Brigham Young University

Provo, UT US News #115

67.0%

Acceptance Rate

1340

Avg SAT

Avg ACT

3.88

Avg GPA

Brigham Young University (BYU) stands as one of the largest private universities in the United States, owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Founded in 1875 by Brigham Young, the university has grown from a small academy into a comprehensive research institution serving over 30,000 students annually. BYU's mission centers on spiritually strengthening, intellectually enlarging, and character building education within a unique environment where secular learning and spiritual development intertwine seamlessly. The university maintains an exceptional reputation for academic excellence while upholding distinctive religious values that shape every aspect of campus life. BYU consistently ranks among the top national universities, recognized particularly for its accounting, business, and law programs. The institution's commitment to providing high-quality education at remarkably affordable tuition rates, subsidized by church tithing funds, makes it exceptionally accessible to students worldwide. BYU's Honor Code, requiring students to maintain standards of personal behavior including abstinence from alcohol, coffee, and tea, creates a distinctive campus culture unlike any other major university. This code extends to dress and grooming standards, academic integrity, and personal conduct. The university emphasizes the integration of faith and reason, encouraging students to see their educational pursuits as preparation for service to families, communities, and the world. BYU alumni have achieved notable success across various fields, from business leaders and politicians to scientists and artists, carrying the university's values into their professional and personal lives.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate: 67.0%
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Avg GPA: 3.88

Campus & Students

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Outcomes & Cost

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Student Life & Environment

Student life at Brigham Young University unfolds within a distinctive culture shaped by shared religious faith and the Honor Code that defines community expectations. The overwhelming majority of students are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, creating a remarkably cohesive campus culture where religious services, family home evening gatherings, and service projects complement academic pursuits. The Honor Code requires students to maintain standards including academic integrity, dress guidelines, abstinence from alcohol and tobacco, and observance of religious principles, creating an environment that differs markedly from typical American universities. Students generally embrace these expectations, finding that the structured environment enables focus on academic and personal development. The social scene revolves around dating, intramural sports, outdoor recreation, and university-sponsored events rather than the party culture prevalent elsewhere. Greek life does not exist, but numerous clubs and organizations provide social and interest-based communities. BYU athletics compete in Division I as members of the Big 12 Conference, with football and basketball games generating tremendous excitement. The campus recreation program offers extensive outdoor adventure opportunities including skiing, hiking, and rock climbing in the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. Many students marry during their undergraduate years, with family student housing accommodating married couples. The Student Life organization provides programming, resources, and support services tailored to BYU's distinctive student population.

Location & Surroundings

Provo, Utah, provides BYU students with a wholesome college town environment at the base of the spectacular Wasatch Mountain Range, offering abundant outdoor recreation within a community that shares and supports the university's values. The city of approximately 115,000 residents exists largely in symbiosis with the university, with most businesses and community organizations reflecting Latter-day Saint culture. Downtown Provo offers restaurants, shops, and entertainment options within easy reach of campus, while the surrounding area provides small-town safety and affordability rare for a major university setting. The Wasatch Mountains rise dramatically just east of campus, providing world-class skiing at resorts including Sundance, Brighton, and Park City within 30 to 60 minutes. Utah Lake lies to the west, offering water recreation during warm months. The combination of four distinct seasons, mountain access, and relatively affordable living creates an environment particularly suited to outdoor enthusiasts and families. Salt Lake City lies 45 miles north, providing major metropolitan amenities including an international airport, professional sports, cultural attractions, and the headquarters of the LDS Church. The Provo-Orem metropolitan area has emerged as a significant technology hub, with companies including Adobe, Qualtrics, and numerous startups establishing operations that create internship and career opportunities for students. The predominantly Latter-day Saint population means that students can easily find faith communities, support networks, and social environments aligned with their beliefs.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Brigham Young University offers remarkable value, with tuition rates substantially subsidized by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints resulting in costs dramatically lower than peer institutions. LDS students pay approximately $6,500 annually in tuition and fees, while non-LDS students pay approximately $13,000, still well below typical private university costs. Total cost of attendance including housing, meals, books, and personal expenses remains among the lowest for any major private university, typically ranging from $20,000 to $25,000 annually. The Church subsidizes approximately 70% of educational costs through its tithing revenues, viewing education as an investment in members who will serve church and community throughout their lives. Financial aid is available for students with demonstrated need, though the already-low tuition reduces need for most families. Many students work part-time on campus or in the local community. Career outcomes for BYU graduates are exceptional, reflecting both strong academic preparation and the university's extensive alumni network. Accounting graduates are recruited by every major firm and achieve among the highest CPA exam pass rates nationally. Business and law graduates enter prestigious positions with major corporations and firms. Engineering and technology graduates join leading companies throughout the West. The Career Services office provides comprehensive support, with on-campus recruiting attracting employers who specifically value BYU graduates' work ethic and integrity. Graduate and professional school placement is strong, with BYU alumni well-represented at top programs nationwide.