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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Taylor University

Upland, Indiana · www.taylor.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

73.5%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$40,490

$52,519 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

2,503

Student-faculty ratio 14:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

70.8%

4-year; 6-year rate 78.0%

Peer median 45.1%

“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Taylor University, located in Upland, Indiana, is a private Christian liberal arts university known for its commitment to academic excellence and spiritual development. Established in 1846, Taylor is recognized for its strong emphasis on integrating faith with learning, and its mission statement highlights the importance of preparing students for lives of leadership and service. The university's motto, "We are a community of learning, living, and leading," reflects its dedication to fostering a supportive environment that encourages personal and academic growth.

Academically, Taylor University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particularly strong programs in education, business, and the arts. The university's small class sizes allow for personalized attention from faculty, many of whom hold advanced degrees and are dedicated to mentoring students both academically and spiritually. In addition to its rigorous academic offerings, Taylor boasts a vibrant campus life, featuring a variety of student organizations, athletic teams, and cultural events. With a picturesque campus that promotes a sense of community, students engage in various extracurricular activities, including music, drama, and outdoor adventures. The university's commitment to fostering a well-rounded college experience is evident in its focus on student life, promoting both academic achievement and spiritual growth.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Taylor University

Taylor University, as a private institution, has exhibited notable trends in several key metrics over the years. One significant observation is the continuous increase in tuition fees. For instance, undergraduate tuition rose from approximately $28,753 in 2014 to $39,104 in 2024, which marks an increase of nearly 36% over a decade. This tuition hike reflects broader trends in higher education where costs have consistently outpaced inflation, raising concerns about affordability and accessibility for prospective students.

In terms of student demographics, the number of undergraduate students has shown fluctuations, peaking at 2,239 in 2013 but declining to 1,944 by 2022. This decline may indicate a challenging recruitment environment or shifts in student preferences, a trend seen across many private universities as they face increasing competition from public institutions and alternative education models.

Graduation rates are another critical metric worth discussing. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates rose from about 70.3% in 2013 to 71.8% in 2023. Although this might seem modest, it indicates a commitment to supporting student success despite the challenges presented by rising costs and changing demographics. Higher graduation rates often correlate with a university's reputation and can influence future enrollment numbers.

Lastly, the retention rate has shown a positive trend, increasing from approximately 87.6% in 2013 to 91.4% in 2023. This improvement suggests that students are finding value in their educational experience at Taylor University, which may help counterbalance the declining enrollment figures. Retention is a crucial indicator of student satisfaction and institutional effectiveness, and it can play a vital role in maintaining the university's overall stability in an evolving educational landscape.

In summary, Taylor University faces the dual challenges of rising tuition costs and fluctuating enrollment while maintaining a focus on graduation and retention rates. Addressing these issues will be essential for sustaining its mission and ensuring long-term success.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Rural, distant
Nearest major city
Indianapolis, about 60 mi
Nearest international airport
Indianapolis International Airport (IND), about 70 mi
Upland, Indiana
Academic calendar
4-1-4
Religious affiliation
Interdenominational
President
D. Michael Lindsay (President)
Phone
8008823456
City
Upland, Indiana
Address
1846 Main Street, Upland, IN 46989-1001

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
72.4%
Women
74.5%

In 2020: men 67.5%, women 68.6%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Taylor University

The admission data for Taylor University reveals significant trends over the years that can be analyzed for insights into the university's evolving admission landscape. From 2009 to 2023, the admission rates for male and female applicants show a fluctuating pattern, with male admission rates starting at approximately 81.6% and subsequently experiencing a decline, reaching a low of 67.5% in 2021 before slightly recovering to about 73.9% in 2023. In contrast, female admission rates have also shown volatility, peaking at around 89.1% in 2014 and then declining to a low of 68.6% in 2021, with a slight recovery following that.
The number of enrolled students has varied, with a noticeable peak in 2016 when 521 students were enrolled. However, the most concerning trend is the dramatic increase in the number of denied applicants, especially around 2020, which coincides with the global COVID-19 pandemic that affected many universities' admissions processes. The high denial rates during this period suggest a tightening of admission criteria or a potential shift in university strategy in response to external circumstances.
The data also indicates that despite the challenges, the university has maintained a steady stream of applicants, as seen in the number of deferred admissions. This trend may suggest that students are still interested in Taylor University, but the competitive nature of admissions has led to higher denial rates. Overall, these trends reflect the changing dynamics of university admissions in contemporary society, influenced by various factors including economic conditions and global events.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 63% submitted SAT, 28% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1070–1330Peer median 1220
ACT composite24–31
SAT Reading
540–670
600700800
SAT Math
530–660
600700800
ACT composite
24–31
253036

Data insights

Analysis of Taylor University's Admission Scores Over the Years

The data from Taylor University showcases a significant trend in standardized test scores and the percentage of applicants submitting these scores from 2007 to 2023. Notably, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has fluctuated over the years, reaching a peak of 80% in 2020, 2021, and 2022, indicating a strong reliance on these metrics for admissions during this period. This trend aligns with broader patterns in higher education, where institutions increasingly emphasize standardized testing as a critical component of their evaluation processes.

