Grove City College
Acceptance rate
72.3%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$21,700
$33,930 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
2,341
Student-faculty ratio 13:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
75.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 81.0%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Grove City College, located in Grove City, Pennsylvania, is a distinguished Christian liberal arts institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and personal integrity. Founded in 1876, the college emphasizes a values-based education, guided by its mission to prepare students for lives of service and leadership in a rapidly changing world. The college's motto, "For Christ and Liberty," reflects its foundational principles that inspire students to pursue truth and uphold moral character in their academic and professional endeavors.
The campus features a blend of traditional and modern facilities, providing students with a conducive environment for learning and personal growth. Grove City College prides itself on its strong faculty-student relationships, boasting a low student-to-faculty ratio that allows for personalized attention and mentoring. The college offers a wide range of undergraduate programs, with particular strengths in engineering, business, and the liberal arts. Beyond academics, the college fosters a vibrant campus culture, with numerous student organizations, athletic programs, and events that promote community engagement and personal development. Graduates are well-prepared for successful careers, often finding robust employment opportunities in various fields, thanks to the college's strong emphasis on practical experience and internship programs. Overall, Grove City College is a nurturing environment that champions academic rigor while fostering a strong sense of community and moral purpose.
Trends in Tuition, Student Enrollment, and Graduation Rates
The data from Grove City College reveals significant trends in tuition fees, student enrollment, and graduation rates over the years. Tuition costs for in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students have shown a consistent upward trajectory, increasing from $14,880 in 2014 to $20,890 by 2024. This represents a nearly 40% rise in tuition over a decade, reflecting the broader trend of rising college costs across the United States. Such increases may pose challenges for prospective students and their families, prompting discussions on student debt and affordability in higher education.
Student enrollment figures depict a decline in undergraduate enrollment, dropping from 2,506 in 2013 to 2,289 in 2023. This decline, coupled with rising tuition, raises questions about the college’s attractiveness to potential students. It also emphasizes the need for institutions to adopt strategies to enhance their appeal, including academic programs and financial aid opportunities.
Graduation rates, however, present a more positive picture. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students has stabilized, hovering around 79.9% in 2023, with a slightly lower 150% graduation rate at 83.4%. These figures suggest that students at Grove City College are generally able to complete their degrees in a timely manner, which is a critical metric for evaluating the effectiveness of academic programs and student support services.
In conclusion, while rising tuition fees and declining enrollment are concerning trends, the stable graduation rates indicate that the college maintains a commitment to student success. Moving forward, it will be essential for Grove City College to address the financial concerns of prospective students while continuing to support those already enrolled to ensure their educational journeys are both accessible and successful.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Distant town
- Nearest major city
- Pittsburgh, about 50 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), about 45 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Undenominational
- President
- Bradley J. Lingo (President)
- Phone
- 7244582000
- City
- Grove City, Pennsylvania
- Address
- 100 Campus Dr, Grove City, PA 16127-2104
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 75.1%, women 84.6%.
Data insights
Analysis of Grove City College Admission Trends
The admission data for Grove City College reveals significant trends over the years that reflect shifting dynamics in higher education. Notably, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have fluctuated, suggesting varied competition levels and possibly changing applicant pools. For instance, in 2009, the acceptance rate for males was approximately 59.7%, which increased to a peak of around 84.5% in 2015. This increase indicates a growing willingness to accept applicants, potentially in response to external pressures or institutional goals.
Conversely, female acceptance rates also showed a similar trajectory, starting at about 53.2% in 2009 and peaking at 90.9% in 2015. The high acceptance rates during these years might be indicative of the college's strategic efforts to promote gender diversity, aligning with national trends towards increasing female enrollment in higher education.
However, the years following 2015 saw a decrease in enrollment numbers, with a notable rise in denied applicants, particularly in the years 2020 to 2023. For instance, in 2022, the college denied 571 applicants, a clear sign that the institution faced challenges in balancing its enrollment goals with the quality of applicants.
