
1000 W. Austin Blvd, Nevada, MO 64772, USA


Cottey College holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, a recognized regional accrediting agency. This accreditation ensures that the college meets established standards for academic quality, institutional integrity, and continuous improvement. For prospective students, this means that credits earned at Cottey College are more likely to be transferable to other accredited institutions, and that degrees awarded are recognized by employers and other education providers.
Additionally, the college's accreditation signifies that it adheres to rigorous evaluation processes regarding faculty qualifications, curriculum, student services, and financial stability. This status is an important consideration for those seeking a reliable and credible higher education experience.
Cottey College requires applicants to have completed their secondary education, with a General Educational Development (GED) credential being mandatory for admission. Submission of a secondary school academic record is necessary, and maintaining a minimum grade point average is required. While ranking in the secondary school class is recommended, it is not compulsory. Prospective students must also demonstrate successful completion or enrollment in a college-level program. English language proficiency is evaluated through a required TOEFL score for non-native speakers, with other standardized tests encouraged but not mandatory.
The college does not operate under an open admission policy, meaning acceptance is selective rather than guaranteed. Candidates cannot apply for dual credit, and college credit is generally required for program entry. Advanced Placement credits are accepted, which may benefit applicants with prior advanced coursework.
Regarding standardized testing, approximately 8% of enrolled students reported ACT scores, with the mean composite score around 22, placing candidates in the lower 30th percentile nationally. The acceptance rate stands at about 66%, reflecting a moderate level of selectivity. Admissions and enrollment data indicate a predominance of female applicants and enrollees, aligning with the college's applicant pool demographics.
Cottey College charges an application fee to prospective students as part of its admissions process. This fee is a one-time payment required to submit an application for enrollment consideration. However, the college offers fee waivers under specific circumstances, ensuring that financial limitations do not prevent qualified applicants from applying. These waivers are typically granted based on financial need or through certain programs that support students seeking higher education. Applicants interested in fee waivers should contact the admissions office directly to learn about eligibility criteria and the process for requesting a waiver.
Cottey College does not host its own ROTC programs on campus. Instead, students interested in participating in ROTC must enroll through a cooperating host institution that supports the relevant ROTC branch unit. This arrangement allows students to pursue military training and education in conjunction with their academic studies at Cottey College, while physically attending ROTC activities elsewhere.
Cottey College permits transfer students to enroll for the fall and spring terms, providing flexibility for those seeking to join during these semesters. The institution welcomes transfer credits and accepts examinations such as the CLEP for both subject-specific and general examinations, facilitating credit recognition for prior learning.
Cottey College offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance the academic and cultural experiences of its students. These programs are structured to provide immersive learning environments in several international locations, allowing students to engage directly with different cultures while continuing their coursework. The college emphasizes small group travel and experiential learning as key components of its study abroad initiatives.
The available programs typically include short-term trips during academic breaks, faculty-led courses overseas, and semester-long exchanges with partner institutions. Students can choose from destinations that support diverse fields of study, fostering global awareness and broader perspectives in disciplines such as humanities, sciences, and the arts. Faculty involvement ensures that each program aligns with academic goals and offers guided exploration beyond the classroom.
Participation in these international programs also encourages personal growth, adaptability, and intercultural communication skills-all valuable assets for students preparing for global careers. Cottey College supports students throughout the application and preparation process, including assistance with travel arrangements and academic credit transfer.
Median composite SAT score
1075Median composite ACT score
22Percent of students submitting ACT scores
8%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
Data not availableComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
Data not availableSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (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
Data not availableDisabilities services
Data not availableOff-campus study
Data not availableROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent 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
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring