Hillsdale College: 2024 Requirements, Scores & GPAs

This is the go-to guide for getting into Hillsdale College. We suggest you read until the end... Not only will we layout the exact GPA and test scores you should aim for when applying to Hillsdale College, but we’ll also offer creative ways to help your application stand out from the pack. We breakdown Hillsdale College statistics better than any article out there and show you how these have changed over time. Also, make sure to check out Hillsdale College on CampusReel to see what it’s really like here. You can also use the below calculator to help determine your likelihood of acceptance at Hillsdale College

What GPA do you need to get into Hillsdale College?

Hillsdale College’s average GPA is 3.15. Hillsdale College does require GPA. Hillsdale College is currently selective. However, be aware that oftentimes schools in this GPA range are increasing their selectivity in hope of increasing “prestige”. We can’t read the minds of Hillsdale College application readers, but they likely want to increase the average GPA from 3.15 to 3.31 this year - to play it safe, we recommend striving for the 3.31 GPA.

*BEFORE CONTINUING PLEASE NOTE: GPA and “prestige” DO NOT mean a college is right for you. Hillsdale College may seem amazing on paper, but you may hate it... That’s why 700,000 students transfer colleges every year - they end up going to the wrong school. It’s crucial to watch the videos on CampusReel and make sure you can envision yourself on Hillsdale College’s campus. These Hillsdale College admission statistics do not sufficiently tell you what a college or university is like.

What is Hillsdale College’s acceptance rate?

Last year Hillsdale College’s acceptance rate was 0.0. However, check out how the acceptance rate has changed over time.

As you can see, Hillsdale College is getting more and more difficult to get into. If this trend continue it’s likely that Hillsdale College will be even more competitive by the time you apply.

Acceptance rate alone does not indicate your likelihood for getting into Hillsdale College - it’s a very high level understanding of the true competition. Use the acceptance rate as a general guide for curating a list of 10-15 schools that fall into different ranges of competitiveness. Then, use the below data to get a deeper understanding of how your application will compare to the rest of the pool.

Does Hillsdale College Require Test Scores?

Hillsdale College requires that you either take the SAT or ACT. See the table below for how Hillsdale College’s accepted students have performed on both tests. You may be wondering how many test scores should you submit. Generally, don’t freak out about taking the test too often. Industry consensus is that you can submit up to 6 tests as a reasonable limit.

Hillsdale College SAT Requirements

Hillsdale College’s average SAT score is 1315 - this is the sum of the math and reading portions of the SAT (the 1600 scale). Check out the below table for a deeper look into how students performed - it’s also very interesting to look at the average test score over time. The trend over time helps give insight into whether Hillsdale College is getting more or less competitive.

Hillsdale College’s average SAT score is 1315. To be a competitive applicant for Hillsdale College your SAT score should come close to the average. If you’re closer to the 1190, you’re likely going to have a tougher time getting accepted. To consider Hillsdale College a “target” school (one that you are likely to get into) you should aim for a score of 1440.

Hillsdale College ACT Requirements

Hillsdale College’s average ACT score is 74. To be a competitive applicant for Hillsdale College your ACT score should come close to the average. If you’re closer to the 82, you’re likely going to have a tougher time getting accepted. To consider Hillsdale College a “target” school (one that you have a good chance of getting into) you should aim for a score of 67.

How hard is it to get into Hillsdale College?

As you can see from the data above, Hillsdale College is exceptionally difficult to get into. Not only should you be aiming for a 3.15 but also SAT scores around 1315. Getting into Hillsdale College is no easy feat and you will need to set yourself apart with more than just numbers and data. Read on to learn how.

Hillsdale College Requirements

Now you know where you need to be for getting into Hillsdale College from a grade and test score perspective. Let’s quickly outline what else you’ll need to provide for your application to get reviewed, and then we’ll move onto the most important section: differentiating your app.

How to get into Hillsdale College

Follow these steps to maximize your chances of getting into Hillsdale College. Everything you read above will help prepare you for what you need to achieve to have a shot at Hillsdale College, but these steps will take you even further in applying that knowledge and differentiating your application.

Main Academic Excellence that is in line with Hillsdale College admission standards.

1. Score at least a 1315 on the SAT or 74 on the ACT.
2. Maintain a GPA of at least a 3.15.

Join Extracurriculars that Align with Hillsdale College’s Values.

1. Join your school band, a sports team or another group activity. If Hillsdale College values music heavily, for example, then try to participate in an organization related to that topic.
2. Volunteer in your hometown. Hillsdale has tons of ways to be involved beyond just the college. Hillsdale College wants applicants that are also good ambassadors for the school - they want students who will give back to the local community and broader Hillsdale area in general.
3. Spend your summer doing something that speaks to your values, personal growth, leadership qualities and other less quantifiable characteristics. Hillsdale College needs to see past your test scores and grades - they need to know that you will be a valuable and contributing member of their community. You are more than grades and test scores - your experiences should demonstrate that.

Prepare Your Application

1. Write a stellar essay that shows Hillsdale College something they can’t figure out from the other parts of your application. For a detailed guide on writing the best college essay, check this out.
2. Get teacher recs that speak to your character. If you know what you’re majoring in and include that in your Hillsdale College app, try to have at least 1 recommendation from a teacher in that department.
3. Apply Before the Deadline. Too many students wait until the last minute to submit their application, and too much can go wrong during this precious time window. Since many students are applying on the last day, it’s possible that Hillsdale College’s own system crashes. Don’t risk the added stress this can cause - submit your app a few days early.