liberty university phd admission requirements

• LYNCHBURG, VA
• grade  B+ Overall Grade
• Rating 4.13 out of 5   8,227 reviews

Liberty University Admissions

What is the acceptance rate for lu, will you get in, will you get into lu.

Test Scores and High School GPA for Liberty University See Other Colleges

Admissions Statistics

Admissions deadlines, admissions requirements.

• High School GPA Required
• High School Rank Neither required nor recommended
• High School Transcript Required
• College Prep Courses Recommended
• SAT/ACT Considered but not required
• Recommendations Neither required nor recommended

Get Recruited

Add to list.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

Liberty University Requirements for Admission

Choose your test.

What are Liberty University's admission requirements? While there are a lot of pieces that go into a college application, you should focus on only a few critical things:

• GPA requirements
• Testing requirements, including SAT and ACT requirements
• Application requirements

In this guide we'll cover what you need to get into Liberty University and build a strong application.

School location: Lynchburg, VA

This school is also known as: LU

Admissions Rate: 55.5%

If you want to get in, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate. This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are.

The acceptance rate at Liberty University is 55.5% . For every 100 applicants, 56 are admitted.

This means the school is moderately selective . The school expects you to meet their requirements for GPA and SAT/ACT scores, but they're more flexible than other schools. If you exceed their requirements, you have an excellent chance of getting in. But if you don't, you might be one of the unlucky minority that gets a rejection letter.

We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world's best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies . We've overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools , from state colleges to the Ivy League.

We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools.

Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in.

Liberty University GPA Requirements

Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected.

The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school's average GPA for its current students.

Average GPA: 3.59

The average GPA at Liberty University is 3.59 .

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.

With a GPA of 3.59, Liberty University requires you to be around average in your high school class. You'll need a mix of A's and B's, and very few C's. If you have a lower GPA, you can compensate with harder courses like AP or IB classes. This will help boost your weighted GPA and show your ability to take college classes.

If you're currently a junior or senior, your GPA is hard to change in time for college applications. If your GPA is at or below the school average of 3.59, you'll need a higher SAT or ACT score to compensate . This will help you compete effectively against other applicants who have higher GPAs than you.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them.

Liberty University hasn't explicitly named a policy on SAT/ACT requirements, but because it's published average SAT or ACT scores (we'll cover this next), it's likely test flexible. Typically, these schools say, "if you feel your SAT or ACT score represents you well as a student, submit them. Otherwise, don't."

Despite this policy, the truth is that most students still take the SAT or ACT, and most applicants to Liberty University will submit their scores. If you don't submit scores, you'll have one fewer dimension to show that you're worthy of being admitted, compared to other students. We therefore recommend that you consider taking the SAT or ACT, and doing well.

Liberty University SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school's average score.

Average SAT: 1166

The average SAT score composite at Liberty University is a 1166 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes Liberty University Competitive for SAT test scores.

Liberty University SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 1050, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1270. In other words, a 1050 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1270 will move you up to above average .

Here's the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

SAT Score Choice Policy

The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.

Liberty University has the Score Choice policy of "Highest Section."

This is also known as "superscoring." This means that you can choose which SAT tests you want to send to the school. Of all the scores they receive, your application readers will consider your highest section scores across all SAT test dates you submit .

Click below to learn more about how superscoring critically affects your test strategy.

For example, say you submit the following 3 test scores:

Even though the highest total you scored on any one test date was 1000, Liberty University will take your highest section score from all your test dates, then combine them to form your Superscore. You can raise your composite score from 1000 to 1400 in this example.

This is important for your testing strategy. Because you can choose which tests to send in, and Liberty University forms your Superscore, you can take the SAT as many times as you want, then submit only the tests that give you the highest Superscore. Your application readers will only see that one score.

Therefore, if your SAT superscore is currently below a 1166, we strongly recommend that you consider prepping for the SAT and retaking it . You have a very good chance of raising your score, which will significantly boost your chances of getting in.

Even better, because of the Superscore, you can focus all your energy on a single section at a time. If your Reading score is lower than your other sections, prep only for the Reading section, then take the SAT. Then focus on Math for the next test, and so on. This will give you the highest Superscore possible.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

Liberty University ACT Requirements

Just like for the SAT, Liberty University likely doesn't have a hard ACT cutoff, but if you score too low, your application will get tossed in the trash.

Average ACT: 25

The average ACT score at Liberty University is 25. This score makes Liberty University Moderately Competitive for ACT scores.

