Top 10 PsyD Programs With High Acceptance Rates 2026

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) programs train students for clinical practice, preparing future psychologists to work directly with individuals, families, and communities. Acceptance rates can be a deciding factor, as highly competitive programs may limit your opportunities.

Choosing a PsyD program with a high acceptance rate will allow you to enter the field more easily, access professional training, and move toward licensure. Below, we highlight schools that make this path more accessible.

How Competitive Are PsyD Programs?

PsyD programs can be competitive because schools often keep class sizes small to provide close mentorship and clinical training. That means spots may be limited, but some universities admit more students, giving you a better chance to start your psychology career without facing the toughest admissions hurdles.

What Is Considered a High Acceptance Rate for a PsyD Program?

A high acceptance rate for a PsyD program is usually considered 60% or above, which is rare at the doctoral level. While many psychology programs admit fewer applicants, some PsyD schools are less selective, giving you more opportunities to pursue advanced training and move toward a career in clinical practice.

What Are the Easiest PsyD Programs To Get Into?

Some PsyD programs stand out for their higher acceptance rates and approachable admission requirements, making it easier for you to take the next step toward becoming a licensed psychologist. Top examples include:

• Meridian University: 100% acceptance rate
• Chestnut Hill College: 98% acceptance rate
• George Fox University: 96% acceptance rate

Best PsyD Programs With the Highest Acceptance Rates

If you’re looking for a more accessible path to a psychology career, these PsyD programs admit a higher percentage of applicants. Each school offers quality training while giving you a stronger chance of acceptance.

1. Meridian University

Meridian University’s PsyD in clinical psychology blends rigorous academic study with holistic approaches to healing. The 108-credit program draws from areas like somatic, depth, and transpersonal psychology, while also engaging with expressive arts, ecology, and spiritual traditions. You’ll gain a well-rounded foundation that connects theory with practice.

The program is flexible, offering both online and hybrid formats with in-person classes in Los Angeles. Graduates may qualify for psychologist, MFT, or LPCC licensure in multiple states. Concentrations let you personalize your degree, from clinical psychology to transformative leadership and expressive arts.

• Acceptance rate: 100%
• Estimated tuition cost: $676 per credit hour
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

2. Chestnut Hill College

Chestnut Hill College’s PsyD in clinical psychology prepares you to become a skilled practitioner through a practitioner-scholar model that mixes clinical training with strong academic foundations. You’ll gain experience in psychotherapy, assessment, supervision, and consultation while also engaging in practicums, internships, and dissertation research.

The program offers optional concentrations in couple, family, and child therapy or psychological assessment, allowing you to tailor your degree to your goals. Rooted in psychodynamic interpersonal and systems theories, the curriculum focuses on ethical practice, cultural competence, and scholarly inquiry, equipping you for licensure across most U.S. states.

• Acceptance rate: 98%
• Estimated tuition cost: $1,100 per credit hour
• Accreditation: American Psychological Association (APA)

3. George Fox University

George Fox University has a PsyD in clinical psychology that includes extensive hands-on training, preparing you for professional practice through coursework, practicums, and internships. The program focuses on a generalist foundation, while also encouraging you to explore advanced skills and applied research. Small cohort sizes and mentoring relationships give you personal support as you progress through the program.

You can customize your training with one of three specialization tracks. The primary care psychology track prepares you to collaborate with medical teams in integrated care settings. In the child and adolescent psychology track, you’ll focus on evidence-based therapies for younger populations across school and community contexts. The assessment track provides advanced training in psychological testing and evaluation for courts, clinics, and employers.

• Acceptance rate: 96%
• Estimated tuition cost: $1,150 per credit hour
• Accreditation: APA; Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)

4. Capella University

The PsyD in school psychology at Capella University is built for students who want to combine flexibility with hands-on training. You’ll learn from practicing professionals while completing online coursework, plus attend in-person residencies where you can refine your skills in assessment, intervention, and collaboration with school staff. The program also integrates supervised practicum and internship experiences, which give you direct client contact in real-world settings.

