Liberty University

Liberty University, based in Lynchburg, Virginia, is a private Christian university known for its conservative values and commitment to evangelical Christian education. Founded in 1971 by Jerry Falwell Sr., it has since grown into one of the largest Christian universities in the world, with a substantial online enrollment as well as a large residential campus.

Here are some notable aspects of Liberty University:

• Academics: Liberty offers a range of degree programs across various disciplines, including business, psychology, nursing, and theology. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs.
• Campus and Facilities: The campus in Lynchburg spans over 7,000 acres and includes state-of-the-art facilities, including a sports stadium, student union, and recreational spaces. Liberty also has a popular online division, which supports flexible learning for non-traditional and distance students.
• Spiritual Life: Liberty has a strong Christian foundation, with regular campus-wide worship services, mandatory chapel attendance, and various opportunities for students to engage in spiritual growth.
• Athletics: The Liberty Flames compete in NCAA Division I, with sports teams in football, basketball, track and field, and more. They are part of the Conference USA as of 2023.
• Student Life and Policies: Liberty has a student code of conduct called “The Liberty Way,” which outlines behavioral expectations based on Christian principles, including policies on alcohol, drug use, and relationships.

Liberty University has faced both praise and criticism for its conservative stance, academic offerings, and significant online presence. It’s known for attracting students who seek a college experience aligned with Christian values.

Liberty University’s entry requirements vary depending on the type of program (undergraduate, graduate, online, or residential) and sometimes the specific school or program within the university. Here’s a general outline of the typical requirements:

Undergraduate Admission

1. Application: Complete the online application form. Liberty has a straightforward application process, and there is often no application fee.
2. High School Diploma or Equivalent: Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED.
3. Transcripts: Submission of high school transcripts, with a minimum GPA generally recommended at 2.0 or higher, although some programs may require a higher GPA.
4. Standardized Test Scores (Optional): Liberty has moved to a test-optional policy for many programs, meaning that SAT or ACT scores aren’t required but can be submitted to strengthen the application.
5. Essay and References: An essay or personal statement may be required for certain programs, especially if the GPA is below the minimum standard. Some departments may also request recommendation letters.

Graduate Admission

1. Application: Graduate applicants must also complete an online application.
2. Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must have an accredited bachelor’s degree for most programs.
3. Transcripts: Official college transcripts are required, and many programs require a minimum GPA of around 2.5 to 3.0.
4. Program-Specific Requirements: Some graduate programs require standardized test scores (e.g., GRE or GMAT) and work experience. Certain fields, like counseling or business, may also have additional application components, such as essays, interviews, or recommendations.
5. Personal Statement: Many graduate programs require a personal statement outlining the applicant’s goals and reasons for pursuing a degree at Liberty.

Online Programs

Liberty offers extensive online programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels, and the entry requirements are typically similar to on-campus programs, though some flexibility in admissions requirements is offered. Transcripts and a high school diploma or bachelor’s degree are still required, but some online programs are more flexible regarding GPA and standardized test requirements.

International Students

1. English Proficiency: International students must demonstrate English proficiency, often through TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores, if English is not their first language.
2. Transcripts Evaluation: Transcripts from international institutions may need to be evaluated by a service like WES (World Education Services).
3. Student Visa Requirements: For residential programs, international students must meet F-1 visa requirements and provide proof of finances for studying in the U.S.

Additional Requirements for Specific Programs

Certain competitive programs, like nursing, law, or engineering, may have additional requirements, such as higher GPA thresholds, prerequisite courses, entrance exams, or interviews.

Liberty University offers a range of scholarships to help students cover tuition costs, including need-based, merit-based, and program-specific options. Here’s an overview of the main types of scholarships available:

1. Academic Scholarships

• Liberty Academic Scholarship: Based on GPA and standardized test scores. Awards vary depending on academic achievements, with amounts ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
• Middle America Scholarship: For students whose families earn between $35,000 and $95,000 per year. This scholarship can provide up to $5,000 annually.

2. Need-Based Aid

• Liberty Need Grant: A need-based grant awarded to students who demonstrate financial need. Students must complete the FAFSA to be eligible for this award.
• Pell Grant Match Program: Liberty matches Federal Pell Grant funds for eligible students, effectively doubling the amount students receive from the Pell Grant.

3. Departmental and Program-Specific Scholarships

• Certain programs or departments offer scholarships for students in particular fields of study. Examples include scholarships for music, ministry, education, and programs.
• Champion Award: For incoming students in programs like sports management, physical education, and outdoor adventure leadership.

4. Diversity and Multicultural Scholarships

• David P. Trimmier Memorial Scholarship: For minority students demonstrating financial need and academic achievement.
• Wilma H. Teel Memorial Scholarship: For students who are active in diversity and inclusion efforts.

5. Athletic Scholarships

• Liberty offers athletic scholarships to qualified students participating in NCAA Division I sports. Awards vary based on the sport, skill level, and available funding.

6. Military and Veteran Benefits

• Heroes Fund Scholarship: For veterans and their spouses, awarded based on need.
• Liberty University Online Military Benefits: Active duty military personnel and veterans may qualify for tuition discounts and other financial assistance programs.

7. Online Program Scholarships

• Liberty Advantage Scholarship: For online students who graduated from certain Christian high schools or homeschooling programs associated with Liberty.
• Edge Scholarship: For online undergraduate students transferring from another institution with a minimum GPA.

8. Outside and Private Scholarships

• Liberty also helps students find external scholarships through resources on its financial aid page, with information on private scholarships and tools to search for additional funding sources.

Application Tips:

• Complete the FAFSA early for access to need-based aid and to be considered for certain scholarships.
• Maintain a high GPA for merit-based awards.
• Review Liberty’s scholarship deadlines, as they vary by scholarship type and program.