The 25th percentile ACT score is 21, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 29.

Even though Liberty University likely says they have no minimum ACT requirement, if you apply with a 21 or below, you'll have a harder time getting in, unless you have something else impressive in your application.

ACT Score Sending Policy

If you're taking the ACT as opposed to the SAT, you have a huge advantage in how you send scores, and this dramatically affects your testing strategy.

Here it is: when you send ACT scores to colleges, you have absolute control over which tests you send. You could take 10 tests, and only send your highest one. This is unlike the SAT, where many schools require you to send all your tests ever taken.

This means that you have more chances than you think to improve your ACT score. To try to aim for the school's ACT requirement of 25 and above, you should try to take the ACT as many times as you can. When you have the final score that you're happy with, you can then send only that score to all your schools.

ACT Superscore Policy

By and large, most colleges do not superscore the ACT. (Superscore means that the school takes your best section scores from all the test dates you submit, and then combines them into the best possible composite score). Thus, most schools will just take your highest ACT score from a single sitting.

We weren't able to find the school's exact ACT policy, which most likely means that it does not Superscore. Regardless, you can choose your single best ACT score to send in to Liberty University, so you should prep until you reach our recommended target ACT score of 25.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

SAT/ACT Writing Section Requirements

Currently, only the ACT has an optional essay section that all students can take. The SAT used to also have an optional Essay section, but since June 2021, this has been discontinued unless you are taking the test as part of school-day testing in a few states. Because of this, no school requires the SAT Essay or ACT Writing section, but some schools do recommend certain students submit their results if they have them.

Liberty University considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don't need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you're applying to may require it.

Final Admissions Verdict

Because this school is moderately selective, strong academic performance will almost guarantee you admission . Scoring a 1270 SAT or a 29 ACT or above will nearly guarantee you admission. Because the school admits 55.5% of all applicants, being far above average raises the admission rate for you to nearly 100%.

If you can achieve a high SAT/ACT score, the rest of your application essentially doesn't matter. You still need to meet the rest of the application requirements, and your GPA shouldn't be too far off from the school average of 3.59. But you won't need dazzling extracurriculars and breathtaking letters of recommendation to get in. You can get in based on the merits of your score alone.

But if your score is a 1050 SAT or a 21 ACT and below, you have a good chance of being one of the unlucky few to be rejected.

Admissions Calculator

Here's our custom admissions calculator. Plug in your numbers to see what your chances of getting in are. Pick your test: SAT ACT

• 80-100%: Safety school: Strong chance of getting in
• 50-80%: More likely than not getting in
• 20-50%: Lower but still good chance of getting in
• 5-20%: Reach school: Unlikely to get in, but still have a shot
• 0-5%: Hard reach school: Very difficult to get in

How would your chances improve with a better score?

Take your current SAT score and add 160 points (or take your ACT score and add 4 points) to the calculator above. See how much your chances improve?

At PrepScholar, we've created the leading online SAT/ACT prep program . We guarantee an improvement of 160 SAT points or 4 ACT points on your score, or your money back.

Here's a summary of why we're so much more effective than other prep programs:

• PrepScholar customizes your prep to your strengths and weaknesses . You don't waste time working on areas you already know, so you get more results in less time.
• We guide you through your program step-by-step so that you're never confused about what you should be studying. Focus all your time learning, not worrying about what to learn.
• Our team is made of national SAT/ACT experts . PrepScholar's founders are Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers . You'll be studying using the strategies that actually worked for them.
• We've gotten tremendous results with thousands of students across the country. Read about our score results and reviews from our happy customers .

There's a lot more to PrepScholar that makes it the best SAT/ACT prep program. Click to learn more about our program , or sign up for our 5-day free trial to check out PrepScholar for yourself:

Application Requirements

Every school requires an application with the bare essentials - high school transcript and GPA, application form, and other core information. Many schools, as explained above, also require SAT and ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation, application essays, and interviews. We'll cover the exact requirements of Liberty University here.

Application Requirements Overview

• Common Application Not accepted
• Electronic Application Available
• Essay or Personal Statement Required for all freshmen
• Letters of Recommendation
• Interview Not required
• Application Fee $50
• Fee Waiver Available? Available
• Other Notes

Testing Requirements

• SAT or ACT Considered if submitted
• SAT Essay or ACT Writing Optional
• SAT Subject Tests
• Scores Due in Office None

Coursework Requirements

• Subject Required Years
• Foreign Language
• Social Studies

Deadlines and Early Admissions

• Offered? Deadline Notification
• Yes Rolling Rolling

Admissions Office Information

• Address: 1971 Lynchburg, VA 24515
• Phone: (434) 582-2000 x2000
• Fax: (434) 582-2304
• Email: [email protected]

Other Schools For You

If you're interested in Liberty University, you'll probably be interested in these schools as well. We've divided them into 3 categories depending on how hard they are to get into, relative to Liberty University.