In terms of scores, there has been a gradual improvement in the SAT Reading and Mathematics scores over the years. The 25th percentile scores have shown a slight upward trend, moving from a low of 470 in 2017 to 550 in 2023 for SAT Reading. Similarly, the 75th percentile scores have also increased, suggesting that the overall academic caliber of admitted students has risen.

The correlation between the number of applicants and the quality of those applicants is evident, as a higher number of submissions typically corresponds with higher scores. For instance, the number of SAT submissions peaked at 363 in 2019, coinciding with some of the highest score ranges.

However, it is essential to note that these trends may be influenced by the shifting educational landscape, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on standardized testing policies. Many universities adopted test-optional policies, which may explain the high submission rates in years immediately preceding 2020. As universities continue to navigate these changes, it will be intriguing to observe how Taylor University adapts its admissions strategies moving forward, particularly in light of ongoing discussions about the efficacy and fairness of standardized testing in higher education admissions.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 7 in 10

2,425 applicants in 2025, 73.5% admitted

1,783 admitted 642 not admitted Yield 32.3%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Bachelor's36516 international (4.4%)
Master's91 international (11.1%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Psychology, General
43
Elementary Education and Teaching
28
Business Administration and Management, General
19
Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology
19
Marketing/Marketing Management, General
18
Engineering, General
18
Cinematography and Film/Video Production
17
Political Science and Government, General
13
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
12
Computer Science
12

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other · Master's5 (0% international)
  • Higher Education/Higher Education Administration · Master's4 (25% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Taylor University 2023

The graduation data from Taylor University for 2023 highlights several noteworthy trends across various fields of study. Notably, in the realm of undergraduate degrees, Elementary Education stands out with 39 graduates, indicating a strong interest and commitment to this essential field, which aligns with the growing demand for qualified educators in the U.S. This emphasis on education reflects a broader societal trend where education remains a pivotal focus, especially in light of recent discussions about educational reform.

Another interesting observation is seen in the Business Administration sector, which produced 26 graduates, including 2 international students. This aligns with the increasing globalization of business education, where students from diverse backgrounds contribute to a richer learning environment. The presence of international students can be indicative of Taylor University's reputation and the quality of its programs, which are appealing to a global audience.

Additionally, the data reveals a complete absence of graduates in several disciplines, such as Spanish Language and Literature and Applied Mathematics. This lack of graduates may suggest a need for reevaluation of these programs to attract students or an indication of shifting student interests towards more career-oriented fields.

Overall, the graduation statistics from Taylor University not only reflect the institution's academic strengths but also mirror broader educational trends, including the importance of adaptability in course offerings to meet evolving student and market demands. As institutions continue to navigate the post-pandemic educational landscape, these insights will be critical for strategic planning and program development.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Businesshas 50 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$55,517
Accounting.-
Finance, General.$65,897
Marketing/Marketing Management, General.$56,657
Educationhas 49 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Education, General.-
Higher Education/Higher Education Administration.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.$41,197
Art Teacher Education.$45,898
English/Language Arts Teacher Education.$45,898
Mathematics Teacher Education.$45,898
Social Studies Teacher Education.$45,898
Spanish Language Teacher Education.$45,898
Biologyhas 48 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Biomedical Sciences, General.-
Biochemistry.-
Physiology, General.-
Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology.-
Psychology has 43 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$40,043
Visual and Performing artshas 36 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Graphic Design.-
Illustration.-
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.-
Musical Theatre.-
Cinematography and Film/Video Production.$37,367
Photography.$37,367
Fine/Studio Arts, General.-
Music, General.-
Music Theory and Composition.-
Engineeringhas 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Engineering, General.-
Computer Engineering, General.-
Social sciencehas 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
International Relations and Affairs.-
Political Science and Government, General.-
American Government and Politics (United States).-
Sociology, General.-
Sociology and Anthropology.-
Communication has 19 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Communication, General.-
Journalism, Other.-
Public Relations/Image Management.-
Computer and information sciencehas 18 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Computer and Information Sciences, Other.-
Computer Science.-
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.-
Theology has 17 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Bible/Biblical Studies.-
Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other.-
Pastoral Studies/Counseling.-
Youth Ministry.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 9 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Sustainability Studies.-
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Natural resources has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Environmental Science.-
English has 6 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-
Professional, Technical, Business, and Scientific Writing.-
Physical scienceshas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Chemistry, General.-
Physics, General.-
Health professionshas 5 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.-
Public Health Education and Promotion.-
Behavioral Aspects of Health.-
Art Therapy/Therapist.-
History has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
History, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
Applied Mathematics, General.-
Philosophy has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Philosophy.-
Foreign languages has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Spanish Language and Literature.-
Public administrationhas 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryUnderMaster
Social Work.-

