Overview
Marist College is a less selective private four-year institution in Poughkeepsie, New York. The school accepts 62.9% of applicants and enrolls 5,039 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 62.9%
- Average SAT
- 1,289
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,200–1,378
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 28
- Total Enrollment
- 5,039
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
Marist College operates on rolling admissions, giving you the advantage of applying early without a strict deadline and hearing back within weeks of submitting your complete application. This system rewards prompt action, so submit your materials by November to maximize your chances and secure better financial aid.
Your application will stand out if you connect your interests to Marist's hands-on learning approach. The college partners with IBM, giving computer science students direct access to enterprise technology and internship opportunities that translate into strong post-graduation salaries. Business students work with real companies through the Center for Corporate and Professional Development. These partnerships provide concrete examples for your essays about why Marist specifically fits your goals.
The Honors Program requires a separate application and essay, but acceptance comes with priority registration, smaller classes, and study abroad scholarships. Apply even if your scores fall slightly below the typical range, as Marist considers your full academic profile and extracurricular involvement.
Campus culture centers around the Hudson Valley location, where students regularly visit nearby hiking trails and take advantage of the scenic riverfront campus. Greek life exists but doesn't dominate social life. Students tend to be professionally minded but not intensely competitive with each other. The college draws many students from the Northeast who want a campus experience without urban distractions.
Write your supplemental essays about specific opportunities you'll pursue at Marist. Mention professors by name after researching their work, or reference particular study abroad programs in their extensive international network. The fashion program offers New York City connections, while the journalism school provides internships at major media outlets.
Submit standardized test scores even though they're optional, as strong scores can help with merit scholarships. Marist awards significant aid based on academic performance, making early application even more valuable. Your high school transcript matters more than any single test score, so maintain strong grades through senior year.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $39,660/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $46,140
- Students Receiving Aid
- 15%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 79.8%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $77,819/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 89.4%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Marist College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Marist College is test-optional, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission. Students can choose whether to submit test scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Marist College?
Marist College has an Early Decision deadline of November 15 and a Regular Decision deadline of February 15. Early Action applications are due December 1.
Does Marist College accept transfer students?
Yes, Marist College accepts transfer students for both fall and spring semesters. Transfer applicants need a minimum 2.5 GPA from their previous college coursework.
What GPA do you need to get into Marist College?
Marist College does not publish a minimum GPA requirement. The middle 50% of admitted students typically have strong academic records with mostly A's and B's in college preparatory courses.