Claremont McKenna College Admission
Claremont McKenna College Undergraduate Program
Claremont McKenna College Application

The Facts

Claremont McKenna College is small private school that is part of the larger Claremont Colleges system. The college is home to over 1,040 undergraduate students who are prepared for careers in business and public service, primarily. The college has produced a large number of CEOs and other major business leaders, and prides itself on its thorough training and preparation. The school is also known for its fantastic sciences department that works in conjunction with other schools in the Claremont system. There are many majors offered at the school; some of the most popular choices are economics, government, international relations, various sciences, and psychology. Interestingly, over 52% of Claremont students complete two or more majors!

Admission to Claremont McKenna is not terrifically competitive numerically; however, it does tend to draw many students who are accomplished with regard to both academics and extra-curricular activities. Last year, over 3,000 students applied for admission and approximately 900 students were accepted; of those, about 280 matriculated. The admitted students had an average combined SAT score ranging from 1340 to an impressive 1480, and an average comprehensive ACT score ranging from 28 to 31. Additionally, over 84% of those admitted were ranked in the top 10% of their high school graduating class with an average high school GPA of 3.9.

The school has an intimate student to faculty ratio of 8:1, and students say that their professors are remarkably accessible and are always willing to speak with students about matters both academic and personal. Many of the science professors are also involved in research projects which students are encouraged to participate in. Students say that the workload is intense, but they are dedicated, and usually quite passionate about their studies, so they don't mind being totally engrossed in them.

The Social Scene

The town of Claremont is quite cute and has some nice coffee shops, restaurants, and shops, but not much else. The area, however, is extremely safe, and students say they feel very secure walking around at any time of day or night. Claremont is only about 35 miles away from Los Angeles, so students who crave a bit more urban excitement are able to get there quite easily if they have a car, which many students do.

There are no fraternities or sororities on campus, but students don't mind one bit. They would rather indulge in the college's more quaint traditions, such as tea being served every day from 3:00-4:30 pm with treats made by the college's own staff pastry chef. Drinking isn't really a popular activity, as most students are far too occupied with studying to let themselves go wild on the weekends.

We hear the dating scene is quite pleasant; people are friendly and will take you on some creative dates. Tea, anyone?

What’s Good

“There is a real sense of community here; the town is lovely, and people aren't afraid to smile at strangers.”

“The housing is incredible! There is plenty of it, and the rooms themselves are just gorgeous and very spacious.”

“The classes are nice and small, and you get a lot of hands-on experience and one-on-one attention from your professors.”

What’s Bad

“People here tend to be obsessed with politics and current affairs. Everything turns into a debate.”

“If you aren't a public affairs or business major, there isn't a whole lot of attention on you.”

“The town tends to get really boring. If you've been to the coffee shop, you've pretty much seen it all.”

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