Overview
Scripps College is a selective private four-year institution in Claremont, California. The school accepts 27.9% of applicants and enrolls 1,077 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 27.9%
- Average SAT
- 1,450
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,390–1,510
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 33
- Total Enrollment
- 1,077
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
Scripps College admissions officers read for intellectual curiosity expressed through genuine academic interests, not resume padding. Your essays should reference specific professors whose research excites you, the Core Curriculum's interdisciplinary humanities sequence, or how you plan to use the Claremont Colleges consortium to cross-register at Harvey Mudd for physics or Pomona for economics.
The application requires a supplemental essay asking how you'll contribute to Scripps' community. Don't write generically about diversity or leadership. Instead, connect your specific experiences to concrete campus traditions like Tea at Four, the campus rose garden, or student-run organizations like SCORE (Scripps College Outdoor Recreation and Education).
Your intellectual engagement matters more than perfect grades. Scripps faculty teach small seminars and expect students who participate actively in class discussions. Admissions readers want evidence you can handle the Core Curriculum's demanding writing requirements and think critically across disciplines.
Don't apply thinking Scripps is easier to get into because it's a women's college. The admissions committee looks for students who specifically want a women's college experience and understand how that shapes classroom actives and campus culture. Generic applications that could apply anywhere get rejected.
The school offers Early Decision, which provides an advantage if Scripps is genuinely your first choice. Your demonstrated interest through campus visits, interviews, or detailed knowledge of specific programs carries weight in admissions decisions.
Psychology majors should know that Scripps emphasizes research opportunities with faculty and preparation for graduate school, not just general psychology coursework. The Joint Science Department with Claremont McKenna and Pitzer offers unique interdisciplinary research possibilities.
Your recommendation letters should come from teachers who know your thinking process, not just your work ethic. Scripps professors value students who ask thoughtful questions and challenge ideas respectfully in seminar-style classes.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $38,802/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $63,434
- Students Receiving Aid
- 11%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 87.1%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $77,539/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 88.1%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Scripps College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Scripps College is test-optional for most applicants. Students can choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
What are the application deadlines for Scripps College?
Scripps offers Early Decision I (November 15), Early Decision II (January 1), and Regular Decision (January 1) application deadlines. Early Decision is binding if admitted.
Can transfer students apply to Scripps College?
Yes, Scripps accepts transfer students for fall and spring semesters. Transfer applicants must have completed at least one semester of college coursework.
Is Scripps College part of the Claremont Colleges consortium?
Yes, Scripps is one of the five undergraduate Claremont Colleges. Students can cross-register for classes and access resources at all consortium schools.