Non-Profit Private
Accredited · Higher Learning Commission
Adrian, Michigan
68.4% Acceptance Rate
Adrian College — Admission Snapshot 2026
A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application
68.4%Acceptance Rate
3.2Avg GPA
1030Avg SAT
22Avg ACT
$54,950Annual Cost
$55,504Grad Salary
31.1%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
68.4%
Avg GPA
3.2
Avg SAT
1030
Avg ACT
22
Selectivity
Somewhat Selective
Institution Type
Non-Profit Private
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Higher Learning Commission
SAT Middle 50%
880–1120
ACT Middle 50%
18–26
Need-Based Aid
31.1% receive Pell
Adrian College, established in 1859 in Michigan, is a private liberal arts college ranked among the best regional colleges in the Midwest by U.S. News. Adrian offers 50+ academic programs with strengths in criminal justice, business, and exercise science. The college's 100-acre campus features the newly renovated Science Building, the Arrington Ice Arena, and the Ritchie Marketplace dining hall. Adrian maintains a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio and guarantees internships or research experiences for all students through its 'Institute for Career Planning.'
Adrian's location between Detroit and Toledo provides access to urban internship opportunities while maintaining a traditional college-town atmosphere. The Bulldogs compete in NCAA Division III athletics with a strong hockey tradition. Adrian's innovative '4+1' programs allow students to earn both bachelor's and master's degrees in five years. The campus hosts the annual 'Festival of Lights' holiday display and maintains partnerships with local manufacturers and healthcare providers for hands-on learning experiences.
Adrian College Acceptance Rate
Adrian College is somewhat selective in its admission process. The acceptance rate of Adrian College is 68.4%. This means that 68 out of every 100 applicants get admitted.
Admissions Guidelines
- Broad Evaluation: Personal growth and vocational goals are considered alongside grades.
- Flexible Standards: Strengths in extracurriculars can often balance an average GPA.
Selectivity at a Glance
Somewhat Selective
Selectivity scale: Somewhat Selective — 68.4% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)
Recommended Academic Profile
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.20 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.00 – 3.19
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 2.75
Secondary Reach
Requires Contextual Support
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Adrian College GPA Requirement
The average GPA of admitted students at Adrian College is 3.2. Admission is competitive, but not extremely selective.
A mix of A's and B's is acceptable, and taking AP/IB courses helps.
Note: This is an unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with AP or IB courses will typically have a weighted GPA of 3.40-3.60 for this same academic profile.If your GPA is between 2.90 and 3.2, you should aim for a high SAT or ACT score.
Adrian College GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Holistic review is critical for admission.
Recommended Strategy: Requires Contextual Factors (Leadership, hardship, or talent).
Admissions at Adrian College utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.2, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.20 – 4.00
Strategic Reach
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.00 – 3.19
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
2.80 – 2.99
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 2.79
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At Adrian College, a slightly lower GPA (e.g., 3.8) in a transcript featuring multiple AP or IB courses is often prioritized over a 4.0 in a standard curriculum.
- The Upward Trend: If your early high school grades were lower, an upward trajectory in 11th and 12th grade demonstrates Academic Resilience.
Data Source: Verified via IPEDS and latest Common Data Set (CDS). Reviewed by our academic board led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Check Your Admission Chances at Adrian College
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on Adrian College's verified institutional data
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Calculating Profile...
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Your SAT Score 1200
Your Unweighted GPA 3.00
✅ Verified Data: Institutional records for 2026.
Calculated via College Portal's Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards. Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.
Adrian College Test Requirements
In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2026 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.
Can I Get Into Adrian College Without SAT or ACT?
Adrian College considers admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process but does not require them. Although it is not strictly a requirement, the test scores are considered for admission decisions. Hence, it is advisable to prepare well for the test and submit the best scores. Normally, students may appear in the test 2 to 3 times to improve their scores.
Adrian College Average SAT Score: 1030
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Adrian College is 1030 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1030 — Accessible
This score makes it an easy target for SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 1030 on the SAT.
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1120 SAT or 26 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Adrian College allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 880, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at Adrian College. Retaking the test multiple times is completely normal — most competitive applicants take the SAT two or three times to achieve their best score. There is no official limit on attempts.
SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 488 | 425 | 550 |
| SAT Reading | 513 | 455 | 570 |
| SAT Composite | 1030 | 880 | 1120 |
It means that if you have scored less than 880 then you are below most of the admitted students at Adrian College and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1120 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students.
View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1050
Can I get into Adrian College with a 1100 SAT?
With a 1100 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Adrian College are good but the admission staff at Adrian College tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
Adrian College ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at Adrian College is 22.
ACT Competitiveness
ACT 22 — Slightly Competitive
This score makes Adrian College slightly Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do well to score 22 on the ACT.
ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 21 | 16 | 25 |
| ACT English | 20 | 17 | 23 |
| ACT Composite | 22 | 18 | 26 |
Can I get into Adrian College with a 26 ACT?
A 26 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at Adrian College — meaning you score higher than 75% of students who were accepted. This is a strong position, but the ACT is just one dimension of your application. Admissions officers at Adrian College use the ACT as a benchmark to validate your academic readiness, not as a standalone admission ticket.