The data also illustrates a growing trend of deferrals, with an increasing number of students opting to delay their admission. This could reflect broader societal influences, such as economic uncertainties or health-related concerns stemming from the pandemic.
Overall, the trends observed in Grove City College's admission data not only reflect internal institutional shifts but also mirror broader patterns in higher education, emphasizing the need for colleges to adapt to changing applicant behaviors and external factors.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 51% submitted SAT, 19% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in SAT Scores and Submissions at Grove City College
The data from Grove City College over the years reveals a notable trend in both the number of SAT submissions and the associated scores. Starting from 2007, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has consistently shown a downward trend, declining from 93% to just 54% by 2023. This significant drop indicates a shift in the admissions landscape, where fewer students are relying on standardized tests for college admissions.
In terms of performance, while the reading and math scores initially showed a strong range, peaking with the 25% threshold for reading at 576 in 2007, these figures have fluctuated over the years. In 2023, the 25% SAT reading score is reported at 580, with the 75% threshold remaining relatively stable around 690. However, the overall performance trend appears to be declining, particularly with a decrease in the number of students achieving higher scores.
The decreasing number of submissions combined with fluctuating scores may reflect broader changes in the educational environment, including increasing criticism of standardized testing and the growing movement towards a more holistic admissions process. The pandemic has also influenced students' testing behaviors, as many colleges have become test-optional, further diminishing the emphasis on SAT scores.
This evolving landscape challenges institutions to adapt their admissions strategies while ensuring they continue to attract capable students. The ongoing debate about the effectiveness and fairness of standardized tests is likely to shape future admissions policies, not just at Grove City College, but across higher education institutions nationwide.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 7 in 10
2,095 applicants in 2025, 72.3% admitted
1,515 admitted 580 not admitted Yield 37.3%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's8 (0% international)
- Religion/Religious Studies · Master's4 (0% international)
- Accounting · Master's1 (0% international)
- Business Statistics · Master's1 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Trends at Grove City College
The data from Grove City College for 2023 reveals some intriguing patterns in graduation numbers across various disciplines. Notably, engineering and computer science programs lead with the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded, with 39 and 30 graduates respectively. This could reflect the increasing demand for professionals in these fields, driven by technological advancements and the need for innovative infrastructure.
Interestingly, health and medical preparatory programs also show a robust graduation rate with 27 students completing their degrees. This aligns with national trends where healthcare careers remain a priority, especially post-pandemic, as society continues to emphasize health and wellness.
In the realm of social sciences, psychology and sociology programs produced 17 and 15 graduates respectively. This suggests a growing interest in understanding human behavior, which is increasingly relevant in today's diverse and complex social landscape. Similarly, business-related programs have a significant presence in the data, indicating the perpetual appeal of business education amidst a dynamic job market.
A noteworthy observation is the absence of international students graduating in these programs, which may point towards a need for enhanced recruitment strategies or support for international scholars at the college.
Lastly, while some fields such as education show numbers across various specializations, the overall lower graduation rates in this area may reflect challenges within the profession, such as job market saturation or changing societal perceptions of teaching careers. This data provides valuable insights into the current educational landscape and the evolving priorities of students at Grove City College.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering. | - | ||
| Engineering Science. | - | ||
| Mechanical Engineering. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Molecular Biology. | - | ||
| Conservation Biology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Information Science/Studies. | - | ||
| Computer Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health/Medical Preparatory Programs, Other. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| General Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - | ||
| Religion/Religious Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Design and Visual Communications, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - | ||
| Music Performance, General. | - | ||
| Music Management. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theological and Ministerial Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | ||
| Statistics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| French Language and Literature. | - | ||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
Students
2,383 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 52:48 · Freshman retention 88.3%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,617
- First-year undergraduates 565
- Graduate students 42
- Transfers and others 159
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,341)
Age distribution
Bachelor's
Graduate students
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Grove City College in 2023
In 2023, Grove City College presents a diverse student body across various classifications. The undergraduate freshman category represents a significant portion of the total enrollment, with 609 students, where males comprise approximately 53.9% and females 46.1%. This gender distribution indicates a slightly higher male population, which is a trend seen in many colleges nationwide.
