Taylor University
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
- Academic calendar
- 4-1-4
- Religious affiliation
- Interdenominational
- President
- D. Michael Lindsay (President)
- Phone
- 8008823456
- Address
- 1846 Main Street, Upland, IN 46989-1001
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
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
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)
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
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $55,517 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | $65,897 | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $56,657 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biomedical Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Physiology, General. | - | ||
| Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | $40,043 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering, General. | - | ||
| Computer Engineering, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| American Government and Politics (United States). | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - | ||
| Sociology and Anthropology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication, General. | - | ||
| Journalism, Other. | - | ||
| Public Relations/Image Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, Other. | - | ||
| Computer Science. | - | ||
| Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bible/Biblical Studies. | - | ||
| Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other. | - | ||
| Pastoral Studies/Counseling. | - | ||
| Youth Ministry. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sustainability Studies. | - | ||
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||
| Professional, Technical, Business, and Scientific Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Public Health Education and Promotion. | - | ||
| Behavioral Aspects of Health. | - | ||
| Art Therapy/Therapist. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | ||
| Applied Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
Students
2,548 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 46:54 · Freshman retention 89.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,401
- First-year undergraduates 574
- Graduate students 45
- Transfers and others 528
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,503)
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.
113 in 2025 · 5.4% in 2016
11 in 2025 · 14.3% in 2016
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
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
Expenses$79.5M
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.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Mid-States Football Association · Crossroads League
Mid-States Football Association: football
Crossroads League: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 53 | 51 |
| Football | 103 | - |
| Soccer | 29 | 35 |
| Cross Country | 23 | 22 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 17 | 17 |
| Lacrosse | 28 | - |
| Softball | - | 25 |
| Volleyball | - | 24 |
| Golf | 11 | 9 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 107 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 51 | 49 |
| Soccer | 29 | 33 |
| Cross Country | 25 | 19 |
| Baseball | 34 | - |
| Basketball | 18 | 16 |
| Lacrosse | 30 | - |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Golf | 9 | 8 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
| NAIA Division I | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 50 | 46 |
| Football | 94 | - |
| Soccer | 29 | 26 |
| Cross Country | 24 | 19 |
| Baseball | 32 | - |
| Basketball | 15 | 15 |
| Lacrosse | 29 | - |
| Softball | - | 24 |
| Golf | 13 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Other Sports | - | - |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Ball State UniversityMuncie · 18.1 mi
U.S. News #227
-
Earlham CollegeRichmond · 53.4 mi
Liberal Arts #83
-
Marian University (IN)Indianapolis · 58.0 mi
U.S. News #276
-
Indiana University-Purdue University-IndianapolisIndianapolis · 59.2 mi
U.S. News #219
-
University of IndianapolisIndianapolis · 61.6 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Purdue University-Main CampusWest Lafayette · 74.6 mi
U.S. News #55
-
Miami University-OxfordOxford · 77.0 mi
U.S. News #133
-
Wabash CollegeCrawfordsville · 79.7 mi
Liberal Arts #44
-
University of DaytonDayton · 85.6 mi
U.S. News #121
Data insights
Here are some notable schools near Taylor University:
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
DePauw University - This university ranks 46th and is recognized for its strong liberal arts curriculum and emphasis on experiential learning.
-
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.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
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).
-
General Nelson A. Miles 1839–1925
Last Commanding General of the US Army
-
Jackie Walorski 1963–2022
U.S. Representative for Indiana's 2nd district
-
Tim Walberg 1951–
U.S. Representative from Michigan since 2011
-
Derek Kolstad 1974–
Screenwriter and creator of the John Wick franchise
-
Stephen L. Johnson 1951–
Former EPA Administrator
-
Harold Ockenga 1905–1985
Evangelical theologian and pastor of Park Street Church
-
Samuel Kaboo Morris 1873–1893
Liberian prince and evangelical missionary
-
Geoff Moore 1961–
Contemporary Christian music singer
-
Ralph W. Gwinn 1884–1962
U.S. Representative from New York
More alumni (2, by field)
Politics and law
-
Dwight Kay 1947–
Former Republican member of the Illinois General Assembly
Arts and media
-
William Vennard 1909–1971
Vocal pedagogist and opera singer
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.