Unlike the SAT, the ACT measures four distinct subject areas — English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science — each scored on a 1–36 scale. If one of your section scores is significantly lower than the others, admissions staff will notice the imbalance. For example, a weak ACT Science score at a STEM-focused institution carries more weight than the same weakness at a liberal arts college. It is worth reviewing your section-level scores and addressing any outliers before applying.
One important advantage the ACT has over the SAT is that Adrian College — like most US universities — accepts Superscoring for the ACT, meaning they take your highest section scores across multiple test attempts and combine them into a new composite. If you have taken the ACT more than once, confirm whether Adrian College uses Superscoring, as this could meaningfully improve your effective composite beyond what any single sitting shows.
Beyond your score, what ultimately determines admission at this level is the strength of your overall profile. Your unweighted GPA, course rigor (AP, IB, or dual enrollment), extracurricular depth, letters of recommendation, and personal essays all carry significant weight. A 26 ACT gets your application through the first filter — but your essays and activities are what move it forward from there.
Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for Adrian College
Accessible Strategy: Academic Foundation
Adrian College is accessible to students who show core competency. The focus should be on proving readiness for college-level work and securing financial aid.
Consistency over Perfection
Prove you can handle a college curriculum by maintaining a steady or upward GPA trend. One or two lower grades won't be a dealbreaker if you've improved since.
Placement Validation
Use the SAT or ACT to exempt yourself from non-credit remedial courses. A solid score here saves you time and tuition money once you enroll.
Practical Leadership
Highlight work experience, family responsibilities, or community service. These schools value 'grit' and real-world maturity.
FAFSA & Deadlines
At schools with higher acceptance rates, the 'win' is financial. Submit your FAFSA and local scholarship apps as early as possible to maximize your aid package.
Next Step: Review the specific 'Pre-Professional' tracks at Adrian College to ensure your high school electives align with your intended major.
Adrian College Profile
Full Name
Adrian College
City
Adrian
State
Michigan
ZIP Code
49221-2575
Type
Non-Profit Private
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Higher Learning Commission (NCACHE)
Is a Adrian College Degree Worth It?
Getting into Adrian College can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. Adrian College offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision.
Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at Adrian College is $66,900 and the graduate unemployment rate is 3.22%.
How much does a degree from Adrian College Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at Adrian College is $54,950. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Adrian College is much less than this.
31.1% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 70.3 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Adrian College and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Adrian College, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist Adrian College as your choice in the form.
How much does a Adrian College Graduate earn?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $55,504. An average Adrian College graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4–6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is $40,595.
Compare Similar Colleges
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Adrian College. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Faulkner University | Montgomery, AL | 1016 | 20 |
| University of West Alabama | Livingston, AL | 1015 | 20 |
| Baptist Health College Little Rock | Little Rock, AR | 980 | 20 |
| University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton | Morrilton, AR | 1020 | 20 |
| Williams Baptist University | Walnut Ridge, AR | 1018 | 19 |
| Metropolitan State University of Denver | Denver, CO | 1014 | 20 |
| Colorado State University Pueblo | Pueblo, CO | 1005 | 22 |
| University of Bridgeport | Bridgeport, CT | 985 | NA |
| Delaware State University | Dover, DE | 984 | 24 |
| Trinity Baptist College | Jacksonville, FL | 1007 | 20 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Adrian College. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central Baptist College | Conway, AR | 1022 | 20 |
| University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton | Morrilton, AR | 1020 | 20 |
| Thomas University | Thomasville, GA | 1037 | 21 |
| Valdosta State University | Valdosta, GA | 1037 | 20 |
| University of Hawaii at Hilo | Hilo, HI | 1025 | 19 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Adrian College. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auburn University at Montgomery | Montgomery, AL | 1090 | 21 |
| Spring Hill College | Mobile, AL | 1090 | 22 |
| Troy University | Troy, AL | 1086 | 22 |
| Grand Canyon University | Phoenix, AZ | 1095 | 22 |
| University of the Ozarks | Clarksville, AR | 1088 | 21 |
Degree Programs at Adrian College
Bachelor Degree Programs
Full list of all degree programs offered by Adrian College →
Frequently Asked Questions About Adrian College Admissions
Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $55,504 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.
The tuition fee at this university is quite high, approximately $54,950 or more per year, so it is important to consider additional funding options.
31.1% of students receive a Pell Grant at this institution. Your chances of need-based aid are moderate and depend primarily on your household income. Filing FAFSA early significantly improves your chances of receiving the maximum available grant amount.
The acceptance rate of Adrian College is 68.4% which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
The average GPA of admitted students is 3.2. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
While there is no single cutoff that guarantees a rejection, admission staff uses your GPA to determine if you are a best fit. If you have at least a 2.9, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 2.9, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
If your GPA is 2.8 or less, it may make admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays. But this does not mean that you must not apply, or you do not have any chances. With additional AP courses, you can increase your chances even with this GPA.
While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.2, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Admission to Adrian College is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1030 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 880–1120.
Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.