You’ll be supported by dedicated advisors, academic coaches, and a practicum support team throughout your journey. For students seeking licensure, pairing this PsyD with Capella’s MS in School Psychology can also help prepare you for the Praxis exam.

• Acceptance rate: 95%
• Estimated tuition cost: $555 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

5. Wright State University

Wright State University’s PsyD in clinical psychology gives you a practitioner-focused education grounded in generalist training. Over five years—including four years of coursework and practicum followed by a one-year internship—you’ll build skills in assessment, therapy, and professional consultation. Much of your training takes place under direct supervision, helping bridge theory with real-world practice.

You can tailor your focus with emphasis options like child, forensic, or health/rehabilitation/neuropsychology, and engage in supervised training both on campus and at community sites across Ohio. The program has been APA-accredited since 1982, reflecting its long-standing preparation of practitioners.

• Acceptance rate: 95%
• Estimated tuition cost: $10,886 per semester (in-state); $17,396 per semester (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: APA; HLC

6. Widener University

The PsyD in clinical psychology at Widener University gives you a practitioner-scholar education that’s rooted in clinical training and hands-on experience. You’ll complete coursework, practicum, and a locally guaranteed APA-accredited internship—no APPIC match required—for a smoother path through training.

The program also offers compelling dual-degree options, including PsyD combined with a Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Education (MEd), or Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ), allowing you to tailor your training for roles in business, education, or criminal justice. Widener’s PsyD program is one of the longest-running APA-accredited programs.

• Acceptance rate: 84%
• Estimated tuition cost: $1,200 per credit hour
• Accreditation: APA; Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

7. Marywood University

Marywood University’s PsyD in clinical psychology gives you academic foundations with early hands-on training. You’ll begin your clinical journey during your first summer practicum, then progress through layered community placements that help you apply coursework in real client settings. The scholar-practitioner model ensures you’re both clinically adept and research-informed, with deep training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and culturally sensitive interventions.

The program stands out with small cohorts and faculty mentorship, offering intimate support as you move toward licensure. You’ll work in the in-house psychological services center and diverse external practicum sites, ensuring you graduate with extensive experience and readiness for professional practice.

• Acceptance rate: 84%
• Estimated tuition cost: $1,050 per credit hour
• Accreditation: APA; MSCHE

8. University of Hartford

The PsyD in clinical psychology at the University of Hartford will give you academic coursework and extensive clinical training based on the practitioner-scholar model. Over three years of full-time study, including summer terms, you’ll dive into diagnostic and intervention training, manage practicums in diverse settings, and defend a dissertation rooted in psychological practice.

You also have the option to pursue a child and adolescent proficiency track, which provides extra instruction for work with younger populations through targeted courses and placement opportunities. Faculty and supervisors bring expertise across a variety of specialties, so you gain exposure to a wide range of therapeutic approaches and clinical contexts.

• Acceptance rate: 83%
• Estimated tuition cost: $1,386 per credit hour
• Accreditation: APA; New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

9. University of Indianapolis

At the University of Indianapolis, the PsyD in clinical psychology mixes strong academic foundations with intensive hands-on training. You'll complete a 111-credit program over about five years that includes coursework, supervised practicums, and a full-time internship, giving you a smooth transition toward clinical practice.

While the program accepts a broad range of students, it still keeps you on track toward shaping a professional identity in clinical psychology. Small cohort size ensures you'll get personalized guidance as you master core competencies and develop as a clinician.

• Acceptance rate: 73%
• Estimated tuition cost: $1,080 per credit hour
• Accreditation: APA; HLC

10. Nova Southeastern University

If you're looking for a PsyD program that mixes clinical depth with flexibility, Nova Southeastern University could be a great fit. The PsyD in clinical psychology embraces a practitioner-informed-by-science model and prepares you through a rigorous 119-credit, five-year curriculum that includes coursework, a clinical competency exam, and a year-long APA-accredited internship.

