Overview
Occidental College is a selective private four-year institution in Los Angeles, California. The school accepts 39.4% of applicants and enrolls 1,844 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 39.4%
- Average SAT
- 1,440
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,370–1,510
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 33
- Total Enrollment
- 1,844
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
Occidental College wants to see how you connect academic interests with real-world impact, especially through their signature programs like the Campaign Semester in Washington D.C. or the United Nations Program in New York. Your essays should highlight specific ways you plan to use Occidental's location in Los Angeles and their extensive alumni network in entertainment, politics, and social justice.
The application includes a supplemental essay asking why you chose Occidental specifically. Don't write generically about small liberal arts colleges. Instead, mention particular professors whose research aligns with your interests, or describe how you'd contribute to specific campus organizations like the KOXY radio station or the various cultural centers.
Your application will stand out if you show genuine intellectual curiosity combined with social awareness. Occidental students tend to be politically engaged and socially conscious, so admissions officers want to see evidence that you think critically about societal issues. Highlight volunteer work, activism, or research that connects to broader social questions.
The campus culture attracts students who are academically serious but not competitive with each other. You'll fit well if you enjoy small seminar discussions, want close relationships with professors, and prefer collaboration over cutthroat competition. Students here often double major or create interdisciplinary studies, so show how your interests span multiple fields.
Apply early decision if Occidental is your top choice, as this school cares deeply about demonstrated interest. Visit campus if possible, attend virtual information sessions, and connect with current students through social media. The admissions office tracks engagement, so genuine interest in the school matters more than perfect test scores.
Your recommendation letters should come from teachers who can speak to your ability to contribute meaningfully to class discussions and think independently. Occidental professors expect students to challenge ideas respectfully and bring diverse perspectives to academic conversations. Choose recommenders who have seen you do exactly that.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $39,329/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $63,446
- Students Receiving Aid
- 16%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 85.1%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $75,951/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 87.2%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Occidental College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Occidental College is test-optional, meaning you can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. If your scores strengthen your application, you should include them.
What is the application deadline for Occidental College?
Occidental College offers Early Decision I (November 15), Early Decision II (January 1), and Regular Decision (January 15). Early Decision is binding if you are accepted.
Can you transfer to Occidental College from a community college?
Yes, Occidental College accepts transfer students from community colleges and four-year institutions. Transfer applications are due March 15 for fall admission.
What GPA do you need to get into Occidental College?
Occidental College does not publish a minimum GPA requirement. Most admitted students have strong academic records with challenging coursework including AP, IB, or honors classes.