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Private University

Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University is a private Christian institution located in Phoenix, Arizona, dedicated to empowering students through a purpose-driven education.

60.4%ACCEPTANCE
$22,239AVG NET PRICE
43%GRAD RATE
107.6KSTUDENTS
University data profileIPEDS 2023
Grand Canyon University campus
Phoenix, AZcity 300 acres

THE SIGNATURE

Grand Canyon University Report Card

Explore university facts, programs, and campus life at a glance.

Founded in 1949, Grand Canyon University (GCU) is a vibrant private Christian university situated in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona. With a total student body of over 107,000, GCU provides a layered educational experience that merges academic rigor with a strong sense of community. Students are supported by a dedicated faculty and staff who focus on holistic development, preparing graduates to lead with integrity in various fields.

Campus life at GCU is dynamic, characterized by a welcoming atmosphere where diversity is celebrated. Students have access to both traditional on-campus programs and flexible online studies, ensuring that education is tailored to meet individual needs. The rich surroundings of Phoenix offer ample opportunities for entertainment, culture, and exploration, making it an ideal location for student life and engagement outside of the classroom.

AT A GLANCE
TypePrivateFour or more years
Founded1949
Settingcity 300 acres
Calendarsemester

GETTING IN

Admissions

Grand Canyon University maintains an acceptance rate of 60.4%, welcoming a diverse array of applicants. Students interested in joining GCU should refer to the specific admission criteria for their intended program and level of study.

Source: IPEDS 2023

ACCEPTANCE RATE

60.4%

More selective than 70% of listed universities.

SelectiveAccessible

SAT RANGE (MID 50%)

1,058–1,175

4001600

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Rolling thereafter.

No application fee.

WHAT IT COSTS

Cost & Financial Aid

Sticker price tells you little — net price after aid is what most families actually pay.

Source: IPEDS 2023

IN-STATE TUITION & FEES

$17,263/yr

Out-of-state: $17,263/yr.

Net price by income band

$18,474
$0–$30,000
$19,082
$30,001–$48,000
$22,037
$48,001–$75,000
$23,907
$75,001–$110,000
$24,177
$110,001+

AVERAGE NET PRICE AFTER AID

$22,239/yr

▲ 3% since 2020-2173% receive grants or scholarships

Average grant or scholarship aid $7,744.

IN THE CLASSROOM

Academics

GCU is dedicated to providing a transformative educational experience with over 75 undergraduate majors. Recognized for excellence in fields such as education and nursing, the university prioritizes a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Source: IPEDS 2023

Student–faculty ratio

21:1

6-year graduation rate

43%

▲ 0 pts since 2016

First-year retention

68%

Median across 34 institutions in our national dataset: 89%.

Bachelor-level fields offered

75

Bachelor-level fields reported as offered in IPEDS

MOST POPULAR FIELDS OF STUDY

Share of bachelor's degree completions, not of all enrolled students.

Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.26.9%
Business Administration and Management, General.11.4%
Human Services, General.7.3%
Elementary Education and Teaching.5.6%
Psychiatric/Mental Health Services Technician.3.4%
Special Education and Teaching, General.3.3%

CAMPUS LIFE

Campus & Housing

Reported capacity of institution-controlled housing and campus setting. Capacity does not indicate how many students currently live in university housing.

Grand Canyon University campus and student housing

University-controlled housing capacity

18.5K

Includes institution-controlled housing; it may extend beyond campus.

Setting

city 300 acres

AFTER GRADUATION

Student outcomes

Earnings and employment of former students after entering the university.

Source: College Scorecard 2023

Median earnings · 10 yrs after entry

$42,186

Median earnings of former students working and not enrolled, ten years after entry.

Working after 10 yrs

79.4%

Share of former students working and not enrolled, ten years after entry.

Earning more than a high-school graduate

65.3%

65.3% of former students earn above the Scorecard high-school earnings threshold, ten years after entry.

Neighborhoods near GCU

Where students live around Grand Canyon University — vibe, walkability, and commute at a glance.

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Data Sources: U.S. Department of Education IPEDS, National Center for Education Statistics, and College Scorecard. University Apartments is not affiliated with Grand Canyon University.