University of Alabama at Birmingham Overview
The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) is a prominent public research university located in Birmingham, Alabama. Established in 1969, UAB has grown to become one of the state’s leading universities, known for its world-class research, medical programs, and commitment to academic excellence. UAB offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across various disciplines, including health sciences, business, engineering, education, and the liberal arts. UAB is particularly renowned for its healthcare and medical programs, home to one of the top-ranked hospitals and medical schools in the United States.
UAB is also recognized for its diverse student body and commitment to community engagement. The university provides students with numerous opportunities for research, internships, and hands-on learning experiences, making it an ideal institution for students pursuing both academic and professional success.
Average GRE Score for University of Alabama at Birmingham
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required for many graduate programs at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, particularly in fields such as health sciences, business, engineering, and the natural sciences. GRE scores are used to assess an applicant’s readiness for graduate-level coursework, with specific score requirements varying by program.
Historical and Current GRE Scores
The average GRE scores for admitted students at UAB have remained competitive over the past decade. While individual programs may have specific score requirements, the general trend shows that UAB attracts students with above-average GRE scores. Graduate programs that are more research-intensive or competitive tend to have higher GRE score expectations, particularly in the quantitative reasoning section for fields like engineering and business.
Average GRE Scores Over the Past 10 Years
Below is a table outlining the average GRE scores for students admitted to UAB graduate programs over the past decade:
| Year | Verbal Reasoning | Quantitative Reasoning | Analytical Writing |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 152 | 150 | 3.8 |
| 2015 | 153 | 150 | 3.8 |
| 2016 | 153 | 151 | 3.9 |
| 2017 | 154 | 151 | 3.9 |
| 2018 | 154 | 152 | 4.0 |
| 2019 | 155 | 153 | 4.0 |
| 2020 | 155 | 153 | 4.0 |
| 2021 | 156 | 154 | 4.1 |
| 2022 | 156 | 154 | 4.1 |
| 2023 | 157 | 155 | 4.2 |
Over the past decade, the GRE scores for admitted students at UAB have shown a gradual upward trend, particularly in the quantitative reasoning and analytical writing sections.
Average GPA for University of Alabama at Birmingham
The Grade Point Average (GPA) is a critical factor in the admissions process at UAB for both undergraduate and graduate programs. The university uses GPA as a measure of a student’s academic preparedness and likelihood for success in higher education. UAB has high academic standards, and applicants are typically expected to meet or exceed the minimum GPA requirements set by their chosen program.
Undergraduate GPA Requirements
For undergraduate admissions, UAB generally requires a minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale for regular admission. However, the average GPA of incoming freshmen is typically much higher, often ranging between 3.5 and 4.0. UAB takes a holistic approach to admissions, considering factors such as standardized test scores (ACT/SAT), extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community involvement in addition to GPA.
UAB seeks to admit students who are academically prepared and show the potential for success in a rigorous academic environment. Students who fall below the minimum GPA requirement may still be considered for conditional admission or be placed on an academic improvement plan, depending on their overall academic profile.
Graduate GPA Requirements
Graduate programs at UAB generally require a minimum GPA of 3.0 for admission. More competitive programs, such as those in health sciences, engineering, and business, often prefer applicants with GPAs above 3.5. Some graduate programs may offer conditional admission to students with slightly lower GPAs, provided they can demonstrate strong potential through other aspects of their application, such as high GRE scores, relevant work experience, or exceptional letters of recommendation.
Maintaining a 3.0 GPA is also a requirement for graduate students to remain in good academic standing throughout their program.
Admissions Statistics for University of Alabama at Birmingham
Admissions statistics at UAB reflect the competitive nature of the university’s programs and its appeal to a wide range of students. The university’s holistic admissions process considers a variety of factors beyond just GPA and test scores, which allows UAB to enroll students who are not only academically prepared but also engaged in their communities and dedicated to their personal and professional growth.
Median GRE Scores for Graduate Programs
The median GRE scores for graduate students admitted to UAB are as follows:
- Verbal Reasoning: 157
- Quantitative Reasoning: 155
- Analytical Writing: 4.2
These scores represent the average performance of students admitted to UAB’s graduate programs. Programs in health sciences, engineering, and business typically have higher GRE score expectations, particularly in the quantitative and analytical sections.
