Admission to Elon is competitive. Approximately 19,000 applications are received for 1,800 seats in the first-year class. For students enrolling in fall 2023, Elon will offer a test-optional admissions program. Students applying to the nursing program must submit SAT or ACT scores. The most important factors in the admissions decision are the academic record—courses taken, grades attained and class standing—followed by the application essay. Other factors considered include leadership potential, extracurricular and service-related activities, special talents, and ability to contribute positively to the campus community and an interview.