What's the scoop on Furman admissions?

Hey all, does anyone know how competitive admissions at Furman University are? What are they really looking for in applicants? I'd appreciate insights from anyone familiar with their process.

Furman University, located in Greenville, South Carolina, is a small, liberal arts university known for its strong programs in the arts, humanities, and social sciences. It also offers solid programs in natural sciences, business administration, and health sciences. As of the 2024 application cycle, Furman's acceptance rate stood around 65%, making it moderately selective.

The university operates on a holistic review process, which means they look at your entire application - academic record, extracurriculars, letters of recommendation, and essays - to determine your potential fit. That being said, your academic record is of prime importance. The median high school GPA for admitted students hovers around 3.66, where the majority of applicants rank in the top tenth of their class. Regarding test scores, around half of the applicants submit them. The middle 50% of SAT scores for admitted students ranged from 1240-1440, and for ACT, it was 28-32.

However, keep in mind that Furman appreciates well-rounded students who have displayed a genuine passion and commitment towards extracurricular activities, be it in academics, sports, arts or community service. Furman categorizes extracurriculars into four tiers, with Tier 1 being the highest level of achievement (competing at national/international level) and Tier 4 being the most common (club membership, general volunteer work). While having credentials in Tier 1 or 2 can certainly give you a competitive edge, consistent involvement in Tier 3 or 4 activities can also present you as a dedicated individual.

Your essays are another essential part of your application. They give you a chance to show more about your personality, interests, and motivations. Avoid cliche topics and instead focus on something personal, unique, and insightful that leaves a lasting impression.

Financial need is taken into account at Furman, as it offers both need-based and merit scholarships. Remember to utilize the university's net price calculator to get an estimate of the possible financial aid you could receive.

Keep in mind that this is just a general overview, and Furman's requirements and preferences might change with each admission cycle. I recommend reaching out to the Furman admissions office for the most accurate and updated information. They may also provide additional insights into what they look for in a student.