How does admissions selectivity compare between Villanova and Temple?

Villanova is generally harder to gain admission to than Temple on an overall, university-wide basis. It attracts a more academically selective applicant pool and tends to admit a smaller share of applicants, so strong grades and a rigorous high school schedule are especially important. Temple is still a competitive public research university, but its admissions bar is typically more accessible across the institution.

A student whose record is near the top of their high school class, with demanding coursework and consistently strong academic performance, may view Villanova as the more selective option in this comparison. Villanova’s private, Catholic university setting and smaller undergraduate environment also draw many applicants looking for that particular experience, which adds to competition.

Temple may fit students seeking a large urban university in Philadelphia, broad academic offerings, and somewhat more flexibility in the admissions process. That does not mean admission is automatic: applicants still need a solid academic record, and some Temple programs can be more competitive than the university overall.

For planning purposes, it makes sense to treat Villanova as the higher-reach school and Temple as the comparatively less selective choice. Your own chances at either school will still depend on your transcript, course rigor, activities, writing, and the program to which you apply.