Understanding the St. Lawrence Acceptance Rate
St. Lawrence University, a leading liberal arts institution in Canton, New York, boasts a selective admissions process. The university’s acceptance rate is an important metric that indicates the competitiveness of its admissions and the overall quality of its applicant pool.

Historical Acceptance Rates
Over the past decade, St. Lawrence’s acceptance rate has remained relatively stable, averaging around 28%. In recent years, the rate has fluctuated slightly, as seen in the following breakdown:
| Year | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
| 2012 | 30.2% |
| 2013 | 28.9% |
| 2014 | 27.6% |
| 2015 | 29.3% |
| 2016 | 28.2% |
| 2017 | 27.9% |
| 2018 | 28.4% |
| 2019 | 28.7% |
| 2020 | 27.8% |
| 2021 | 28.3% |
Factors Influencing Acceptance Rates
Several factors contribute to St. Lawrence’s acceptance rate, including:
- Applicant Pool: The number and quality of applicants applying to St. Lawrence each year directly impact the acceptance rate.
- Admissions Criteria: St. Lawrence considers a range of factors in its admissions decisions, including academic performance, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities.
- Institutional Priorities: The university’s mission and values influence its admissions criteria and, consequently, the acceptance rate.
Trends and Future Outlook
St. Lawrence’s acceptance rate is projected to remain relatively stable in the coming years. However, the university continues to attract a highly competitive applicant pool, making admission highly selective.
Tips for Applying to St. Lawrence
To increase your chances of admission to St. Lawrence, prospective students should:
- Excel academically: Maintain a strong GPA and demonstrate academic excellence in challenging courses.
- Engage in extracurricular activities: Participate in activities that showcase your leadership, teamwork, and community involvement.
- Write a compelling personal statement: Articulate your reasons for attending St. Lawrence and highlight your unique qualities.
- Prepare thoroughly for the SAT or ACT: Aim for high scores on standardized tests to demonstrate your academic abilities.
- Apply early: Early Decision and Early Action programs offer an advantage if you are confident in your application.
Additional Information
Application Deadlines:
- Early Decision I: November 1
- Early Decision II: January 1
- Regular Decision: February 1
Tuition and Fees:
- For the 2022-2023 academic year, undergraduate tuition and fees total $55,968.
Financial Aid:
- St. Lawrence offers a range of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
- Approximately 90% of St. Lawrence students receive some form of financial assistance.
Campus Life:
- St. Lawrence’s campus is home to over 2,000 students from diverse backgrounds.
- The university offers a vibrant student life with over 100 clubs and organizations.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is St. Lawrence’s average GPA requirement?
St. Lawrence does not have a specific GPA requirement, but admitted students typically have GPAs above 3.5.
2. Is St. Lawrence test-optional?
No, St. Lawrence requires all applicants to submit SAT or ACT scores.
3. What is St. Lawrence’s early decision acceptance rate?
St. Lawrence’s early decision acceptance rate is typically higher than its regular decision rate, with over 50% of early decision applicants being admitted.
4. Does St. Lawrence offer merit scholarships?
Yes, St. Lawrence offers a range of merit scholarships based on academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and other factors.
5. What is St. Lawrence’s class size?
St. Lawrence’s average class size is 18 students, providing a personalized and supportive learning environment.
6. What is St. Lawrence’s retention rate?
St. Lawrence’s retention rate is over 90%, indicating high student satisfaction and academic success.
Conclusion
St. Lawrence University’s acceptance rate, while selective, remains stable around 28%. By understanding the factors that influence the acceptance rate and following the tips provided in this article, prospective students can increase their chances of admission to this prestigious institution. With its rigorous academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to financial aid, St. Lawrence offers a transformative educational experience for students.
