Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the Legacy Program?

  Bucknell's legacy program is a service to our alumni. We coordinate educational programs for families who have children involved in a college search to help them navigate the admissions landscape.

   

• My child is a junior in high school and is interested in visiting Bucknell. Where should we begin?

  As a sophomore or junior, visiting and attending a preview session and campus tour are the perfect place to start. We also offer open houses in the spring and fall. Either option will give your student a solid overview life at Bucknell while exploring our beautiful campus.

  If, after the initial visit, Bucknell remains on your child's college list, we also offer more in-depth visits, including opportunities to attend classes and share meals with current Bucknell students.

  Explore all of our visit options

   

• Can my student have an interview with an Admissions staff member?

  Bucknell does not offer interviews to prospective students that have bearing on their application to Bucknell. However, Admissions counselors are available to speak to students and parents before or after campus tours and at open houses. If your student has additional questions or would like to make another personal connection, please contact us and we will connect you with the Admissions counselor who manages your geographic region.

  Office of Admissions
  570-577-3000
  admissions@bucknell.edu

   

• What role does my child’s legacy status play in the admissions decision?

  Bucknell values your relationship. We will pay close attention to your child's application and consider legacy status as a point of interest. But legacy status does not take the place of achievement in the classroom and the many other important factors that an applicant brings to the table (such as leadership, community service, involvement in extracurricular activities, special talents and high-quality writing). If your child is admitted to Bucknell, their offer will be based on credentials, not because a relative attended Bucknell. 

   

• Will attending legacy events help my child gain admission to Bucknell?

  The legacy events that we offer at Bucknell are for the sole purpose of helping you and your child learn about the college search process. Attending these events does not have any bearing on the eventual Admissions decision.

   

• How can my child maximize their chance of admission to Bucknell?

  First, your child needs to maintain good grades and challenge themselves throughout their high school career. This illustrates intellectual curiosity and an ability to handle a college curriculum.

  Second, your child should put together the best application they can. We read all applications in their entirety, and our Admissions staff values applications that are well thought-out and comprehensive — especially the essays. This is your child's place to highlight talents, share passions and let their personality shine. The staff member should learn something significant about your child after reading these essays.

  Finally, if Bucknell is your child's first choice, an early decision application is a great way to increase their chances for admission.

   

• What percentage of Bucknell students are legacies?

  In the past 10 years, between 7% and 9% of our incoming students were legacies.