Overview
Union College is a moderately selective private four-year institution in Schenectady, New York. The school accepts 46.5% of applicants and enrolls 2,070 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 46.5%
- Average SAT
- 1,400
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,310–1,490
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 31
- Total Enrollment
- 2,070
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
Union College requires you to choose a specific academic department or program when you apply, making your intended major a central part of your application strategy. This trimester system school operates differently from most colleges, with students taking just three intensive courses per term rather than the typical four or five.
Your application essay should connect directly to your chosen department and explain how Union's specific resources will advance your goals. Engineering applicants can highlight the college's partnership with nearby General Electric for internships and research opportunities. Economics students might discuss the Schaffer Library's Federal Depository collection or the college's location in New York's Capital Region for finance and government connections.
Union accepts the Common Application but requires a supplemental essay asking why you want to attend. Skip generic responses about small class sizes or campus beauty. Instead, mention specific professors whose research aligns with your interests, or describe how you'll use the Minerva House system to build community around your academic passions.
The campus culture centers around academic intensity balanced with strong social connections. Greek life includes about half of students, but the college also offers themed residential communities and houses that create tight-knit groups. Students here work hard during the week and socialize heavily on weekends. You'll fit well if you want professors who know your name but also enjoy a active social scene.
Apply early decision if Union is your top choice, as this demonstrates commitment that admissions officers notice. The college also offers merit scholarships that can significantly reduce costs, so don't assume you can't afford it based on sticker price alone.
Your recommendations should come from teachers in subjects related to your intended major. If you're applying for engineering or sciences, include a math or science teacher. Liberal arts applicants should prioritize English, history, or social studies teachers who can speak to your analytical writing and critical thinking abilities.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $36,000/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $66,456
- Students Receiving Aid
- 13%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 85.3%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $88,604/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 88.7%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Union College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Union College is test-optional, meaning you can choose whether or not to submit standardized test scores with your application.
What is the application deadline for Union College?
Union College offers Early Decision I (November 15), Early Decision II (January 15), and Regular Decision (January 15) application deadlines.
Can you transfer to Union College from another school?
Union College accepts transfer students for fall and spring semesters. Transfer applicants must have completed at least one semester of college coursework.
What makes Union College's engineering programs different from other schools?
Union College combines engineering with liberal arts through its unique trimester system and requires all students to take courses across multiple disciplines.