Student selectivity factors include SAT and ACT scores, the proportion of enrolled freshmen who graduated in the top 25 percent of their high school classes, the acceptance rate, and the ratio of students who enroll to those admitted. According to U.S. News, the overall ranking system rests on two pillars. First, it relies on quantitative measures that education experts have proposed as reliable indicators of academic quality. Second, the rankings are based on their nonpartisan views of what matters in education. We are certainly pleased that Harding's academic program compares very favorably with the best schools in the nation.
Academic excellence is definitely one of our goals.
National college rankings can measure statistical data, but they are unable to measure the unique spiritual mission that is another of Harding's goals. It is this mission that for 76 years has set Harding apart from other schools and made the university very distinctive in higher education circles. Harding's academic year began Aug. 22 with an enrollment of approximately 4,600.