You can also specialize early in the process, choosing from seven distinct tracks:

• child, adolescent, and family
• forensic
• health
• neuropsychology
• multicultural
• long-term mental illness
• psychodynamic psychology

Clinical opportunities in South Florida’s diverse communities enhance your training, which provides you with real-world experience and preparation for multicultural practice.

• Acceptance rate: 73%
• Estimated tuition cost: $1,396 per credit hour
• Accreditation: APA; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Admissions Requirements for PsyD Programs With High Acceptance Rates

Even schools with higher acceptance rates maintain academic standards to prepare you for advanced clinical training. Most programs expect you to have a strong foundation in psychology and related experience. Typical requirements include:

• bachelor’s or master’s degree in psychology or related field
• minimum GPA, often 3.0 or higher
• letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources
• personal statement outlining goals and interest in psychology
• interview to assess program fit and readiness

How To Choose the Right PsyD Program

When comparing PsyD programs, you’ll want to look closely at accreditation, especially approval from the APA. Accreditation ensures your degree meets professional standards and is required for licensure in most states. You should also weigh cost, program length, and acceptance rates to find a balance between affordability and accessibility.

Beyond admissions, consider how each program supports your long-term goals. Look into internship opportunities, clinical placements, and supervised practice since these experiences are essential for licensure. Strong programs also guide you through exam preparation and offer networking connections that can shape your career in clinical psychology.

FAQs About PsyD Programs With High Acceptance Rates

If you’re considering a PsyD program, you probably have questions about admissions, costs, and career outcomes. These FAQs address common concerns to help you make an informed decision.

Are There Any PsyD Programs With a 100% Acceptance Rate?

Yes, a few PsyD programs admit every qualified applicant, such as Meridian University with a 100% acceptance rate. While these schools may be less selective, they still require you to meet academic standards and complete clinical training, ensuring you’re prepared for the demands of professional psychology practice.

Do High Acceptance Rate PsyD Programs Still Lead to Licensure?

High acceptance rate PsyD programs can still prepare you for licensure, as long as the school is accredited by the APA. Accreditation matters far more than selectivity, since it guarantees your coursework, internship, and supervised hours will meet state requirements to practice as a licensed psychologist.

Can I Earn a PsyD Online at a High Acceptance Rate School?

Fully online PsyD programs are rare because of the clinical training required, but some schools offer hybrid options with online coursework paired with in-person residencies or placements. While acceptance rates may vary, these flexible formats can give you more accessible entry into doctoral study while still meeting licensure preparation standards.

What Careers Can I Pursue With a PsyD From a High Acceptance Rate Program?

With a PsyD, you can work in roles such as clinical psychologist, counselor, or professor. Graduates also find opportunities in health care settings, private practice, community agencies, and schools. High acceptance rate programs may be more accessible, but they still prepare you for meaningful careers in direct psychological services and mental health leadership.

How Much Does a PsyD Cost at a High Acceptance Rate School?

PsyD tuition varies widely, with many programs costing between $25,000 and $40,000 per year. Schools with higher acceptance rates can be more affordable, especially if they offer scholarships or assistantships. Remember to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), as federal aid and grants may help reduce the cost of pursuing your doctoral training in psychology.

Is It Easier To Transfer From a High Acceptance Rate PsyD Into a More Selective Program?

Transferring between PsyD programs can be challenging, even if you start at a school with higher acceptance rates. Selective programs often have strict requirements and may not accept many transfer credits. If you’re considering transferring, it’s best to review each school’s policies before enrolling to understand what coursework and clinical hours may carry over.

Explore PsyD Programs

Take the next step toward your psychology career by browsing PsyD programs on Learn.org. Connect directly with schools to learn more about tuition, admission requirements, and opportunities for clinical training.