Overview
Thomas Aquinas College is a accessible private four-year institution in Santa Paula, California. The school accepts 84.7% of applicants and enrolls 539 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 84.7%
- Average SAT
- 1,315
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,220–1,410
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 30
- Total Enrollment
- 539
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
Thomas Aquinas College operates on a rolling admissions basis, so you can submit your application anytime between September and March for fall enrollment. You need to complete the Common Application along with the college's supplemental essays, which focus on your interest in the Great Books curriculum and Catholic intellectual tradition.
The college requires official transcripts, two letters of recommendation (preferably from teachers in core academic subjects), and either SAT or ACT scores. No subject tests or portfolios are needed. Your application fee is waived if you apply online.
Every student follows the same curriculum built around reading primary texts from Homer to Einstein, so there are no competitive majors to worry about. The college awards only one degree: Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts. This means your course selection is predetermined, and you'll take classes like Euclidean geometry, music theory, and Aristotelian logic alongside every other student.
Housing is guaranteed for all four years on the Santa Paula campus, which sits on 131 acres in Ventura County. Most students live in residence halls throughout their time there. The college also operates a second campus in Northfield, Massachusetts, so specify your preferred location when applying.
Orientation includes placement in Latin and mathematics, since these are core curriculum requirements regardless of your background. Don't worry if you've never studied Latin before - the college expects varying preparation levels. Your tutor (what the college calls professors) will guide you through the Socratic discussion method used in all classes, which replaces traditional lectures.
The college's Catholic identity shapes campus life significantly. Daily Mass is available, and the curriculum integrates faith and reason throughout. You don't need to be Catholic to apply or attend, but understanding this academic and spiritual environment helps you decide if it's the right fit.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $25,032/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $28,700
- Students Receiving Aid
- 20%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 82.0%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $55,619/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 92.1%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Thomas Aquinas College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Thomas Aquinas College requires either SAT or ACT scores for admission. The school does not have a test-optional policy.
What is the application deadline for Thomas Aquinas College?
Thomas Aquinas College has rolling admissions with no set application deadline. Students are encouraged to apply early for the best chance at housing and financial aid.
Does Thomas Aquinas College accept transfer students?
Thomas Aquinas College accepts transfer students but requires them to complete at least two full years at the college. Transfer credits are limited due to the school's integrated curriculum structure.
What makes Thomas Aquinas College's admissions process different from other schools?
Thomas Aquinas College uses a Great Books curriculum with no electives or majors. All students follow the same four-year program focused on classical liberal arts education through primary texts.