Overview
St Lawrence University is a less selective private four-year institution in Canton, New York. The school accepts 63.5% of applicants and enrolls 2,040 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 63.5%
- Average SAT
- 1,325
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,240–1,410
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 31
- Total Enrollment
- 2,040
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
St. Lawrence University requires the Common Application plus a school-specific supplement that asks you to describe your academic interests and explain why St. Lawrence fits your goals. Your response should mention specific professors, courses, or research opportunities that align with your intended major.
The supplement also includes an optional diversity essay where you can discuss how your background would contribute to campus life. Use this space to highlight experiences that aren't covered elsewhere in your application, particularly if you have connections to the North Country region or experience with rural communities.
Strong applicants highlight their fit with St. Lawrence's close-knit academic environment by discussing specific programs like the First-Year Program, where all students take small seminars with faculty mentors, or the university's extensive study abroad offerings in over 20 countries. If you're interested in environmental studies, mention the university's sustainable campus initiatives and the nearby Adirondack Park research opportunities.
The campus culture centers around outdoor recreation and tight faculty-student relationships. Students who succeed here enjoy activities like hiking, skiing, and participating in the university's outing club traditions. Greek life exists but doesn't dominate social life, and many students find their community through residential colleges or academic programs.
Your essays should reflect genuine interest in a small college experience where you'll know your professors personally and collaborate closely with classmates. Don't write generically about wanting "small classes" - instead, reference specific courses or faculty research that excites you.
Apply early decision if St. Lawrence is your top choice, as the university enrolls a significant portion of its class through this binding option. The application deadline is January 15 for regular decision, giving you time to craft thoughtful responses that show you understand what makes this Adirondack campus distinctive.
Your recommendation letters should emphasize your ability to contribute to a collaborative academic environment and your readiness for the independence that comes with attending college in a small town setting.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $30,561/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $63,870
- Students Receiving Aid
- 21%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 79.7%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $67,258/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 86.1%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does St Lawrence University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
St Lawrence University is test-optional, meaning you can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores with your application.
What is the application deadline for St Lawrence University?
St Lawrence University offers Early Decision with a November 15 deadline and Regular Decision with a February 1 deadline.
Can you transfer to St Lawrence University as a sophomore or junior?
Yes, St Lawrence University accepts transfer students for fall and spring semesters. Transfer applicants need a minimum 2.5 GPA from their previous college.
Does St Lawrence University offer Early Decision or Early Action?
St Lawrence University offers binding Early Decision with a November 15 deadline. They do not offer Early Action.