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Harding University

Searcy, Arkansas · Private (nonprofit)

Ranked #296 US News

FindU Grade

AValue
N/ACampus
A-Academics
C-Admissions
B+Student Life
A-Overall

About

Harding University is located in Searcy, Arkansas. It is a private (nonprofit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 3,323 students.

harding.edu

Cost and aid

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$24,888
Out-of-state tuition$24,888
Room & board$9,940
Avg aid package$15,325
Students receiving aid19%
Pell grant recipients19%

Harding University's tuition is approximately $24,888 per year, but nearly all students receive financial aid, with the average aid package totaling over $15,000. The university offers various scholarships, including academic achievement awards and need-based grants, making it accessible for students from diverse financial backgrounds. Harding aims to provide a valuable education while keeping costs manageable for families.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%1050–1280
4001600
ACT · middle 50%21–28
136

Application info

Acceptance rate100%
Average GPA3.70
Student–faculty ratio16:1
Test optionalNo
Application fee$50

Harding University has a fairly competitive admissions process with an acceptance rate of 45%. The university considers factors such as SAT/ACT scores and GPA. They seek students who align with the university's mission and values, emphasizing academic excellence and spiritual growth.

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Academics

Graduation rate70%
Retention rate87%
Student–faculty ratio16:1
Full-time faculty71%

Harding University offers a Christ-centered education with a focus on integrating faith and learning. The university emphasizes a relational environment with a 16:1 student-faculty ratio and an average class size of 22, allowing for personalized mentorship. Students appreciate the caring professors who teach from a Christian perspective, creating a supportive academic community.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$52,876
Job placement rate97%
Earn more than HS grad73%
Economic mobility75%
Loan default (3 yr)3%
Loan repayment (3 yr)73%

Harding University boasts a strong career placement rate, with 91% of graduates achieving recognized professional outcomes within six months of graduating. Alumni have found success with top employers like Amazon, Apple, Boeing, Google, and NASA. Graduates also attend prestigious graduate schools such as Columbia, Duke, Harvard, and Yale, demonstrating the university's commitment to preparing students for future success.

Student life

Demographics

Medium School
3,323Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 55%Male 45%
80% WhiteRacial diversity
White 80%Black 5%Hispanic 4%Asian 1%Other 9%
Campus housingYes

Harding University fosters a close-knit and welcoming campus culture rooted in Christian values. Social clubs provide a significant part of student life, offering opportunities for friendship and involvement without the presence of traditional Greek life. The university offers a variety of activities, including intramural sports and campus events, creating a vibrant and inclusive social atmosphere.

Student reviews

Professors

Current Student

Harding is a fantastic choice because the professors at Harding are all here because they love teaching students in a christian atmosphere. All the professors are incredibly friendly and helpful no matter what questions you may have they will try their best to help you. Campus is also beautiful! It is also small campus in a small city which in my opinion makes it even better.

Campus and vibes

Current Student

Harding University is my home away from home. After my very first visit here last year, I knew this place was different than every other university I had visited. The people are all amazing, kind, and welcoming. I love all of the opportunities for social clubs, faith formation, and athletic involvement.

Current Student

I'm not quite sure what to say for this box, but Harding is a place where most of the people actually WANT to be. It's not just a place where you say, Oh I suppose this is an okay school. It's a place you want to be to grow in your faith, your friendships, and your education.

Current Student

Harding may not be for everybody, make sure you are ready to follow the rules and make sure that you are okay with following all of them. Harding has strict rules, and you can't get around them.

Current Student

If you are looking at Harding as a possible choice for college, somethings to take into consideration is that it is a Church of Christ school, and it holds fast to Church of Christ beliefs, I am not Church of Christ so it can be frustrating at times for me, but if anything this environment has strengthened my faith and caused me to dig deeper into Gods word. Also Harding is a pretty strict University with a fair amount of rules that have to be followed so make sure you know what you are getting into before you come here.

Current Student

Come with an open mind! People tend to judge private schools by their titles. Harding University is a Christian private school that really focuses on Christ, but it is not overwhelming by any means. Do not come just to be around 'other Christians' because there are people from all walks of life here.

About Harding University

Harding University prioritizes campus safety and security, although specific details on security measures are not prominently featured. The university prohibits alcohol and substance use on campus and enforces policies aligned with its Christian values. Harding aims to create a secure and supportive environment for its students.

Harding University's Honors College cultivates leadership, service, and academic excellence through shared experiences informed by faith. The college welcomes around 100 students each year and offers unique study abroad opportunities. Honors students complete a thesis or capstone project and are encouraged to participate in Honors College events and leadership activities.

Harding University welcomes international students from over 50 nations and territories, offering a supportive environment for their academic and personal growth. The university provides study abroad programs in locations such as Australasia, Peru, England, Greece, Italy, and Zambia, fostering a global perspective among its students. While specific details on international student support services are limited, the university aims to create an inclusive community for all students.

Endowment$212,023,311
Avg faculty salary$93,756

Harding University FAQ

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Harding University admits about 100% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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