Eugene, Oregon, or “TrackTown USA,” is a quirky and vibrant college town where world-class passion for athleticism and the outdoors collide, and the University of Oregon students thrive. The University of Oregon (UO) is home to 20,000 undergraduates, with only half of the student body hailing from Oregon. As a flagship institution that truly prioritizes the undergraduate experience, Oregon blends the high-octane energy of Big Ten Division I sports with rigorous, personalized academics. For the most ambitious students, the Clark Honors College (CHC) provides a small liberal arts environment featuring a unique four-year curriculum, exclusive research opportunities, and a required senior thesis.
Popular majors include Business Administration, Journalism, and Psychology. Beyond traditional academics, the Phil and Penny Knight Campus for Accelerating Scientific Impact acts as a billion-dollar innovation engine where undergraduates can dive into bioengineering and applied sciences, working alongside world-class researchers to turn laboratory discoveries into real-world medical solutions.
As a global epicenter for the sports industry, the University of Oregon leverages its historic connection to Nike and its legendary Hayward Field to offer students a direct pipeline into the world of sports business, product design, and athletic innovation. When students aren’t studying, you can be sure to find them rooting for the ducks!
Read on to learn more about the ducks from our chat with Dominique Blais, an Admissions Representative for the University of Oregon.
The Nest: Tell us a fun fact or about a tradition that is unique to your university.
Dom: During our football games, our lovely mascot, The Duck, is known for doing pushups equal to the number of points on the board. The record is 546 pushups during the 2023 season opener against Portland State on September 2, 2023, matching the team’s 81-7 victory.
The Nest: What is the most unique major you offer?
Dom: We have a really unique Folklore and Public Culture major, which studies cultural practices and expression throughout history. This program is one of a few major centers of folkloristic research in the US. We also have a Brewing Innovation minor for those interested in learning how to use science and engineering, history, and storytelling to teach the craft and science of brewing.
The Nest: Who is the best-fit student for your university?
Dom: Since we are such a large institution, we are a great fit for a wide variety of students! Oftentimes, we see students who are really interested in getting involved in their communities, who value sustainability and social justice, and who are looking for innovative ways to actually apply their knowledge to real life and hands-on learning experiences. And of course, it doesn’t hurt to be a football fan! In terms of location, I also find that we are a good fit for students who enjoy being outdoors – camping, swimming, hiking, kayaking, etc.
The Nest: What application plans do you offer, and how should students determine which plan is best for them?
Dom: We offer both early action and regular decision application plans. We don’t offer early decision, so none of our application plans are legally binding. I usually tell students that if they have a GPA on the lower end, it can be helpful to wait for the regular decision round so they can include first-semester senior grades for consideration. If students are interested in applying for something like our competitive Stamps scholarship, though, they will need to apply early action in order to meet the deadline for that.
The Nest: What is your best application advice for prospective students?
Dom: Logistically, I encourage students to start early! Even just creating a draft for the personal statement over the summer can help ease some stress once school resumes and deadlines start approaching. When it comes to content, I always encourage students to just be themselves! We want to see all the different aspects of who they are, not just academics. It’s nice when a student’s personality shines through while also taking the time to brag about all of their accomplishments! And of course, to always reach out to me if they have questions throughout the process. I am always more than happy to help provide guidance and understanding.
Beyond what Dom shared, here are some metrics to look at if you’re considering the University of Oregon:
- University of Oregon is on the Common Application
- Early Action: November 1, 2025
- Regular Decision: January 1, 2026
- Test-optional
- iPEDS 25th/75th percentiles:
- ACT: 23 – 30
- SAT: 1130 – 1360
- 86% Retention Rate!
By pairing world-class athletic prestige with a deeply personalized undergraduate experience, UO ensures that every “Duck” has the resources to turn their academic curiosity into a global impact.
Helping you soar sooner,
Carrie
