A straight answer: 9.6% acceptance rate.
This means for every 100 applicants, only 10 actually get in. No guessing. Claremont McKenna College is a COMP institution located in Claremont, CA — competition varies by program, but this is the official average.
Who Actually Gets In? (Men vs Women)
Quick breakdown so you get the real picture:
Men
Women
If you think one gender has an edge — the data tells what’s up.
Applications vs Admits: The Funnel That Matters
This is where the reality hits:
Yield Rate: N/A
This shows how many admitted students choose Claremont McKenna College. High yield = high confidence. Low yield = students had better options.
What Scores Do You Need?
If you're applying without knowing what scores to aim for… that’s how rejection letters happen.
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Aim for the 75th percentile if you want peace of mind.
What Students Miss When Looking at the Claremont McKenna College Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at Claremont McKenna College is one of the most searched admissions metrics, yet it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Many students treat it as a pass-or-fail indicator, when it’s really just a summary of past outcomes.
An acceptance rate of 9.6% blends together thousands of decisions made across different programs and applicant profiles. That makes it informative at a high level, but unreliable for predicting individual chances.
Acceptance Rates Reflect Applicant Behavior
Acceptance rates rise or fall largely based on who applies. When a university attracts more applicants who are still exploring options, acceptance rates tend to increase—even if academic standards stay consistent.
At Claremont McKenna College, demand varies across departments, meaning selectivity isn’t evenly distributed. This is why some applicants experience a more competitive process than others.
How to Read Acceptance Rates More Accurately
Instead of focusing on whether the acceptance rate is “high” or “low,” applicants should ask how it applies to them. Academic background, intended major, and preparation level all shape admissions outcomes.
Viewed this way, the acceptance rate at Claremont McKenna College becomes a planning reference—not a judgment.
Admissions Insight
Holistic Admissions? Or Score-Centric?
Some colleges love essays and activities. Some love high numbers.
Your Chances of Getting Into Claremont McKenna College
Let’s keep it real:
- ✅ Great scores + strong extracurriculars → Solid chance
- 🔶 Good scores + average profile → Toss-up
- ❌ Below 25th percentile → You’re relying on miracles
If you’re international, competition goes up a notch. If you're applying to CS, Business, or Engineering → multiply difficulty by 2.
What's my real shot?
Acceptance Odds Estimator
Estimate your admission probability at Claremont McKenna College based on your unique profile.
Pro Tip: Many more factors influence admission. For a deeper analysis that includes major, essays, and personal context — use Orbit's values-based matching.
Try Right Fit MatcherWhat Prospective Students Should Take Away from Admissions Data
At some point, admissions research needs to turn into decisions. Numbers alone don’t make that easier—but interpretation does. For students considering Claremont McKenna College, the most important takeaway is not whether admissions are competitive in general, but whether the school aligns with their goals and preparation.
Admissions data reflects past cycles, not future guarantees. Changes in applicant interest, program demand, and institutional priorities all influence outcomes year to year.
Turning Information into Confidence
Students who use admissions data as context rather than judgment tend to feel more confident in their application strategies. They understand where competition may be stronger, where they are well-positioned, and how to balance ambition with realism.
If Claremont McKenna College fits your academic direction and learning preferences, then admissions data should guide preparation—not discourage effort. The most successful applicants are often those who focus less on perceived difficulty and more on fit and readiness.
Should You Apply to Claremont McKenna College?
If 9.6% feels scary — that’s the point. High stakes → high payoff.
- Will I be a standout here?
- Do I like the vibe?
- Can I afford it? (Check scholarship opportunities)
- Is this my best-fit major here?
Explore Claremont McKenna College
Jump to related stats for this same university.
FAQs About Claremont McKenna College Acceptance Rate
What is CMC’s policy on standardized tests?
Claremont McKenna College has adopted a test-optional policy, which will be extended through the Fall 2027 admission cycle. Students may choose whether to submit standardized test scores.
If I take a test, should I submit my score?
Students may submit test scores if they believe these enhance their application. However, CMC will review applications without these scores, emphasizing a holistic review process.
When will CMC return to test-required admissions?
Claremont McKenna College plans to revert to a test-required policy for the Fall 2028 admission cycle. Students should prepare for possible changes in application requirements.
Is testing access an issue for CMC applications?
While Claremont McKenna College acknowledges disparities in testing access, its test-optional policy aims to mitigate this issue and ensure a more equitable application process.
Does CMC superscore SAT or ACT?
Claremont McKenna College does superscore both the SAT and ACT. This means they will consider the highest scores from multiple test dates during the evaluation process.
Final Verdict: Don’t Play It Casual
Claremont McKenna College isn’t a lottery — but it sure feels like one if you apply blind.
Know where you stand. Play strengths. Show why you belong.
Unlock Your Best Shot with Orbit
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