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than Liberty University. If you improve your SAT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

Same Level: Equally Hard to Get Into

If you're competitive for Liberty University, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you're currently competitive for Liberty University, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If Liberty University is currently out of your reach, you might already be competitive for these schools.

Data on this page is sourced from Peterson's Databases © 2023 (Peterson's LLC. All rights reserved.) as well as additional publicly available sources.

If You Liked Our Advice...

Our experts have written hundreds of useful articles on improving your SAT score and getting into college. You'll definitely find something useful here.

Subscribe to our newsletter to get FREE strategies and guides sent to your email. Learn how to ace the SAT with exclusive tips and insights that we share with our private newsletter subscribers.

You should definitely follow us on social media . You'll get updates on our latest articles right on your feed. Follow us on all of our social networks:

• Degree Completion Plans
• Course Guides
• Supplemental Instruction
• IT Helpdesk
• Academic Departments
• Doctoral Degrees
• Communications
• Criminal Justice
• Public Policy
• Strategic Leadership
• Worship Studies
• More Programs >
• Masters Degrees
• Applied Psychology
• Business Administration
• Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Executive Leadership
• Healthcare Administration
• Political Science
• Public Administration
• Social Work
• Bachelor's Degrees
• Graphic Design
• Information Technology
• Paralegal Studies
• Sports Management
• Associate Degrees
• Christian Counseling
• Creative Writing
• Early Childhood Education
• Information Systems
• Interdisciplinary Studies
• Medical Office Assistant
• STEM Mathematics
• Undergraduate
• Christian Ministry
• Data Networking
• Project Management
• Biblical Studies
• Educational Tech. & Online Instruction
• General Business
• Health Promotion
• Theological Studies
• Curriculum and Instruction
• Instructional Design
• Higher Ed. Administration
• Special Education
• New Programs
• Biblical Counseling (BS)
• Chaplaincy (MA)
• Christian Leadership – Faith-Based Consulting (PhD)
• Educational Research (PhD)
• Fire Administration – Emergency Medical Services (BS)
• Geographic Information Systems – Commercial Logistics (MS)
• Healthcare Law and Compliance (MBA)
• Instructional Design and Technology (EdS)
• Interdisciplinary Research (MA)
• International Relations – Human Rights (MS)
• Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (BS)
• Special Education (EdD)
• Who Are We?
• Our Three A's
• Virtual Tour of Liberty's Campus
• What is a Nonprofit University?
• Why Choose Liberty?
• Accreditation
• Top 10 Reasons to Choose Liberty University
• Video Testimonials
• Annual Security Report
• Annual Security Report 2023
• Admission Information
• Getting Started With Liberty
• Admission Process
• Admission FAQs
• Academic Calendar
• Admission Resources
• Common Forms and Documents
• Technical Requirements
• Official Transcript Request Form
• Textbooks and Software
• Transferring to Liberty
• Transfer Students
• Experience Plus – Credit for Life Experience
• Transfer FAQs
• University Transcript Request Links
• Tuition Assistance
• First Responder Discount
• Military Tuition Discount
• Small Business Discount
• Corporate Tuition Assistance
• Corporate Tuition Affiliates
• Financial Basics
• Tuition & Fees
• Payment Plans
• Military Benefits
• Financial Check-In
• Financial Aid
• Financial Aid Process
• Financial Aid FAQs
• Grants & Loans
• Scholarship Opportunities
• Military Homepage
• Military Benefits Guide
• Discount on Tuition
• Doctoral Military Rate
• Veterans Benefits
• Academics and Programs
• Military Programs and Partnerships
• Military Benefits and Scholarships
• Community and Resources
• Top Used Links
• Upcoming Events
• Academic Advising
• Jerry Falwell Library
• Policies and Deadlines
• Liberty University Academic Calendar Online
• Academic Policies
• Information Technology (IT)
• Online Writing Center
• Honor Societies
• Student Advocate Office
• Flames Pass (Student ID)
• Online Student Life
• Office of Disability Accommodation Support
• Commonly Used Forms
• learn.liberty.edu

Earn a degree from the comfort of your home.

