About Claremont McKenna College

Founded in 1946, Claremont McKenna College. is a Private college. Located in California, which is a city setting in California, the campus itself is Suburban. The campus is home to 1,347 full time undergraduate students, and 0 full time graduate students.

The Claremont McKenna College Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 9:1. There are 173 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Claremont McKenna College include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.

Quick Facts

Acceptance Rate9%
Application Deadline1-Nov
Application Fee70
SAT Range1320-1490
ACT Range31-33

Admissions at CMC are considered Most Selective, with ,8% of all applicants being admitted.

In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 5 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.

100% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 93% were in the top quarter, and 63% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.

STUDENT LIFE

We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Claremont McKenna College.

Claremont McKenna College REVIEWS

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  • How would you rate on-campus housing?

    16 Students rated on-campus housing 4.3 stars. 50 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate off-campus housing?

    13 Students rated off-campus housing 2.5 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate campus food?

    16 Students rated campus food 4.8 stars. 81 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate campus facilities?

    16 Students rated campus facilities 4.5 stars. 50 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate class size?

    16 Students rated class size 4.7 stars. 88 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate school activities?

    16 Students rated school activities 4.2 stars. 50 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate local services?

    16 Students rated local services 3.6 stars. 25 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate academics?

    16 Students rated academics 4.6 stars. 69 % gave the school a 5.0.

What's your overall opinion of Claremont McKenna College?

6 Students rated Claremont McKenna College

shengyue

Stephany

I am a first-generation college student, so coming to college in the first place was a really big deal for me. However, I have never felt more at home and comfortable, and I know I have made a great decision. People here seem very happy and they will help if you need anything. Although this is a school where most were in the top of their class, there is little to no competitive culture here; people are not afraid to help you here - students and teachers! Thinking about life after college if a HUGE thing here. If you are not interested in going to grad school right away this school is amazing. Our career services center is amazing! You can just walk in and they will help with anything from resumes to job opportunities. Diversity is something the school needs to work on. Our neighbor school, Pomona makes us look very white and I think that there needs to be more color on campus. However, everyone seems to get along with one another and racial discrimination is not an issue. Party scene: Parties always going on. There are college held parties which are fun, but the casual parties are really fun when you are with a great group of people and have a shot in you. Sometimes they can be boring depending on the music. People dont have good taste, Academics are great you get what you pay Beautiful weather Great gym Great food

Silvia

I love the academic environment, but the social scene isn't my favorite because Claremont is a big party school. Although I have friends here, I don't fit in as well because I'm not much of a party person. However, this school has an abundance of resources, research opportunities, and professors are always available for office hours.

gabriella

Claremont McKenna College is a great school if you are looking for the small school environment. The total undergraduate student body size is only 1,200 people. Although a very prestigious university, it certainly has its downfalls. For example, there is no Greek life neither at this school or at any of the other schools in the Claremont Consortium, so if Saturday night frat parties are what you had envisioned for your college, don't count on that at Claremont McKenna College. Also, it is an NCAA Division III school, so football games likely won't be an attraction at the school either, unlike many bigger, Division I school across the country. Another unattractive quality of Claremont-McKenna College is the fact that 92{6f65e1278338a62264eed73e2adc5af8e2841420db12ceb4f80b8db22f3260ec} of students stay on campus for all four years of their undergraduate degree. While this statistic does not mean that you are required to stay on campus, it does mean that most of your peers will be. Overall, Claremont McKenna College offers a world class education, but with many shortcomings in other areas of the college experience.

Claremont McKenna College FAQS

  1. What is the Acceptance Rate at Claremont McKenna College?

    The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Claremont McKenna College is 9%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020 , _____ students were offered admission. The number of males who applied was _____ vs the number of females which was _____.

  2. Describe the students at your school.

    My classmates are individuals with minds bright and creative and perspectives from which I can learn.

    Read all  27 answers
  3. What is the stereotype of students at your school?

