
614 West Superior Street, Alma, MI 48801-1599, USA


Alma College holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accrediting body recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This accreditation affirms that the college meets established standards of academic quality and institutional integrity.
The college maintains specialized accreditations for certain programs, ensuring that these areas adhere to professional standards that support student preparation in specific fields. Such accreditations play a critical role in validating the quality and rigor of the academic offerings at Alma College.
For prospective students, accreditation status is an essential factor as it impacts eligibility for federal financial aid, transferability of credits, and recognition of degrees by employers and graduate schools.
Prospective students aiming to enroll at Alma College must have completed a high school diploma or possess a General Educational Development (GED) credential. The college requires a secondary school academic record and the applicant's grade point average. While submitting recommendations and admission test scores is recommended, these are not strictly mandatory. The institution mandates proof of English proficiency through a TOEFL score for applicable students.
The college does not operate an open admission policy, and dual credit or credit admission options are not available, although Advanced Placement (AP) credits may be accepted. Alma College does not require students to have access to a personal computer or offer any computer leasing programs as part of the admission process.
Regarding standardized testing, submission of ACT scores is suggested but not compulsory. The data shows that 42% of enrolled students submitted SAT scores, with 3% submitting ACT scores. Among students with ACT results, 50% scored below 29, 20% below 23, and 10% below 17, indicating a range of academic preparedness reflected in the applicant pool.
Additional factors such as secondary school rank, competencies, and other test scores are recommended but not critical for admission consideration. Alma College's acceptance rate stands at approximately 66%, reflecting a moderately selective admissions environment in comparison to national averages.
Alma College requires prospective students to pay a standard application fee when submitting their admission materials. However, the institution offers fee waivers under specific circumstances to reduce financial barriers for applicants. Typically, these waivers are available to students who demonstrate financial need or participate in certain counselor recommendation programs. Students interested in obtaining a fee waiver should check the college's application guidelines or contact the admissions office directly to confirm eligibility and the process for obtaining a waiver.
Alma College itself does not host its own ROTC programs. Instead, students interested in Reserve Officers' Training Corps training participate through a cooperating host institution that manages the ROTC branch units.
Alma College welcomes transfer students for both the fall and winter semesters, providing flexibility for those planning to begin their studies outside the traditional freshman entry period. Transfer applicants should be prepared for a moderately difficult admissions process that evaluates their academic readiness.
The college accepts transfer credits from a variety of sources, including both CLEP subject and general examinations as well as DANTES credits, facilitating the recognition of prior learning and reducing redundancy in coursework. Recommendations from previous instructors or institutions are also considered, which can enhance an applicant's transfer credentials.
Alma College provides a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' global perspectives and academic experience. The college offers semester-long programs, short-term faculty-led trips, and summer sessions that allow students to study in diverse international settings. These programs span multiple disciplines, enabling students to earn credits applicable to their degree requirements while immersed in a different culture.
Students can choose from established partnerships with universities and institutions in Europe, Asia, and other regions, which facilitate academic exchange and cultural immersion. Additionally, Alma College supports customized study abroad experiences that align with individual academic goals and interests, backed by faculty guidance and administrative support. Language studies, international internships, and service-learning projects are also part of the options, providing a well-rounded approach to global education.
Participation in these programs is structured to ensure that students maintain academic progress while gaining invaluable international experience. The college's commitment to accessible and diverse study abroad opportunities underscores its emphasis on preparing students for success in an increasingly interconnected world.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
3%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
42%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RecommendedRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Winter