Request more information about our programs:

Undergraduate Graduate Doctorate

Explore programs available for…

New term starting soon., ranked in the top 10% of niche.com’s best online schools in america and recognized by multiple institutions for   academic quality, affordability, and accessibility, find out more information on….

• Bachelor’s Degrees
• Master’s Degrees
• Tuition & Financing

Until Start Of Next Term.

Term Start Date: May 13, 2024

Defining Moments 3:00

Week in the Life 1:00

Start Planning For Your Future!

Estimate your cost.

Cost Per Credit Hour Per Semester for 7 to 15 Credits* Per Semester for 9 to 15 Credits* i Visit the Tuition and Financing page for more information.

Additional program fees may apply. See program page for details.

Disclaimer: This calculator is a tool that provides a rough estimate of the total cost of tuition, and should not be relied upon to determine overall costs, as pricing may vary by program and tuition/fees are subject to change. Estimates are not final or binding, and do not include potential financial aid eligibility.

Your Cost Estimate:

View All Tuition & Fees Go Back

For eligibility requirements for military discounts at the doctoral level, please review the online benefits page .

Request Information

See  what they’re saying about Liberty University

Programs for Nearly Every Field

Go from merely surviving in your current job to thriving in the career of your dreams.

Find Your Degree >

Enjoy Flexible Courses

Liberty’s online degrees are taught in a flexible virtual classroom environment, allowing students to complete assignments on their own schedules.

View Course Guides >

Backed by a Physical Campus

You can tailor your degree to match your area of study while studying at our state-of-the-art Virginia campus or globally online.

Take a Virtual Tour of Campus >

Military Support

Liberty University is dedicated to providing a world class educational experience to military students across the globe.

Let Us Serve You >

Still have questions? Check out our full FAQs page for more answers.

What does it mean that you are a Christian college?

Since 1971, we’ve had one mission – Training Champions for Christ . That is, and always will be, the core of Liberty University. But as we are increasingly in the public eye of a culture that understands Christianity less and less, it is important that we clearly define what we mean by “Champion for Christ.”

It is an advocate. A defender. Someone who champions living like Christ displays gratitude, humility, integrity, joy, love, service, and unity. At Liberty, a champion is a Christ-centered man or woman with the values, knowledge, and skills essential for impacting tomorrow’s world.

Here, all of our courses are taught from a biblical perspective because we don’t just train skilled professionals — we train exceptional professionals who want to make a difference. We believe this focus on ethics sets our students apart from their peers — in fact, many employers seek out our students because of their reputation for trustworthiness. Students from any faith background are welcome to study with us, and many find the experience personally enriching.

How quickly can I complete my degree?

Degree completion time greatly depends on the chosen program and the amount of transfer credit you may have. For undergraduate online degree programs, the more credits you transfer in, the faster you can complete your degree online. You may be able to earn credit for professional training  through the College Level Examination Program ( CLEP ), Institutional Challenge Examinations ( ICE ), or by utilizing credit from previous college courses you have taken. For online graduate and postgraduate programs, it depends on the program and the amount of time you have available to spend on your classes. Most online undergraduate and graduate degree programs have a certain number of courses that must be completed through Liberty to graduate. Please contact our Admissions Department to learn more.

How do online classes compare to traditional on-campus classes?

Traditional classes are completed through structured face-to-face lectures and class time, and they operate on a semester-by-semester basis. Most online classes last eight weeks, while some are 14 or 17 weeks in length, and a few select programs require minimal 1- or 2-week on-campus intensives. During that time, you can choose how and when you want to study. As long as you turn assignments in by your professors’ deadlines, you can set your own pace. Through it all, you’ll have access to an extensive digital library, online study aids, writing resources, and technology support. Many employers look very favorably on the fact that online students have the discipline to manage their schedules and work simultaneously. Employers typically support online programs and their employees’ enrollment in an online degree with Liberty University’s online programs.

What are the admission requirements for my program?

Please visit the admission requirements page for the requirements specific to your program.

Do you accept International students?

Yes. Liberty University Online has students studying from countries all around the globe. Through our convenient online format, students can complete their online programs without residency requirements for most programs. A few programs require minimal 1- or 2-week on-campus intensives at times convenient to the student. Students residing outside of the United States with intensive requirements should speak with resident admissions about VISA eligibility.

2019-11-27 23:59:00

2019-11-28 23:59:00

*Some restrictions may occur for this promotion to apply. This promotion also excludes active faculty and staff, military, Non-Degree Seeking, DGIA, Continuing Education, WSB, and Certificates.

