Overview
Wagner College is a less selective private four-year institution in Staten Island, New York. The school accepts 68.5% of applicants and enrolls 1,579 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 68.5%
- Average SAT
- 1,190
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,090–1,290
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 27
- Total Enrollment
- 1,579
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
Wagner College operates on rolling admissions, so apply early in the fall to maximize your chances and scholarship opportunities. The school admits students through December, but your best shot at merit aid comes with applications submitted by November.
Your application essay should highlight specific connections to Wagner's location on Staten Island. The campus sits on a hill overlooking New York Harbor, and many students use internships and job opportunities in Manhattan while enjoying a traditional college campus experience. Write about how you plan to use both the intimate campus setting and proximity to New York City for your academic and career goals.
Wagner's nursing program stands out as particularly competitive and well-regarded, with graduates earning strong salaries immediately after graduation. If you're applying to nursing, emphasize any healthcare experience, volunteer work in medical settings, or science research you've completed. The program includes clinical rotations at major New York area hospitals.
The Honors Program requires a separate application with additional essays and typically attracts students with stronger academic credentials. Honors students get priority registration, smaller seminar classes, and special housing options. Apply even if your test scores fall slightly below the typical range, as the program considers your full academic profile.
Campus culture centers around small class sizes and close professor relationships. Students who prefer large lecture halls and anonymity won't find their fit here. You'll know most people in your major by graduation, and professors will know your name from day one. This environment works best for students who participate actively in class discussions and seek mentorship from faculty.
Wagner's theatre program benefits from the New York location, with students regularly auditioning for professional productions and internships. Business students can access Wall Street internships while living on a traditional college campus. Mention these specific geographic advantages in your application materials.
Submit your application with all materials complete rather than sending pieces separately. Wagner reviews applications as complete packages, and missing transcripts or recommendation letters can delay your decision. The admissions office processes applications quickly once everything arrives, often providing decisions within a few weeks during rolling admission periods.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $27,733/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $52,000
- Students Receiving Aid
- 23%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 68.1%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $74,360/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 81.7%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Wagner College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Wagner College has adopted a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Wagner College?
Wagner College offers rolling admissions, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received until enrollment targets are met. Students should apply early for the best consideration and housing options.
Does Wagner College offer Early Decision or Early Action programs?
Wagner College offers Early Decision I with a November 15 deadline and Early Decision II with a January 15 deadline. Both are binding programs that require students to commit if accepted.
How many transfer credits will Wagner College accept?
Wagner College typically accepts up to 64 transfer credits from community colleges and up to 90 credits from four-year institutions. All transfer credits must be from regionally accredited schools with grades of C or better.