Nashville, TN, August 29, 2025
This practical guide walks Nashville residents and visitors through applying to Lipscomb University with clear, actionable steps. It covers academic targets (aim for a 3.75+ GPA), the test-optional policy with typical ACT/SAT ranges, choosing between the Lipscomb app or Common App, and collecting transcripts, recommendations, and two required essays. The guide emphasizes telling a cohesive story, demonstrating leadership and local involvement, scheduling an in-person campus visit, and applying early (noting perks before Nov 15). It also outlines financial steps like FAFSA by Feb 28 and pursuing merit scholarships to maximize aid.
Heads Up, Nashville: Your Insider Playbook for Applying to Lipscomb University
Listen up, Nashville locals and visitors who are eyeing a campus tour while you’re in town — applying to Lipscomb University is not something to wing. This guide hands you the inside scoop in plain talk, with moves you can make right now to sharpen your application and boost your chances. Think of this as the fast, no-nonsense rundown from someone who knows the city and the school.
Step 1 — Know the Numbers and Rules
If you want to be competitive, aim high. The sweet spot for high school GPA is about 3.75 or higher. Lipscomb is test-optional, which means you can skip sending SAT or ACT scores, but submitting them could give your application extra punch. The typical scores you’d see from admitted students are around an ACT 28 or an SAT 1234.
Step 2 — Pick the Right Application
You can apply through the Lipscomb application or the Common App. Either way, keep your materials organized. If you’re local in Nashville, stop by the admissions office to ask questions in person — that face time can make a difference.
Step 3 — Gather Essentials Early
- Official Transcript: Ask your counselor to send it as soon as possible.
- Letters of Recommendation: Get at least one academic reference — a teacher, principal, or counselor works. A personal recommendation from a church leader, coach, or employer can add character context.
- Application Essays: Lipscomb asks for two essays. One is about why you want to attend Lipscomb and the other is a short two-to-three sentence career goals statement. There’s also an optional extracurricular essay if you want to highlight activities.
Step 4 — Tell a Clear Story
Don’t ramble. Be specific about what draws you to Lipscomb and how your past activities connect to your future plans. If you’ve led a club, coached a youth team, or organized community service in Nashville, say so and explain the impact. Leadership beats a laundry list of activities every time.
Step 5 — Show Your Involvement
Lipscomb is looking for engaged students. Keep active in clubs, sports, volunteer work, or part-time jobs. Take on responsibilities that let you describe real results — and don’t forget to note any leadership roles. Even local Nashville projects or community initiatives count big.
Step 6 — Visit the Campus (Yes, Really)
Seeing the campus in person is smart, especially if you live in or are visiting Nashville. Schedule a tour, meet with an advisor in your program of interest, and get a feel for the culture. Ask about class size, internship connections, and campus life. Arriving prepared gives you better questions and better impressions.
Step 7 — Apply Early When You Can
Applying before November 15 has perks. It may waive your application fee and gets you an early decision timeline. If you’re juggling Nashville life or a visit, lock in your application early and reduce stress later.
Step 8 — Money Moves
Complete the FAFSA by February 28 to be considered for federal aid. Check out merit-based scholarships and other financial aid options. Don’t skip scholarship applications just because you think you won’t qualify — many awards are underused.
Final Checklist for Nashville Applicants and Visitors
- GPA: Aim for 3.75+
- Test Scores: Optional, but an ACT ~28 or SAT ~1234 can help
- Essays: Two required — why Lipscomb and short career goals
- Recs: At least one academic; consider a personal recommendation
- Visit: Schedule a campus tour and talk with advisors
- Deadlines: Apply early (before Nov 15) when possible; FAFSA by Feb 28
If you want a local tip: time your campus visit around a weekday class day so you can sense the energy between classes and chat with students. While you’re in town, make a day of it — check out a coffee shop near campus, stroll through neighborhoods, and picture yourself living here. Being in Nashville gives you the chance to turn a campus visit into a real-life audition for college life.
FAQ
Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores?
No. Lipscomb is test-optional, but submitting strong scores can help your application stand out.
What GPA should I aim for?
A competitive GPA is around 3.75 or higher.
How many recommendation letters do I need?
At least one academic recommendation is recommended. You can also add a personal recommendation from a community leader or employer.
When should I complete the FAFSA?
Complete the FAFSA by February 28 for financial aid consideration.
Should I visit campus before applying?
Yes. A campus visit helps you assess fit and gives you a chance to meet advisors and students.
What are the essay requirements?
You’ll submit two essays: why you want to attend and a short career goals statement. There’s also an optional extracurricular essay.
Is there an application fee waiver?
Applying early (before Nov 15) can often waive the application fee; check the admissions page for current policies.
Quick Visual: Key Application Features
| Feature | Importance | Visual |
|---|---|---|
| High School GPA (3.75+) | High |
|
| Test Scores (Optional) | Medium |
|
| Essays (Required) | High |
|
| Recommendations | Medium |
|
| Campus Visit & Fit | High |
|
Ready to apply? Get your documents lined up, plan a visit if you’re in Nashville, and tackle those essays like a pro. The city’s got your back — use local resources, ask questions, and make your application tell a clear, confident story.
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Author: HERE Nashville
The NASHVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENashville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Nashville, Davidson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as CMA Fest, Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, and Nashville Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce and Nashville Health Care Council, plus leading businesses in healthcare, automotive, and technology that power the local economy such as HCA Healthcare, Bridgestone Americas, and Asurion. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HEREMemphis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