Apply FREE This Week*

Almost there! How may we contact you?

Our Admissions team is ready to answer any additional questions you may have.

By submitting contact information through this form, I agree that Liberty University and its affiliates may call and/or text me about its offerings by any phone number I have provided and may provide in the future, including any wireless number, using automated technology.

Message and data rates may apply. For additional information, text HELP to 49595 or 49596. You may opt-out at any time by sending STOP to 49595 or 49596. Visit for Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.

• Get My Results

Discover what Liberty can do for you!

Get your personalized guide on how to start with liberty..

In 60 seconds or less!

Become a Champion for Christ

Learn More About Liberty University Online

You will be automatically taken to the application once you submit your request for information

Message and data rates may apply. For additional information, text HELP to 49595 or 49596. You may opt-out at any time by sending STOP to 49595 or 49596. Visit for Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy .

You have to have a lot of self-motivation and self-discipline when you are going to school online, but the amazing thing is at Liberty you do not need to do it by yourself. You really do have resources like someone who is going to school on campus.

– Janae Fleming ’15, B.S. in Education

• Liberty Online
• Residential
• Request More Information
• (434) 582-2000
• Academic Calendar
• Bachelor’s Degrees
• Master’s Degrees
• Postgraduate Degrees
• Doctoral Degrees
• Associate Degrees
• Certificate Programs
• Degree Minors
• Registrar’s Office
• Degree Completion Plans (DCPs)
• Course Catalog
• Policy Directory
• Academic Support (CASAS)
• LU Bookstore
• Research at Liberty
• Eagle Scholars Program
• Honors Program
• Quiz Bowl Team
• Debate Team
• Student Travel
• Liberty University Online Academy (K-12)
• Tuition & Costs
• Net Price Calculator
• Student Financial Services
• Scholarships
• Undergraduate
• International
• Apply for LU Online
• Online Admissions
• Online Tuition & Fees
• Military Students
• School of Law
• Osteopathic Medicine
• Convocation
• Campus Community
• LU Serve Now
• Liberty Worship Collective
• Office of Spiritual Development
• Online Engagement
• LU Shepherd
• Doctrinal Statement
• Mission Statement
• Residence Life
• Student Government
• Student Clubs
• Conduct Code & Appeals
• Health & Wellness
• Student Affairs Offices
• Campus Recreation
• LaHaye Rec & Fit
• Intramural Sports
• Hydaway Outdoor Center
• Snowflex Centre
• Student Activities
• Club Sports
• LaHaye Ice Center
• ID & Campus Services
• Dining Services
• Parents & Families
• Commuter Students
• International Students
• Graduate Students
• Disability Support
• Equity & Inclusion
• NCAA Sports
• Flames Club
• Varsity Club
• Williams Stadium
• Vines Center
• Liberty Baseball Stadium
• Kamphuis Field
• Ticket Information
• Flames Merchandise
• LU Quick Facts
• News & Events
• Virtual Tour
• History of Liberty
• Contact Liberty
• Visit Liberty
• Give to Liberty
• School of Behavioral Sciences: Counselor Education
• Counseling Faculty & Staff

O’Tilia Hunter

O'Tilia Hunter, PhD, NCC, LPC, LCPC-S, LCADC-S

Additional Navigation

Core Faculty

[email protected]

• PhD Counselor Education and Supervision, Walden University, 2014
• MA Professional Counseling, Liberty University, 2010
• BA Human Service Management, 2006

Field of Experience

• Mental Health Counseling
• Spirituality in Death and Dying, including Bereavement
• Public Service Behavioral Health

Licensure and Certification

• Licensed Professional Counselor, Washington, DC
• Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor – Supervisor, Maryland
• Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor – Supervisor, Maryland
• Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, International Association of Trauma Professional
• National Certified Counselor

Dr. O’Tilia Hunter is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Supervisor in Maryland and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC.  She has a B.A. in Human Service Management from University of Phoenix, an M.A. in Professional Counseling from Liberty University, and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Walden University. Dr. Hunter was inducted into Chi Sigma Iota, an international honors society for counselors.

Dr. Hunter is a member of several professional counseling organizations and is a National Certified Counselor (NCC). She has been working in higher education since 2010, and has experience in non-profit, private practice and public service.

Dr. Hunter has clinical experience in working with adults, couples and families in public health, non-profit agencies and private practice settings.  Areas of experience include tri-occurring, co-occurring, trauma, marriage and family, grief and bereavement, as well as women’s issues.