The undergraduate junior population is notably larger, with 1,508 students, showing a more balanced gender ratio of 50.9% male to 49.1% female. This balance suggests that the institution is fostering an inclusive environment, appealing to a broad demographic. However, the undergraduate transfer student group is quite small, with only 43 enrolled, and a more pronounced male dominance at 58.1%. This could reflect broader trends in transfer admissions, where males are more likely to transition from other institutions.
Graduate studies at Grove City College show a limited enrollment of 27 students, with a significant male majority of 66.7%. This disparity may point to fields of study that attract more men at the graduate level, which is consistent with national statistics in STEM and business disciplines.
The racial composition within these groups also highlights a predominantly white demographic. The college's commitment to diversity can be further examined in future enrollment strategies to attract a wider range of ethnic backgrounds, particularly given the increasing emphasis on diversity in higher education. Overall, Grove City College's demographic data reflects both traditional patterns and opportunities for growth in diversity and gender balance in specific areas of study.
Analysis of Student Age Composition at Grove City College
The age composition of students at Grove City College in 2023 reveals significant trends in both undergraduate and graduate demographics. The largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, encompassing nearly 50% of the total student body, with 534 male undergraduates and 544 female undergraduates. This indicates a strong influx of traditional-age students, which is consistent with national trends in higher education where colleges and universities often attract younger individuals straight out of high school.
As students progress through their college years, the numbers begin to decline in the 20-21 age group, although it still maintains a substantial presence, particularly among males. The data shows a notable drop in participation from ages 22 to 24, where only about 5% of the total student population is represented. This decline may suggest challenges faced by students transitioning from undergraduate to graduate studies, including financial constraints or the choice to enter the workforce instead of continuing education.
Interestingly, the older age groups, particularly those aged 25 and above, account for a very small fraction of the overall student population. This trend aligns with broader societal observations where older individuals often pursue education for career advancement or personal enrichment rather than as a primary focus.
Overall, the data indicates a youthful and predominantly traditional college demographic, reflecting the ongoing trends in American higher education. As institutions aim to diversify their student populations, understanding these age dynamics will be crucial for developing targeted recruitment and retention strategies.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
24 in 2025 · 1.0% in 2016
3 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2022
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Grove City College
The data provided illustrates the trends in international student enrollment at Grove City College from 2004 to 2023. It is evident that the proportion of international undergraduates has varied significantly over the years. For instance, the percentage of international students in the undergraduate population peaked at 1.10% in 2021, reflecting a period of increased global mobility and perhaps a strategic effort by the college to attract a more diverse student body.
However, the data also reveals fluctuations, particularly a notable decline in international students during the late 2000s and early 2010s, with a low of 0.36% in 2010. Such decreases could be attributed to various factors, including economic conditions and changing immigration policies in the U.S., which may have discouraged potential international applicants.
The recent trend appears to be more favorable, with the percentage stabilizing around 0.92% in 2023, suggesting a recovery and possibly a more welcoming environment for international students. The total number of undergraduates also shows a gradual increase, which may further enhance the college's appeal to prospective international students.
The absence of data regarding graduate student enrollment hinders a comprehensive analysis of the overall international presence at the college. Nonetheless, the figures hint at an evolving landscape for international education at Grove City College, highlighting the importance of adaptability in recruitment strategies to navigate the complexities of global educational trends.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$33,930
- Undergraduate tuition
- $21,700
- Room and board
- $12,230
- Graduate tuition
- $8,550
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 39%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$194M
Expenses$92.0M
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Presidents' Athletic Conference
Presidents' Athletic Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
No athlete data available for 2025.
No athlete data available for 2024.