Median GPA for Admission
The median GPA for students admitted to UAB varies by program and level of study:
- Undergraduate Admissions: The median GPA for incoming undergraduate students is approximately 3.6. While the minimum GPA for regular admission is 2.75, the average GPA of admitted students reflects UAB’s emphasis on academic preparedness and achievement.
- Graduate Admissions: The median GPA for admitted graduate students is approximately 3.5. More competitive programs, such as those in the health sciences or engineering, often prefer applicants with GPAs above 3.5.
Acceptance Rate
UAB’s acceptance rate generally ranges between 60% and 70%. The university’s relatively high acceptance rate reflects its commitment to providing access to higher education for a diverse range of students. However, more competitive programs, particularly in the health sciences and engineering, tend to have lower acceptance rates due to limited enrollment capacity and higher academic standards.
The acceptance rate varies by program, with highly specialized or professional programs (such as medical, dental, and nursing programs) having significantly lower acceptance rates due to high demand and rigorous admissions criteria.
TOEFL Requirement for International Applicants
TOEFL and English Proficiency Requirements
The University of Alabama at Birmingham welcomes international students from around the world. For applicants whose first language is not English, UAB requires proof of English proficiency to ensure that students can succeed in an academic environment where English is the primary language of instruction. The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is the primary test used to assess English proficiency, although UAB also accepts other standardized English language tests, such as the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English).
TOEFL Score Requirements
The minimum TOEFL scores required for admission to UAB are:
- Internet-based test (iBT): 80
- Paper-based test (PBT): 550
These scores reflect the baseline proficiency needed for international students to succeed in UAB’s academic programs. However, certain programs may require higher TOEFL scores, particularly those in fields such as health sciences, business, and engineering.
IELTS Score Requirements
UAB also accepts IELTS scores as an alternative to the TOEFL. The minimum required IELTS score for admission is 6.5, with no individual band score below 6.0. Some programs may require higher IELTS scores for admission, particularly for applicants in fields that require strong communication skills.
Conditional Admission for English Language Proficiency
UAB offers conditional admission to international students who do not meet the minimum English language requirements. Under conditional admission, students are required to enroll in UAB’s English Language Institute (ELI) to improve their English skills before beginning their academic coursework. The ELI offers intensive English language instruction to help students meet the university’s proficiency standards.
University of Alabama at Birmingham Facts
UAB is a diverse, research-intensive institution that offers a wide range of academic programs across its various colleges and schools. The university’s strengths in health sciences, engineering, business, and the arts make it a premier choice for students seeking a well-rounded education that combines academic rigor with practical experience.
General Information
- Established: 1969
- Type: Public Research University
- Location: Birmingham, Alabama
- Mascot: Blaze the Dragon
- Colors: Green and Gold
UAB is home to more than 22,000 students across its undergraduate and graduate programs. The university is especially well-known for its health-related programs, including medicine, nursing, dentistry, public health, and biomedical research. In addition to its academic programs, UAB operates one of the largest hospitals in the nation and has earned recognition for its research in areas such as neuroscience, cancer, and cardiovascular health.
Contact Information
- Website URL: www.uab.edu
- Admissions Email: admissions@uab.edu
- Phone: (205) 934-8221
- Street Address:
University of Alabama at Birmingham
1720 2nd Ave South
Birmingham, AL 35294
Undergraduate Admissions Requirements
- High School Diploma or Equivalent: Applicants must have completed high school or an equivalent program to be eligible for undergraduate admission.
- GPA: The minimum GPA for undergraduate admission is 2.75, though the average GPA of admitted students is significantly higher, typically around 3.6.
- Standardized Test Scores: UAB requires ACT or SAT scores for undergraduate admissions, though test scores may be waived for certain applicants or during specific admissions cycles.
- Application Fee: A non-refundable application fee is required to submit an application.
Graduate Admissions Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution to be eligible for admission to graduate programs.
- GPA: Most graduate programs require a minimum GPA of 3.0, with more competitive programs preferring applicants with GPAs above 3.5.
- GRE Scores: Many graduate programs require GRE scores, though some programs may waive this requirement for applicants with relevant work experience or other qualifications.
- Letters of Recommendation: Graduate applicants are typically required to submit letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
- English Proficiency: International students must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic scores to demonstrate English proficiency.