Overview
McPherson College is a less selective private four-year institution in McPherson, Kansas. The school accepts 65.9% of applicants and enrolls 786 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.9%
- Average SAT
- 1,014
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 908–1,120
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 20
- Total Enrollment
- 786
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
McPherson College operates on rolling admissions, so apply early in your senior year for the best financial aid opportunities and housing selection. Your application goes directly to admissions officers who make decisions quickly, often within two weeks of receiving complete materials.
The automotive restoration program draws students worldwide and sets McPherson apart from other small Kansas colleges. If you're interested in this nationally recognized program, mention specific aspects like the concours-level restorations or partnerships with major auto manufacturers in your essays. The college also offers strong programs in technology, education, and business that benefit from small class sizes and hands-on learning.
Your essay should connect your goals to McPherson's close-knit environment. Write about how you'll use the low student-to-faculty ratio or describe specific ways you'll contribute to campus life. Admissions officers want to see that you understand what makes a 700-student campus different from larger universities.
McPherson fits students who want professors to know their names and career goals. The campus culture centers around personal relationships between students and faculty. You'll find study groups in residence halls and professors who invite classes to their homes. Greek life exists but doesn't dominate social scenes.
Submit your FAFSA early since McPherson awards significant merit and need-based aid on a first-come basis. The college meets demonstrated financial need for most students through a combination of grants, scholarships, and work-study programs.
Your high school involvement matters more than leadership titles. Admissions officers prefer sustained participation in activities over resume padding. If you played the same sport for four years or volunteered consistently at one organization, highlight that commitment.
Schedule a campus visit if possible. McPherson tracks demonstrated interest, and visiting shows you're serious about attending. Tour the automotive facilities even if you're not majoring in restoration - they showcase the college's commitment to hands-on education across all programs.
Letters of recommendation from teachers who can speak to your character and work ethic carry significant weight. Choose recommenders who know you well rather than those with impressive titles.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $24,837/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $35,162
- Students Receiving Aid
- 34%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 52.0%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $52,084/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 64.7%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does McPherson College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
McPherson College accepts both SAT and ACT scores for admission. Test scores are considered as part of the application review process along with high school GPA and other factors.
What is the application deadline for McPherson College?
McPherson College operates on a rolling admissions basis, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. Students should apply early to secure housing and financial aid opportunities.
Can transfer students apply to McPherson College?
McPherson College accepts transfer students and evaluates credits from regionally accredited institutions. Transfer applicants must submit official transcripts from all previously attended colleges.
Does McPherson College offer early admission programs?
McPherson College does not offer early decision or early action programs. The college uses rolling admissions, allowing students to apply and receive decisions throughout the admissions cycle.