Selective50% Acceptance Rate

Chances of Getting Into Marist College

Poughkeepsie, New York Private University • #6 National • Founded 1929

Marist Admissions Statistics 2025–2026

50%
Acceptance Rate
3.55
Average GPA
1245
Average SAT
27
Average ACT
14,000+
Total Applicants
1,200
Class Size
16:1
Student-Faculty Ratio

Marist SAT & ACT Scores

SAT Scores (Middle 50%)

Score Range1160-1330
Average1245
10001600

ACT Scores (Middle 50%)

Score Range25-30
Average27
2036

About Marist College

Marist College is a private college on the banks of the Hudson River in Poughkeepsie, New York. Known for its beautiful riverside campus, strong business and communication programs, and a long-standing partnership with IBM, Marist offers a well-rounded education with emphasis on technology integration and experiential learning. Its fashion program in Florence, Italy is a unique draw.

Top Programs

BusinessCommunicationFashion DesignComputer ScienceCriminal Justice

What Makes Marist Unique

  • Stunning campus on the Hudson River with panoramic views
  • Long-standing partnership with IBM — students access cutting-edge technology resources
  • Fashion program based in Florence, Italy — a unique study abroad experience
  • Strong business and communication programs with high internship placement rates
  • Named one of the most beautiful college campuses in the U.S.

Marist Cost & Financial Aid

Cost of Attendance

Tuition$45,700/yr
Total Cost$63,500/yr
Median Earnings (10yr)$59,200/yr

Financial Aid

Students Receiving Aid90%
Avg Aid Package$22,000+
School TypePrivate

Marist Application Deadlines

Regular Decision
February 1
Early Action
November 15

How to Get Into Marist: Admission Tips

1

Apply Early Action (November 15) for priority consideration and merit aid

2

Test-optional — GPA and extracurricular involvement matter most

3

Demonstrated interest matters — visit campus or attend virtual events

4

Highlight any technology, business, or communication interests

5

Merit scholarships are generous and can significantly reduce costs

The Brutal Truth About Marist Admissions

The numbers are brutal. With a 50% acceptance rate, Marist rejected over 7,000 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.

Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At Marist, having a 3.55 GPA and 1245 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.

The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. Marist doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.

Bottom line: Apply if Marist genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 50%-acceptance-rate basket.

Marist Admissions FAQ

What is the acceptance rate at Marist College?

Marist College has an acceptance rate of 50% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 14,000+ applicants, approximately 1,200 students were admitted to the incoming class.

What GPA do I need to get into Marist?

The average GPA of admitted students at Marist College is 3.55. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.40, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.

What SAT score do I need for Marist?

The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Marist students is 1160-1330. The average SAT score is 1245. For ACT, the range is 25-30 with an average of 27.

Is Marist hard to get into?

Yes, Marist College is selective with an acceptance rate of just 50%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.

How much does Marist cost?

Tuition at Marist College is $45,700 per year, with total cost of attendance at $63,500. However, 90% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $22,000+.

What are my chances of getting into Marist?

Your chances of getting into Marist College depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 50% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.

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What Are Your Chances at Marist?

Enter your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars. Get a personalized, brutally honest assessment of your odds — plus scholarship estimates.

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