Overview
Lafayette College is a selective private four-year institution in Easton, Pennsylvania. The school accepts 33.6% of applicants and enrolls 2,746 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 33.6%
- Average SAT
- 1,405
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,330–1,480
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 32
- Total Enrollment
- 2,746
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
Lafayette College's engineering programs consistently produce high-earning graduates, making them worth highlighting in your application if you have genuine interest and relevant experience. The college's ABET-accredited engineering divisions, particularly chemical and electrical engineering, benefit from strong industry connections in the Northeast corridor and hands-on research opportunities starting freshman year.
Your application should emphasize specific academic interests rather than general enthusiasm. Lafayette admits students who can articulate why they want to study at a small liberal arts college with strong pre-professional programs. If you're interested in their distinctive engineering and liberal arts combination, explain how you plan to use both sides of this education.
The Marquis Fellowship program offers full scholarships to strong students committed to leadership and service. Apply by December 15 if you want consideration for this highly competitive opportunity. Lafayette also offers early decision with a January 15 deadline, which can boost your admission chances if the school is your clear first choice.
Campus culture centers around close professor-student relationships and collaborative learning. Class sizes average 20 students, so you cannot hide in large lectures. Students who succeed here participate actively in discussions and seek help when needed. The Honor Code creates a framework of academic trust that shapes daily interactions.
Lafayette's location in Easton provides internship access to both New York City and Philadelphia while maintaining a traditional college town atmosphere. Greek life influences social culture significantly, with about 40% of students joining fraternities or sororities. If Greek organizations don't appeal to you, consider whether you'll find your community among the remaining students.
Your essays should reference specific Lafayette opportunities rather than generic college experiences. Mention particular professors whose research interests you, unique courses in their curriculum, or how you'd contribute to campus organizations. The supplemental essay typically asks why Lafayette fits your goals, so research their academic departments thoroughly and connect their offerings to your specific career plans.
Don't underestimate Lafayette's selectivity. Strong applicants demonstrate sustained achievement in challenging courses and meaningful extracurricular involvement, not just high test scores.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $32,496/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $62,574
- Students Receiving Aid
- 10%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 88.1%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $91,410/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 92.1%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Lafayette College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Lafayette College is test-optional, meaning SAT and ACT scores are not required for admission. Students can choose whether to submit test scores as part of their application.
Does Lafayette College offer Early Decision or Early Action?
Lafayette College offers Early Decision I (deadline November 15) and Early Decision II (deadline January 15). Both are binding admission options that require students to commit to attending if accepted.
What is the transfer application deadline for Lafayette College?
Lafayette College accepts transfer applications for fall semester with a deadline of April 1. Transfer students can apply for spring admission with a November 1 deadline.
What are Lafayette College's strongest academic programs?
Lafayette College is particularly known for its engineering programs, including chemical, electrical, and mechanical engineering. The college also has strong programs in mathematics and other STEM fields.