Colgate University's Student Population: A Comprehensive Overview

Colgate University is a private liberal arts college in Hamilton, New York. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of 3,131 students, with an acceptance rate of 12%. The university offers 54 bachelor's degrees, an average graduation rate of 91%, and a student-faculty ratio of 9:1. The average class size is about 16 students, and the university offers over 50 majors. The residential campus guarantees every student housing for all four years, and nearly all Colgate students live on campus.

Undergraduate enrollment: 3,131 (fall 2023)

Colgate University Undergraduate Enrollment

As of Fall 2023, there were 3,131 undergraduate students enrolled at Colgate University. This figure represents a slight increase from the previous year's undergraduate enrollment of 3,112. With an acceptance rate of just 12%, admissions to Colgate University are extremely competitive and selective. The university received 20,915 applications for the Class of 2027, of which only 2,843 were admitted, translating to an admit rate of 14%.

Colgate University is a private liberal arts college located in Hamilton, New York. Founded in 1819, the university offers over 50 majors and boasts a student-faculty ratio of 9:1, allowing students direct access to faculty experts. The rural campus spans 553 acres and guarantees housing for all four years of undergraduate study, with nearly all students living on campus.

The student body is diverse, with 26% domestic students of color, 13% first-generation college students, and 8% international students. The university also offers a robust financial aid programme, with 42% of the Class of 2027 receiving financial aid. The average total award for financial aid recipients is substantial, resulting in Colgate students graduating with lower student loan debt than the national average.

In addition to its strong academics, Colgate University provides a well-rounded college experience with over 200 student clubs and organisations, a vibrant Greek life, and 25 NCAA Division I athletic teams. The university's four-year career development plan further prepares students for success after graduation, introducing them to the extensive alumni network. Notable alumni include actor Kevin Heffernan, former United States Secretary of State Charles Evan Hughes, and American commentator Gloria Borger, among others.

Acceptance rate: 12%

Colgate University in Hamilton, New York, is a highly selective institution with an acceptance rate of just 12%. This means that for every 100 applicants, only around 12 will be offered a place.

In 2023, the university received 20,915 applications and made offers to 2,843 students (14%). The middle 50% of successful applicants scored between 1480 and 1540 in the SATs and 33-35 in the ACTs. The average GPA was 3.94 out of 4.0.

Colgate University is a small private liberal arts college with a total undergraduate enrollment of 3,131 (fall 2023). The campus covers 553 acres and the university offers over 50 majors. The average class size is about 16 students.

Tuition and fees for students are $63,904, with room and board (unlimited meals) costing an additional $17,610. The total billed costs are $87,916.

Tuition and fees: $63,904–$70,306

The tuition and fees for Colgate University for the 2024-25 academic year is $70,306. This figure includes both tuition and fees, otherwise known as the sticker price. The fees fund library services, student gym facilities, student centres, technology resources, and campus health centres. The total cost of attendance is $87,070, which includes the sticker price, as well as the cost of food and housing, books and supplies, and transportation and personal expenses. The net price, which is the average cost of the university after aid and scholarship funds are discounted from the total cost, is $22,296 for the average student receiving need-based aid.

The tuition rates differ based on the student's year and living situation. For example, first-year and sophomore students living on campus are required to enrol in the Premier meal plan, which costs $9,106. The rate is the same for Broad Street housing, apartments, and townhouses. For juniors and seniors who choose a lower-cost meal plan or do not enrol in a meal plan, the same amount will be allotted in the cost of attendance to determine financial aid eligibility.

For seniors living off campus, the student activity fee is $420, and the cost of the Premier meal plan is $9,106. For graduate students, tuition is charged per course credit at a rate of $7,765.11 per credit. The above-mentioned tuition charge is based on 3 course credit enrollment per semester.

There are additional student charges that are not included in the total billed charges, as they do not apply to all students. These include a one-time transcript fee, which was $50 for the 2024-25 academic year, and student health insurance, which was $2,088 for the same year. Students can waive the health insurance fee by providing proof of sufficient coverage.

Student-faculty ratio: 9:1

The student-faculty ratio at Colgate University is 9:1, meaning there are nine students for every one faculty member. This ratio is indicative of the university's commitment to providing a personalised educational experience for its students. With small class sizes of around 16 students on average, students benefit from direct access to faculty experts. This close-knit academic environment fosters a strong sense of community and encourages active participation in class.

The low student-faculty ratio at Colgate University promotes a highly interactive and engaging learning environment. Students have ample opportunities to engage in discussions, ask questions, and receive individualised attention from their professors. This facilitates a deeper understanding of the course material and fosters a culture of critical thinking and intellectual curiosity. The university's faculty members are world-renowned scholars and experts in their respective fields, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education.

The 9:1 student-faculty ratio also enables professors to get to know their students on a more individual level. This facilitates a more personalised approach to teaching, allowing professors to tailor their instruction methods to the unique needs and interests of their students. It also fosters a supportive and mentoring relationship between faculty and students, which can be invaluable for academic guidance, career advice, and research collaborations.

In addition to the low student-faculty ratio, Colgate University is known for its rigorous academic programmes and diverse range of courses. With over 50 majors to choose from, students can explore a variety of disciplines and pursue their intellectual passions. The university's semester-based academic calendar provides a structured framework for students to plan their studies and make the most of their time at the institution.

The benefits of the 9:1 student-faculty ratio extend beyond the classroom as well. With a tight-knit community and a strong alumni network, students have numerous opportunities for mentorship, networking, and building lifelong connections. The university's focus on fostering close relationships between students and faculty contributes to a rich and transformative educational experience that prepares graduates for success in their future endeavours.

First-year retention rate: 94%

The first-year retention rate is an important metric for any university, indicating the percentage of first-time, full-time students who return for their second year. At Colgate University, this rate stands at an impressive 94%, reflecting the university's ability to foster a positive and engaging environment for its freshmen. This rate includes only first-time students and excludes transfer students.

A high retention rate is often indicative of a university's success in creating a supportive and academically challenging environment that encourages students to continue their studies. It suggests that students are satisfied with their academic experience, campus life, and overall well-being. This rate is a testament to Colgate University's commitment to providing a high-quality education and ensuring student success.

The national average for first-to-second-year retention rates is 70.57%, with a slightly higher average of 73.51% for colleges and universities in New York. In this context, Colgate University's 94% retention rate is even more remarkable, surpassing both the national and regional averages. This places Colgate among the top institutions in terms of student satisfaction and persistence.

The high retention rate at Colgate University can be attributed to various factors, including its academic offerings, campus life, and support services. The university is known for its intellectual rigor and world-class professors, with a beautiful campus. Small class sizes allow students direct access to faculty experts, fostering a supportive and personalized learning environment. Additionally, the university offers a range of student clubs, organizations, and communities of interest, enabling students to find their niche and build a strong sense of community.

In conclusion, the 94% first-year retention rate at Colgate University highlights the university's excellence in retaining its freshmen students. This rate surpasses national and regional averages, reflecting Colgate's ability to create a compelling and supportive academic environment that encourages students to continue their educational journey. The university's dedication to providing a well-rounded and enriching experience contributes to its success in retaining a high percentage of its first-year students.

Frequently asked questions