Capella University (CU): Acceptance Rate & Tuition

Capella University has one of the highest acceptance rates for accredited universities and one of the most affordable tuition rates for online college degree programs.

Capella University has an acceptance rate of 100% according to the US Department of Education Scorecard website. They have an open admission policy that allows students who meet basic requirements to enroll in a bachelor's degree program.

Online tuition is $350 to $415 per credit hour based on full-time enrollment or $2,500 to $3,370 per every 12 weeks billing session depending on the learning format. However, several factors contribute to the total cost of tuition.

The total cost of tuition includes mandatory and optional fees, awards from financial aid and scholarships, tuition discounts, and more.

What Is the Acceptance Rate at Capella University?

Capella University has an open admission policy that contributes to its 100% acceptance rate. The accredited institution accepts all students who are 24 years of age or older if they meet specific requirements.

Organizations calculate acceptance rates and other statistical information to help determine a college's overall ranking. However, acceptance rates differ largely because of the number of applicants.

Typically, an organization calculates an acceptance rate by dividing the number of applicants accepted into a college by the total number of applicants.

Capella University's Admissions Requirements

Capella University has basic admission requirements for online undergraduate degree programs that include:

  • 24 years of age or older
  • personal identification
  • high school transcripts
  • college transcripts (if applicable)

Each program also requires students to have a certain GPA and master's degrees and doctoral degree programs require students to hold a bachelor's or master's degree. Test scores are not a requirement for admission.

Prospective students must also be 24 years of age or older. Applicants younger than 24 must be a veteran or in the military. Adults younger than 24 can also meet admission requirements by having 24 or more prior college course credits or completing an approved reading and writing assessment.

Capella University Tuition and Cost Breakdown

Capella University offers affordable tuition rates for its online degree programs. Tuition rates are not based on students living in Minnesota or out-of-state.

Online bachelor's degree programs cost $350 to $415 per credit hour based on full-time enrollment or $2,500 to $3,370 per 12-week billing session. Rates depend on the program.

Master's programs online cost $450 to $830 per credit hour or $2,535 to $2,950 per 12-week billing session. There may be other costs associated with earning a degree at Capella. Other fees include:

  • credit for prior learning fees
  • resource kit fee

Aspiring students with a high school diploma may qualify to take free courses through Capella Jumpstart before becoming an undergrad. Capella University provides a net price calculator tool to help determine degree costs.

How To Apply at Capella University

American adults interested in higher education can apply to Capella University on the Capella University website. There is no application fee and Capella does not require SAT or ACT scores.

International students who can read, speak, and write in English can also apply to Capella University if they have international transcripts. Enrollment services are available to help all students through the application process.

FAQs About Acceptance Rates and Tuition at Capella University

The FAQs below may answer a degree-seeking student's questions about Capella University's acceptance and tuition rates.

How Hard Is It to Get into Capella University?

It is not hard to get into Capella University with basic credentials such as identification documentation and high school or college transcripts. Adults seeking a nontraditional higher education should consider Capella University and its online degree programs.

Some students may have additional admission requirements such as passing a test to enroll if they cannot meet Capella's basic requirements.

Does Capella University Accept Financial Aid?

Capella University accepts financial aid awards by submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Students may qualify for the Pell Grant or other federal and state grants.

Capella students can also reduce the cost of tuition through scholarships, tuition waivers, tuition reimbursement programs, and more. Student loans are also available to help with tuition costs.

What Is the Graduation Rate at Capella University?

Capella University's graduation rate is 25% according to the College Scorecard website. Many students transfer to another school and some students withdraw before graduating.

Graduation and retention rates help determine a college's overall ranking and prospective students determine whether to apply to a certain college or university.

Is Capella a Respected University?

Capella University is legitimate and one of the most well-respected, for-profit institutions by employers and other colleges and universities because of its accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission.

Students can earn a respected degree in business administration, criminal justice, or social work. Other respected degrees at Capella include studies in health care administration, human resources management, and information technology.