Baylor University Admissions

Baylor looks beyond just test scores. They want students who are not only academically driven but also show leadership, character, and a strong sense of purpose.

Acceptance Rate

Baylor’s acceptance rate falls between 35% and 45%, making it competitive, but not out of reach. A strong application really matters here.

What You Need

• GPA: A 3.7+ with a challenging course load (think AP or IB classes)
• Test Scores: SAT/ACT optional, but a 1300+ SAT or 28+ ACT can give your application a boost
• Essays: These should tell your story, highlight your values, and explain why Baylor is the right fit
• Extracurriculars: Leadership, community service, and passions outside the classroom are all valued
• Letters of Recommendations: Insightful letters from teachers or mentors can really help paint a fuller picture of who you are

Deadlines to Remember:

• Early Decision I: November 1 (binding, higher chance of admission)
• Early Action: November 1 (non-binding, priority review)
• Regular Decision: January 15

Tip: Be authentic. Baylor values genuine stories and students who align with its mission.

Baylor University Tuition, Fees & Financial Aid

Let’s be real: college isn’t cheap, and Baylor’s no exception. But the good news? There are lots of ways to make it affordable.

Baylor University Cost Breakdown 2024-2025:

Scholarships and Financial Aid:

• Baylor Scholarship: Based on academic excellence
• President's Gold Scholarship: High merit award
• First-Generation Scholarship: For trailblazing students

With a mix of grants, loans, and work-study, many students find that Baylor is more affordable than it seems at first glance. In addition to Baylor's scholarship choices, students can take advantage of various other scholarships that allow them to study without concern.
Baylor University is committed to making education accessible by offering merit-based, need-based, and donor-funded scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students. These scholarships help reduce tuition costs, with some covering partial tuition and others providing fully funded scholarships based on academic achievement, leadership, or financial need. An incredible opportunity for students looking to ease their financial burden is amberscholar, which provides $12,000 in scholarships for those pursuing higher education at their dream university. Below is an overview of the notable scholarships available at Baylor University.

Baylor University On-Campus Housing Guide

Whether you're just starting college or nearing graduation, Baylor has housing options that suit every stage of student life.

• Traditional Halls: Ideal for first-years; shared spaces that foster connection
• Suite-Style Housing: Semi-private, great for students who want a little more privacy
• Apartment-Style: Perfect for upperclassmen looking for independence and comfort

Living on campus means easy access to dining halls, fitness centers, and campus events, all while staying close to class. You can check out all the housing resources that the university has to offer for the students opting to stay on campus on their campus living portal

Off-Campus Housing Near Baylor University

Finding the right off-campus housing is an essential part of a student's experience at Baylor University. If you’re ready for a little more independence, Waco has some great spots:

1. Union Waco

Just 1.5 miles from campus, Union Waco offers sleek, fully furnished apartments with amenities like a fitness center and outdoor courtyard.

2. U Pointe on Speight

Located just under 1.5 miles away, this place is known for private bedrooms and resort-style perks — think pools, gyms, and 24-hour maintenance.

3. Domain at Waco

At 2.88 miles from Baylor, Domain brings luxury to student housing with a movie theater, basketball courts, and even a Starbucks.

Notable Baylor University Alumni

Baylor has produced some pretty amazing people. Here are just a few names you might recognize:

• Mack Rhoades: University of Houston Director of Athletics
• Vernon Rudolph: Founder of Krispy Kreme
• Andrew Benintendi: MLB player for the Kansas City Royals

The Baylor alumni network is active, engaged, and ready to support students long after graduation.