    The stereotypes run strong, particularly amongst members of the 5 C's (CMC, Mudd, Scripps, Pomona, Pitzer). CMCers are typically stereotyped as a little "jock-y", hard-partying, but also very practical, intelligent and ambitious. A recent class T-shirt sums it up: "Claremont McKenna: We'll do whatever it takes for a keg and an internship"

    Read all  26 answers
  4. What are the academics like at your school?

    * Professors will know your name if you take the initiative to participate in class. * My favorite class was Social Neuroscience because it dealt with topics that are directly relevant to the kind of research I want to do in my career, and the professor was a wonderful facilitator of discussion. My least favorite class was Developmental Psychology because it required 3 hours a week of interning at a kindergarten. * Students study about an average amount of time compared to most schools. However, in senior year, they study well above average because of the senior thesis that is required to graduate. * Class participation is very common. In most classes, it is not only encouraged, but is worth 10{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of one's final grade. * CMC students have very deep intellectual conversations outside of class. They range from political discussions over dinner to random philosophical ponderings on Facebook walls. * CMC students are not competitive in the sense that they want to succeed at the expense of others. However, when it comes to national internships and scholarships such as Fulbright and Rhodes, CMC candidates are highly successful. * The most unique class I've taken is a seminar in Cognitive Neuroimaging. It's a class of 6 students, we've met at the professor's house to discuss papers (he was wearing gymn shorts and a t-shirt) while eating leftovers, and there is no pre-determined structure to the course. We pretty much comment at random. * The Psychology department is solid but small. Most of the research is in line with the school's interests in business/government/law/leadership, so if those topics are interesting, the department has a lot to offer. But for a well-rounded psychology experience, take courses at the other Claremont colleges. * I've had lunches and office talks with quite a few professors, plus a bowling event with the psychology faculty. Most are very personable and encourage close student-teacher relationships. * It would be nice if there were fewer GEs, but I enjoyed most of them. The required senior thesis is a plus - it pushes students to go beyond what most undergraduates would do in terms of research and writing, and the finished product is something in which we can take a lot of pride. * Education at CMC is what a student makes of it. Students can take classes for the joy of learning, or they can go the extra mile and use classroom learning to build career opportunities. It depends on how much they are willing to talk with professors outside of class, apply for internships or scholarships, and/or take career-driven courses such as accounting.

    Read all  26 answers
  5. What is your overall opinion of this school?

    * The best thing about CMC is the accessibility of professors and resources. For students who go to college to learn and develop their career interests, this is a major benefit. Take advantage of the fact that your professors know your name! * One change: stronger departments for psychology, neuroscience, and the arts. * The school is too small if one is interested in obtaining research experience in psychology. There is not a lot of active research going on because there are few professors to collaborate with, and the opportunity to co-author a paper is very small. * Most people haven't heard of CMC. This is the typical conversation: OTHER PERSON: What school do you go to? ME: Claremont OTHER PERSON: Never heard of it...where is it located? ME: East L.A. OTHER PERSON: Huh? ME: EAST L.A.! OTHER PERSON: UCLA?! ME:...(gives up) Yeah, sure. OTHER PERSON: UCLA's a great school! ME: No kidding! * I spend most of my time working in one of two research labs, or in my room studying/watching Youtube. * Claremont is lovely for families but not too hip for college kids. The village is pleasant for a Sunday walk. Bum a ride to Hollywood instead. * The administration is fantastic. The registrar is responsive, you can always get all the classes you need in 4 years, admissions is prompt, and financial aid helps you find money when you need it. * The biggest recent controversy involved the Scripps College president condemning the naming of our "White Party" as racist and anti-progressive. The Washington Post defended the title, claiming if she had read the whole flyer, she would have known it referred to the black lights in the tent that look especially radiant when you wear "white" clothes. * I don't know if there is a lot of school pride, but there are a number of people who wear CMC sweatshirts on and off campus. * CMC's business/government focus is unusual for a liberal arts college. The Atheneaum, which provides a nightly forum for speakers, is unique. * I will always remember my freshman orientation trip: canoeing through Lake Havasu while getting to know some of my classmates. * Students most frequently complain about the amount of work they have to do.

