Claremont McKenna College Admission Chances
Quick answer
Claremont McKenna College in Claremont, CA admits about 10% of applicants (admitted students score 1470–1560 on the SAT, middle 50%), making it a highly selective reach for nearly every applicant for most students. Your real odds depend on your GPA, test scores, and intended major — estimate them free in about 15 seconds below.
Key facts
- Acceptance rate
- 10%
- SAT (mid-50%)
- 1470–1560
- Test policy
- Test-optional
- In-state tuition
- $67,980
- Out-of-state tuition
- $67,980
- Avg. net price
- $28,849
- Undergrads
- 1,388
- Setting
- Suburban
- Location
- Claremont, CA
Is Claremont McKenna College a reach for you?
Estimated admission chance by applicant profile, from the same engine FalconPrep uses to build your list. Estimates — your real odds depend on your full profile, major, and residency.
| Applicant | SAT / GPA | Verdict | Est. chance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below average | 1150 / 3.3 | Reach | 0% |
| Average | 1300 / 3.6 | Reach | 0% |
| Above average | 1400 / 3.8 | Reach | 2% |
| Strong | 1520 / 3.9 | Reach | 7% |
Should you apply to Claremont McKenna College?
- →If your SAT is above 1560 and your GPA is strong (roughly 3.9+), Claremont McKenna College is a realistic target — apply, and consider an early round if it's your clear first choice.
- →If your SAT falls within its 1470–1560 middle 50%, treat Claremont McKenna College as a reach worth taking — balance it with solid target and safety schools.
- →If your SAT is below 1470, Claremont McKenna College is a long-shot reach: apply only if it's a genuine fit, and lead your list with stronger matches.
Weighing fit? Compare Claremont McKenna College with University of Southern California, United States Naval Academy, New York University.
Calculate your real chances at Claremont McKenna College
Enter your GPA and scores — get your estimated admission chance plus a full reach / target / safety list. Free, no account.
Calculate my chances →Or use the free college acceptance calculator for a quick single-school estimate.
Early admission at Claremont McKenna College
Claremont McKenna College offers these early-application options. Applying early can boost your odds — confirm exact deadlines on Claremont McKenna College's admissions site.
| Early Decision | Binding — you must enroll if admitted. Historically the biggest admit-rate boost; use it on your true first choice. |
| Early Decision II | Binding, later deadline — a second binding shot if your ED school rejects/defers you. |
Claremont McKenna College admissions FAQ
Can I get into Claremont McKenna College?
Claremont McKenna College is highly selective — it admits about 10% of applicants — so it's a reach even for strong students. Excellent grades, scores, and a standout application matter most. Admitted students typically score 1470–1560 on the SAT (middle 50%). Calculate your specific odds with the free chances calculator below.
What are my chances of getting into Claremont McKenna College?
Your chances of getting into Claremont McKenna College depend on your GPA, test scores, intended major, and residency. The table above estimates admission chances by applicant profile, and the free calculator gives you a personalized reach / target / safety read in about 15 seconds — no account needed.
Should I apply to Claremont McKenna College?
Apply to Claremont McKenna College if your SAT is at or above its 1470–1560 middle-50% range and your GPA is strong — it's a realistic target then. If you're below that range it's a reach: apply only if it's a genuine fit, and balance it with target and safety schools. Estimate your exact odds with the free calculator below.
Is Claremont McKenna College a reach school?
Yes — with a roughly 10% acceptance rate, Claremont McKenna College is a reach for most applicants.
What SAT score do you need for Claremont McKenna College?
Admitted students at Claremont McKenna College typically score between 1470 and 1560 on the SAT (the middle 50%). A score above 1560 strengthens your odds.
What is Claremont McKenna College's acceptance rate?
Claremont McKenna College accepts approximately 10% of applicants.
Does Claremont McKenna College offer Early Decision or Early Action?
Claremont McKenna College offers Early Decision and Early Decision II. Early Decision is binding — apply only if it is your clear first choice, as it historically gives the biggest admission boost. Always confirm deadlines on Claremont McKenna College's admissions site.
Figures are drawn from public data (U.S. Department of Education / IPEDS and college admissions data) and reviewed regularly. Always confirm current numbers and deadlines on Claremont McKenna College's official admissions site.