Students

2,548 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 89.3%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,503)

White
2,011 · 80.3%
International
113 · 4.5%
Hispanic
105 · 4.2%
Black
77 · 3.1%
Two or more races
77 · 3.1%
Asian
70 · 2.8%
Unknown
45 · 1.8%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Taylor University in 2023

In 2023, Taylor University displayed a diverse student body with a notable representation of both undergraduate and graduate students. The total number of undergraduate freshmen was 519, with a gender ratio showing 46.8% male and 53.2% female students. This reflects a slight female majority, which is consistent with trends observed in many institutions where female enrollment has been steadily increasing.

For undergraduate juniors, the enrollment was significantly higher at 1,210 students, again with a majority of female students at 54.9%. This indicates a strong retention rate, as these numbers suggest that a majority of freshmen continue their education at Taylor University. The undergraduate transfer students were fewer in number, totaling 38, with a male majority of 60.5%. This demographic may suggest that transfer students are predominantly male, potentially reflecting broader transfer trends in higher education.

The graduate student population was relatively small, with only 33 students, showing a near-equal gender distribution. This low number may indicate that graduate programs at Taylor University are still developing or that students are opting for larger institutions for advanced degrees.

Considering the racial demographics, the university's commitment to diversity is evident, especially among the white and international student populations. Although exact numbers for the racial breakdown of undergraduate juniors were not provided, the breakdown for freshmen indicates a strong presence of white students, followed by a range of other ethnicities. The overall gender ratios and diversity patterns at Taylor University seem to align with national educational trends, which increasingly emphasize inclusivity and representation in higher education.

Analysis of Age Distribution at Taylor University in 2023

The age composition of students at Taylor University in 2023 presents a clear depiction of the demographics within the institution. The largest cohort comprises students aged 18-21, which is not surprising given that these are typically the primary ages for undergraduate studies. Specifically, there are 295 male undergraduates and 401 female undergraduates in the 18-19 category, along with 387 male undergraduates and 472 female undergraduates in the 20-21 category. This indicates a robust participation of young adults in the university, highlighting its appeal to traditional college-age students.

Interestingly, the number of graduate students remains significantly lower, particularly for males, with only 14 males aged 22-24 and no males in younger age categories. This trend may suggest that graduate programs at Taylor University attract fewer younger individuals, possibly reflecting the nature of graduate studies which often require prior professional experience or a completed undergraduate degree.

As students age, the population sharply declines, particularly in the 25-29 age range, where only 7 female undergraduates and 5 male undergraduates are present. This decline continues for older age groups, suggesting that the university predominantly serves a younger demographic.

In conclusion, the data indicates a strong inclination among traditional-age students toward Taylor University, while older and graduate students are less represented. This trend may influence the university's strategic planning in terms of resources, programs, and support services tailored to diverse student needs. As institutions adapt to the changing educational landscape, understanding these demographics is crucial for fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates4.5%

113 in 2025 · 5.4% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 5.4%2017: 6.1%2018: 5.1%2019: 5.0%2020: 4.7%2021: 2.5%2022: 4.1%2023: 4.5%2024: 4.1%2025: 4.5%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students24.4%

11 in 2025 · 14.3% in 2016

0% 15% 30% 2016: 14.3%2017: 12.8%2018: 5.7%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 5.3%2023: 15.2%2024: 23.1%2025: 24.4%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Taylor University

The data on international students at Taylor University reveals interesting trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate international students has seen a noticeable increase, particularly after a significant jump in 2010 when the total undergraduate enrollment exploded to 2,436 students, bringing in 70 international students, which represented 2.87% of the total. This expansion might reflect the university's efforts to enhance its global outreach and recruitment strategies.

However, the percentage of international students in the undergraduate population fluctuated over the years, peaking at 6.10% in 2017, before declining to 2.46% in 2021, likely influenced by the global pandemic and its impact on international travel and education. The recent years show a modest recovery with 4.48% of undergraduate students being international in 2023, indicating a gradual rebound in international enrollments.