    Read all  25 answers
  6. Is the stereotype of students at your school accurate?

    * While some outspoken students seem to represent the power-hungry stereotype, the silent majority are generally not self-promoting or greedy. * The political environment only seems conservative because (1) the school is surrounded by four other colleges that are extremely liberal, and (2) the most popular departments (government, international politics, economics) tend to have conservative professors. The majority of the students are probably libertarian, believing in fiscal conservatism and social liberalism. * Yes, students do like to be practical. However, hardly anyone ever criticizes those who decide to follow their passion for the liberal arts and indulge in philosophy and history. Even students in the less practical majors are known to find ways of applying what they've learned to their careers by going to graduate school in those fields, or getting educational degrees. Besides, is there really anything impractical about getting a bachelors degree? * Some students drink beer regularly while some don't. Some are jocks and some aren't. Some girls are sexually promiscuous while others are less so. Some students come from money while others don't. These stereotypes probably came about because the students who fit them tend to be the most vocal and the most visible on campus. * While the campus has had its share of ignorant racial or anti-gay slurs, this by no means represents the general point of view of the student body. Most students are tolerant, if not embracing, of diversity. Many students promote liberal causes such as starvation relief efforts in Africa, pro-gay legislation, and green efforts.

    Read all  25 answers
  7. What are the most popular student activities/groups?

    * The most popular groups are the debate team, the Claremont Democrats, track and field, and swimming. * I preside over Psi Chi, an organization for psychology majors. We hold events where students learn about faculty research, bowl with professors, attend Dr. Phil tapings, and watch psychology-related movies. * Students in dorms leave their doors open if they're in their rooms. Otherwise we lock them. * Athletic events are mildly popular for a third division school. Guest speakers come on a regular basis, and they are very popular because students can have a banquet dinner at the Atheneaum and then hear an interesting lecture. Theater is not very popular, though students will gladly hop over to the other campuses for Rocky Horror performances. * Most students date other students from the 5Cs. Some long-distance relationships work. Random hook-ups are common and encouraged. * I met most of my closest friends within the first few weeks of freshman year. Most either lived in my dorm or were friends with people who lived in my dorm. I also met some people before school ever started, because we exchanged AIM screen names and chatted. * If I'm awake at 2am on a Tuesday, I am either doing data analysis in the computer lab or watching videos on Youtube. * Annual events: the foam party (half-naked dancing in a pool of foam), Monte Carlo (gambling and dancing to jazz music), prom, 6:01 (the first hour after the no-drinking rule ends after the first week of classes), SYR (Screw Your Roommate - hook your roommate up with a partner for a dance), a big-name musical act in February/March, the Madrigal Feast (7-course meal with choral entertainment and liquor), getting thrown in the pond on your birthday, drinking champagne in the pond after completing thesis (seniors only) * There are at least 2 parties every weekend, and many regular attendees. Beer is free and plentiful. * There are no fraternities or sororities at CMC. * Last weekend I ate out with my friends, and we drove up to the snow at Big Bear Lake. * There is live entertainment in Claremont Village on a Saturday night. Some students like to play pool, cards, or videogames. Others watch movies. Still others attend the established parties but don't drink anything. * Off campus, there are tons of things to do. Clubbing in West Hollywood is a favorite of mine. The greater L.A. area has its share of fantastic beaches, including Venice and Santa Monica. I also enjoy driving up to the mountains during snow season, or taking road trips to San Diego and Las Vegas. It's important to get off campus every once in a while to experience the real world. Claremont is not the real world.

    Read all  24 answers
  8. What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

    search carefully for your college life and study hard to get good results so that nothing to regret after graduated. Be self-motivated and keep sharing.

    Read all  18 answers
  9. Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!

    It is well balanced politicly

    Read all  11 answers
  10. Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.