No athlete data available for 2023.
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Allegheny CollegeMeadville · 34.2 mi
Liberal Arts #85
-
Robert Morris UniversityMoon Township · 44.4 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Chatham UniversityPittsburgh · 49.5 mi
U.S. News #236
-
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh CampusPittsburgh · 49.6 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Carnegie Mellon UniversityPittsburgh · 49.7 mi
U.S. News #14
-
Duquesne UniversityPittsburgh · 50.0 mi
U.S. News #156
-
Kent State University at KentKent · 65.6 mi
U.S. News #236
-
Gannon UniversityErie · 67.2 mi
U.S. News #219
-
Washington and Jefferson CollegeWashington · 68.6 mi
Liberal Arts #91
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions near Grove City College:
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Carnegie Mellon University - Ranked 24th in the 2024 US News rankings, this prestigious research university is renowned for its programs in computer science, engineering, and the arts.
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University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus - With a rank of 67, this comprehensive university offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, and is known for its strong research output.
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Duquesne University - Ranked 151st, Duquesne is a private Catholic university that emphasizes liberal arts education and offers a variety of professional programs.
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Ohio University-Main Campus - This university, ranked 178th, provides a vibrant campus life and a wide selection of academic programs.
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Allegheny College - A liberal arts college ranked 75th, Allegheny is known for its strong focus on undergraduate education and unique interdisciplinary programs.
These institutions provide a range of educational opportunities and are well-respected in their respective fields.
Data insights
Campus Safety at Grove City College: A Remarkable Record
The data from Grove City College spanning a decade reveals an exceptional record in campus safety, with zero reported incidents across various categories of crime. This consistent absence of criminal activity, including serious offenses such as gun-related arrests, drug offenses, and alcohol violations, indicates a strong commitment to maintaining a secure and supportive environment for its students.
The lack of incidents not only reflects the effectiveness of the college’s safety protocols but also highlights the positive community culture fostered within the campus. Such an environment is crucial for students, as it allows them to focus on their academic pursuits without the distraction or fear of crime. Moreover, the absence of violence and serious offenses contributes to an overall sense of well-being and belonging among the student body.
While many institutions face challenges related to crime and safety, Grove City College serves as a model for how proactive measures and community engagement can lead to a safe academic environment. This situation is particularly relevant in today’s context, where higher education institutions are increasingly scrutinized for their safety records.
Ultimately, the sustained success of Grove City College in ensuring zero crime incidents is commendable and sets a high standard for other colleges and universities to aspire to. For more information on how crime rates are calculated, you can visit: Forward Pathway.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Grove City College include Peter Boettke (Austrian school economist at George Mason University), Lawrence Reed (Austrian school economist, former FEE president) and Gail Z. Martin (Epic and urban fantasy writer).
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Peter Boettke 1960–
Austrian school economist at George Mason University
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Lawrence Reed 1953–
Austrian school economist, former FEE president
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Gail Z. Martin 1962–
Epic and urban fantasy writer
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Butch Gibson 1904–1960
American professional football player
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Kimberly Hahn 1957–
Catholic apologist, author and Steubenville city councilor
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Don Batchelor 1895–1970
NFL player, 1922 champion with the Canton Bulldogs
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John Haden Wilson 1867–1946
Democratic U.S. Representative from Pennsylvania
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Mark Mustio 1957–
Former Pennsylvania state representative
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David M. Bailey 1966–2010
Singer-songwriter playing acoustic folk
More alumni (5, by field)
Politics and law
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David Suetterlein 1985–
Republican member of the Senate of Virginia
Science and academia
-
Harold W. Dodds 1889–1980
15th president of Princeton University
Arts and media
-
Gary Blackwood 1945–
Author of The Shakespeare Stealer
Sports
-
Ben Jones 1899–1929
Early NFL player and three-time league champion
-
Spike Shannon 1875–1940
Professional baseball outfielder and umpire
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.