Public
Accredited · Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Kings Point, New York
32.5% Acceptance Rate
United States Merchant Marine Academy — Admission Snapshot 2026
A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application
32.5%Acceptance Rate
3.6Avg GPA
1226Avg SAT
26Avg ACT
$9,547Annual Cost
$90,610Grad Salary
7.3%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
32.5%
Avg GPA
3.6
Avg SAT
1226
Avg ACT
26
Selectivity
Selective
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
SAT Middle 50%
1140–1300
ACT Middle 50%
23–29
Avg Net Price
$7,506
Need-Based Aid
7.3% receive Pell
The United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA), established in 1943, is one of five federal service academies that educates officers for the U.S. Merchant Marine and armed forces. Located in Kings Point, New York, USMMA's rigorous program combines academic education with professional training and sea year experience. Midshipmen choose from six license programs in marine engineering or transportation, earning both a Bachelor of Science degree and a merchant marine officer's license.
USMMA's 82-acre waterfront campus features ship simulators and engineering labs. The academy's honor code?'A midshipman does not lie, cheat, or steal'?guides character development. Graduates serve as licensed officers in the maritime industry or commission as ensigns in the military. Alumni include shipping executives, naval officers, and leaders who maintain America's maritime strength.
United States Merchant Marine Academy Acceptance Rate
United States Merchant Marine Academy is a well-known institution. It has a selective admission process. The acceptance rate of United States Merchant Marine Academy is 32.5%. This means that 33 out of every 100 applicants get admitted.
Admissions Guidelines
- Selective Enrollment: Applicants need a solid GPA and proof of academic growth.
- Holistic Balance: Strong recommendations and community involvement are highly valued.
Selectivity at a Glance
Selective
Selectivity scale: Selective — 32.5% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)
If your GPA is slightly below the institutional average, you can remain competitive by scoring well on standardized tests and showcasing leadership in co-curricular activities.
Recommended Academic Profile
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.60 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.40 – 3.59
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 3.15
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.
USMMA GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at USMMA is 3.6. USMMA is highly selective.
Mostly A's with a few B's will keep you competitive. Taking AP/IB courses related to your field will improve your chances.
Note: This is an unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with AP or IB courses will typically have a weighted GPA of 3.80-4.00 for this same academic profile.If your GPA is between 3.30 and 3.6, a strong SAT or ACT score is recommended.
USMMA GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Selective; solid academic performance is expected.
Recommended Strategy: Focus on a Strong 'Spike' in extracurriculars or research.
Admissions at USMMA utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.6, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.60 – 4.00
Target/Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.40 – 3.59
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
3.20 – 3.39
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 3.19
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At USMMA, 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 USMMA
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on United States Merchant Marine Academy'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.
United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) 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 USMMA Without SAT or ACT?
United States Merchant Marine Academy requires test (SAT/ACT) scores to determine the merit for admission. It means that students will not be allowed to apply without test scores. Hence you are required to plan early and appear in upcoming SAT / ACT tests. Check the schedule of the test and plan accordingly. It is advisable to appear multiple times in the test unless you score well above the average SAT / ACT score of the admitted students, as given below. Normally, students may appear in the test multiple times to improve their scores.
United States Merchant Marine Academy Average SAT Score: 1226
The average SAT score of the admitted students at United States Merchant Marine Academy is 1226 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1226 — Slightly Competitive
This score makes it slightly Competitive for SAT test scores. You need to do well to score 1226 on the SAT.
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1300 SAT or 29 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. United States Merchant Marine Academy allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 1140, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at USMMA. 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 | 610 | 570 | 650 |
| SAT Reading | 610 | 570 | 650 |
| SAT Composite | 1226 | 1140 | 1300 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1140 then you are below most of the admitted students at USMMA and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1300 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 1250
Can I get into United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) with a 1300 SAT?
With a 1300 SAT Score, your chances of admission at United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) are good but the admission staff at USMMA 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.
United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at USMMA is 26.
ACT Competitiveness
ACT 26 — Competitive
This score makes United States Merchant Marine Academy Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do well to score 26 on the ACT.
ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 26 | 23 | 28 |
| ACT English | 27 | 23 | 30 |
| ACT Composite | 26 | 23 | 29 |
Can I get into United States Merchant Marine Academy with a 29 ACT?
A 29 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at United States Merchant Marine Academy — 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 United States Merchant Marine Academy 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 United States Merchant Marine Academy — 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 United States Merchant Marine Academy 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 29 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 USMMA
Selective Strategy: Competitive Positioning
At USMMA, admissions officers seek reliable, high-achieving students. The goal is to be a top-tier applicant to trigger both admission and high-value merit aid.
Target the 75th Percentile
Being 'average' is fine for admission, but being in the top 25% of the applicant pool is the primary key to securing automatic merit-based scholarships.
Demonstrated Interest
Unlike the Ivies, mid-tier schools track engagement. Open their emails, attend virtual tours, and mention specific campus programs to improve your 'Yield' profile.
The 'Breadth' Factor
Mid-tier institutions value students who contribute to campus life through a balance of sports, music, volunteering, and core academic strength.
Humanize the Transcript
Use your personal statement to prove you will be a 'good roommate' and active community member. Focus on resilience, empathy, and career goals.
Scholarship Tip: Applying Early Action (EA) at this level often increases your priority for institutional grants and honors college consideration.
USMMA Profile
Full Name
United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA)
City
Kings Point
State
New York
ZIP Code
11024-1634
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)
Is a USMMA Degree Worth It?
Getting into USMMA 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. USMMA 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 USMMA is $76,800 and the graduate unemployment rate is 2.84%.
How much does a degree from USMMA Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at United States Merchant Marine Academy is $9,547. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at United States Merchant Marine Academy is $7,506.
7.3% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 6.6 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to USMMA and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At United States Merchant Marine Academy, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist USMMA as your choice in the form.
How much does a USMMA Graduate earn?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $90,610. An average USMMA 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 United States Merchant Marine Academy. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birmingham-Southern College | Birmingham, AL | 1197 | 24 |
| Samford University | Birmingham, AL | 1203 | 26 |
| Harding University | Searcy, AR | 1187 | 25 |
| Ouachita Baptist University | Arkadelphia, AR | 1212 | 25 |
| Dominican University of California | San Rafael, CA | 1194 | 26 |
| Eastern Connecticut State University | Willimantic, CT | 1200 | NA |
| University of Hartford | West Hartford, CT | 1207 | 29 |
| University of New Haven | West Haven, CT | 1190 | NA |
| Quinnipiac University | Hamden, CT | 1212 | 27 |
| Howard University | Washington, DC | 1205 | 25 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as United States Merchant Marine Academy. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Mobile | Mobile, AL | 1220 | 24 |
| John Brown University | Siloam Springs, AR | 1222 | 26 |
| California Lutheran University | Thousand Oaks, CA | 1224 | 26 |
| University of Redlands | Redlands, CA | 1231 | 28 |
| University of South Florida | Tampa, FL | 1235 | 27 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than United States Merchant Marine Academy. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| The University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa, AL | 1287 | 28 |
| University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ | 1261 | 26 |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott | Prescott, AZ | 1256 | 27 |
| Biola University | La Mirada, CA | 1258 | 27 |
| University of the Pacific | Stockton, CA | 1303 | 27 |
Degree Programs at USMMA
Bachelor Degree Programs
Masters Degree Programs
Full list of all degree programs offered by United States Merchant Marine Academy →
Frequently Asked Questions About USMMA Admissions
Graduates of this university typically earn a high salary, $90,610 annually, depending on the industry.
The tuition fee at this university is relatively low, around $9,547 per year, making it more affordable for many students.
Pell Grant data is not available for this institution. Contact the financial aid office directly to ask about need-based and merit-based aid options.
The acceptance rate of United States Merchant Marine Academy is 32.5% 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 3.6. 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 3.3, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.3, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
If your GPA is 3.2 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 3.6, 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 United States Merchant Marine Academy is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1226 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1140–1300.
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.