    The CMC students needs to have a passion for public policy and government and want to use their education to change society or effect the professions at a high level.

    Read all  6 answers
  11. What kind of person should attend this school?

    An outgoing person looking for a perfect blend of challenging academics and an engaging social life. Someone who wants the intellectual gauntlet, and yet seeks the social support and release. A career driven individual who knows how to balance the work hard and play hard persona.

    Read all  4 answers
  12. What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?

    It is so much fun!

    Read all  4 answers
  13. What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?

    I wish I knew how much a risk is rewarded. Taking steps outside of one's comfort zone leads to the true fruits of life. I was scared to take advantage of all the fabulous, and yet new, opportunities. Jumping into the figurative cold water of the risk oriented avenues provided in the academic and career driven world of claremont mckenna pays dividends. I wish i knew this before, and that I wasn't reflecting on this out of feelings of regret.

    Read all  4 answers
  14. What kind of person should not attend this school?

    Someone who does not like to drink alcohol, or is offended by alcohol consumption and drug use. Also if the person detests small schools, this school is not for them.

    Read all  4 answers
  15. What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?

    CMC students are extraordinarily driven. Most of them have a desired career in mind upon arrival, and those that do not will more than likely adopt one soon after. The core of the student body chose CMC because they believed it would be the optimal gateway to their desired career. We like working, playing sports, partying, and markets. In short, CMC'ers are young aspiring investment bankers, lobbyists, or entrepreneurs.

    Read all  3 answers
  16. What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?

    A little too much emphasis on alcohol. Creates a need to drink

    Read all  2 answers
  17. Describe your favorite campus traditions.

    CMC is best known for its economics and government that supports conservative policies.

    Read all  2 answers
  18. What's unique about your campus?

    The options I have available after graduation.

    Read all  2 answers
  19. Why did you decide to go to this school?

    I toured a lot of colleges around the country. My older sister attends an ivy league so it was natural to start looking there. Although I saw the benefits of being at one of those universities, as soon as I stepped onto the CMC campus I knew that this was my place. The community that we have here is unsurmountable. We are considered one of the happiest colleges in America for a reason - I have honestly yet to talk to anyone who is not in love with this school. Being around such motivated but also happy students makes for a much better college experience. The weather also did not hurt.

    Read all  2 answers
  20. Tell us about your professors.

    they crush it. have had one bad professor in my time here. the average prof is pretty darn good; they are all dedicated to their students.

    Read all  1 answers
  21. Describe the dorms.

    efficient

    Read all  1 answers

Student Body

Students

49%

female

51%

male

1,347

Total Undergrad Enrollment

N/A

Total Grad Students

45%

Out-Of-State

37%

In-State

18%

International

Organizations

110

Student Organizations

N/A

Fraternities

N/A

Sororities

Housing

Yes

On-Campus Housing

85%

of students living on campus

Student Diversity

% American Indian/Alaskan Native
N/A
% Asian/Pacific Islander
10%
% Black or African-American
5%
% Hispanic/Latino
14%
% White or Caucasian
42%

TUITION & AID

All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA. Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.

50% of students attending Claremont McKenna College receive some sort of financial aid. 13% were awarded federal grants. While 29% received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.

Cost Out of State

$50,945

Tuition and fees(Out of state)

$1,200

Books and Supplies

$15,740

Room and Board

67,885

Total On Campus

Actual Cost By Income Level(W/Financial Aid)

Family Income
Cost
$0 - $30K
$11,499
$30 - $48K
$17,173
$48 - $75K
$18,096
$75 - $110K
$30,341
$110K & UP
$43,992

We use student reviews and the most current publicly available data on our school pages. As such, we don't typically remove or edit college information. Sources for school statistics and data include the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. Portions of college data include copyrighted material, which is reproduced on this website by permission of Wintergreen Orchard House, a division of Carnegie Communications. © 2009-2016 by Wintergreen Orchard House. All rights reserved.

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