Overview
Ithaca College is a less selective private four-year institution in Ithaca, New York. The school accepts 75.2% of applicants and enrolls 4,350 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 75.2%
- Average SAT
- 1,292
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,203–1,380
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 30
- Total Enrollment
- 4,350
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Apply through the Common Application with your high school transcript, one letter of recommendation, and either SAT or ACT scores. Ithaca College offers both Early Decision (November 1) and Regular Decision (February 1) deadlines, with Early Decision providing a slight admissions advantage and binding commitment.
The School of Music, Theatre, and Dance requires auditions or portfolios for most programs, making these significantly more competitive than the college's overall admission process. Physical therapy and occupational therapy programs also maintain higher selectivity due to limited enrollment capacity. Business programs, while popular, remain accessible through the standard application process.
Submit your housing application immediately after acceptance since Ithaca College guarantees housing for all four years but assigns rooms by application date. First-year students live in traditional residence halls on South Hill, with upperclassmen moving to apartment-style housing in the Circles or Garden Apartments.
The campus sits on a steep hill overlooking Cayuga Lake, so pack appropriate winter gear and comfortable walking shoes. The Ithaca Transit system connects campus to downtown Ithaca and Cornell University. New students attend a week-long orientation program called "New Student Days" that includes academic advising, course registration, and social activities.
Financial aid decisions arrive with admission letters, and the college typically meets a substantial portion of demonstrated need through grants rather than loans. Submit your FAFSA by February 1 to maximize aid consideration, even if applying Regular Decision.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $32,965/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $50,510
- Students Receiving Aid
- 19%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 74.1%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $63,548/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 83.4%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Ithaca College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Ithaca College is test-optional, meaning you can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores with your application.
What is the application deadline for Ithaca College?
Ithaca College has a regular decision deadline of February 1. Early decision applications are due November 1.
Does Ithaca College accept transfer students?
Yes, Ithaca College accepts transfer students for fall and spring semesters. Transfer applicants need at least 12 college credits and must submit college transcripts.
What are the strongest academic programs at Ithaca College?
Ithaca College is known for its rehabilitation and therapeutic professions programs, computer science, and accounting programs. The school also has a strong reputation in communications and music.