On the graduate level, the numbers seem less stable, with a notable spike in the percentage of international students in 2016 (14.29%), suggesting that Taylor University may have implemented targeted programs or partnerships that attracted more graduate students from abroad. Yet, the overall numbers for graduate students have remained relatively low, with only 5 international students reported in 2023, which constitutes 15.15% of the graduate population.

This mix of rising and falling percentages underscores the dynamic nature of international student enrollment and highlights the broader challenges faced by educational institutions in maintaining diversity amid global uncertainties. As universities adapt to these changing circumstances, continuous assessment and strategic planning will be vital in fostering a vibrant international student community.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$52,519

Undergraduate tuition
$40,490
Room and board
$12,029
Graduate tuition
$12,125
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 34% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 42%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$157M

Gifts and private grants
$80.4M51.3%
Tuition and fees
$33.1M21.1%
Investment return
$20.4M13.0%
Auxiliary enterprises
$18.8M12.0%
Government grants and contracts
$554K0.4%
Other
$3.4M2.2%

Expenses$79.5M

Instruction
$25.2M31.7%
Student services
$15.4M19.4%
Auxiliary enterprises
$13.2M16.6%
Institutional support
$12.8M16.2%
Academic support
$6.7M8.5%
Public service
$842K1.1%
Research
$362K0.5%
Other
$5.0M6.2%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$69,661peers $65,931
Professor
$77,623peers $77,501
Associate professor
$69,126peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$64,049peers $61,725
Instructor
$56,141peers $53,914

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Mid-States Football Association · Crossroads League

Mid-States Football Association: football

Crossroads League: basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NAIA Division I MENWOMEN
Track and Field (Outdoor)5351
Football103-
Soccer2935
Cross Country2322
Baseball40-
Basketball1717
Lacrosse28-
Softball-25
Volleyball-24
Golf119
Other Sports--
2024
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Football107-
Track and Field (Outdoor)5149
Soccer2933
Cross Country2519
Baseball34-
Basketball1816
Lacrosse30-
Softball-21
Volleyball-19
Golf98
Other Sports--
2023
NAIA Division IMENWOMEN
Track and Field (Outdoor)5046
Football94-
Soccer2926
Cross Country2419
Baseball32-
Basketball1515
Lacrosse29-
Softball-24
Golf138
Volleyball-19
Other Sports--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools near Taylor University:

  1. University of Notre Dame - Ranked 20th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious institution is known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. Purdue University-Main Campus - With a rank of 43, Purdue is renowned for its engineering, technology, and business programs, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate studies.

  3. Earlham College - Ranked 100, Earlham is a private liberal arts college known for its commitment to social justice and community service, providing a personalized educational experience.

  4. DePauw University - This university ranks 46th and is recognized for its strong liberal arts curriculum and emphasis on experiential learning.

  5. University of Dayton - With a rank of 133, the University of Dayton offers a Catholic education with a focus on service and community engagement.

These institutions represent a mix of comprehensive universities and liberal arts colleges, each contributing uniquely to the educational landscape in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
37
Drug referrals
10
Burglary
6
Fondling
3
Weapons referrals
2
Rape
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Data at Taylor University

The crime statistics for Taylor University reveal notable fluctuations over the years, indicating varying levels of safety on campus. In 2013, the crime rate was relatively low, with only 0.42 incidents per 1,000 students. However, a significant increase was observed in 2017, when the rate jumped to 4.52. This escalation may raise concerns among students and parents regarding campus safety.

The subsequent years saw some fluctuation, with a peak in 2021 at 5.21 incidents per 1,000 students, coinciding with national trends of rising crime rates in various communities. This spike could be reflective of broader societal issues, as many universities experienced similar challenges during this period, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting social unrest.

Interestingly, the types of incidents reported also vary. The data suggests that gun-related arrests, domestic violence, and drug-related offenses are among the significant concerns. The university's response to these incidents will be essential in mitigating risks and ensuring a safe environment for its students.

Overall, while the crime rates at Taylor University are not alarmingly high compared to national averages, the trends indicate a need for ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to enhance campus safety. Institutions must continually adapt their safety protocols and community outreach efforts to address the changing dynamics of crime and ensure a secure environment for their students. More information on calculating crime rates can be found at Forward Pathway.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Taylor University include General Nelson A. Miles (Last Commanding General of the US Army), Jackie Walorski (U.S. Representative for Indiana's 2nd district) and Tim Walberg (U.S. Representative from Michigan since 2011).

More alumni (2, by field)

Politics and law

  • Dwight Kay 1947–

    Former Republican member of the Illinois General Assembly

Arts and media

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.