
229 Main St., Keene, NH 03435, USA


Keene State College holds accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which is a significant marker of institutional quality and rigor. This regional accreditation ensures that the college meets established standards for academic programs, faculty qualifications, and student services, providing prospective students assurance of a recognized and credible education.
In addition to its regional accreditation, certain professional programs at Keene State College may hold specialized accreditation, aligning with industry standards and enhancing graduates' credentials in their respective fields. This dual-layered accreditation framework supports students seeking both a comprehensive liberal arts education and targeted professional preparation.
Keene State College requires applicants to have completed secondary school or hold a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Submission of a secondary school record and a college preparatory program are mandatory for admission consideration. The college does not have an open admission policy, indicating selectivity in the acceptance process.
While standardized test scores such as the SAT and ACT are recommended, they are not strictly required. The institution also suggests but does not require additional assessments or competency evaluations. Advanced Placement (AP) credits and other forms of academic credit are accepted, though dual credit options are not offered.
The average SAT score for enrolled students is modest, with a mean composite score of 1070, placing it in the lower 30th percentile nationally. The math component averages 520, considered low, while the writing portion stands at 550, which falls around the average range. The mean ACT score is 25, reflecting an average national performance around the 55th percentile.
Admissions at Keene State College are relatively accessible, with an acceptance rate near 89%, situating it in the higher quartile for selectivity nationally. Of the approximately 4,666 applicants, around 4,157 are admitted, and about 728 ultimately enroll annually. These figures indicate a moderately competitive admissions environment, with a balanced gender distribution among applicants and enrollees.
Keene State College requires an application fee to be submitted by prospective students when applying for admission. However, the exact fee amount is not specified in the available information. The college offers fee waivers for applicants who demonstrate financial need, allowing them to apply without incurring the cost. Students can request these waivers during the application process, which helps reduce barriers for those unable to afford the fee. This policy reflects Keene State College's commitment to accessibility and supporting a diverse applicant pool.
Keene State College does not have its own Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) branch unit on campus. Prospective students interested in participating in ROTC programs would need to enroll in such programs at a cooperating host institution.
Keene State College accepts transfer students for both the fall and spring semesters, offering opportunities for those seeking to continue their education at this institution. The process is moderately difficult, indicating a standard level of selectivity for applicants.
Transfer credit acceptance is a key component of the college's policy. It recognizes credits earned through CLEP examinations, including both subject-specific and general exams, as well as credits from DANTES tests. This broad acceptance of standardized test credits provides flexibility for transfer students coming from various educational backgrounds.
The college also considers recommendation letters as part of the application process, which can support a transfer candidate's admission prospects. Additionally, Keene State College accepts transfer credits in general, facilitating a smoother transition for students moving from other institutions.
Keene State College offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance the academic and cultural experiences of its students. The programs include faculty-led short-term trips, semester- or year-long exchanges, and internships abroad. These options allow students to engage deeply with global perspectives while earning academic credit toward their degrees.
Students can participate in faculty-led programs, which typically last a few weeks and focus on specific subjects linked to the faculty member's expertise. These programs provide immersive experiences while maintaining close academic support from the home institution.
The college also supports traditional semester and year-long study abroad programs in partnership with universities worldwide. These longer-term programs help students gain a comprehensive understanding of international academic environments and cultural contexts. Participants can choose from a range of countries and disciplines, enabling them to find a program that aligns with their academic goals.
Internships abroad present another valuable opportunity at Keene State College, combining practical work experience with cultural immersion. These internships allow students to build professional skills in an international setting and broaden their career prospects.
Median composite SAT score
1070Median composite ACT score
25Percent of students submitting SAT scores
11%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
RecommendedTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
Data not availableOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
NoROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Air Force
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, Spring