
1 Normal Avenue, Montclair, NJ 07043, USA


Montclair State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, which serves as its regional accrediting agency. This accreditation affirms that the university meets rigorous standards of quality in its academic programs, faculty qualifications, and student services. For prospective students, this recognition signifies that Montclair State University offers a credible education recognized by employers and other institutions.
Additionally, various professional programs at Montclair State University hold specialized accreditations. These accreditations ensure that specific fields of study, such as business, education, or health sciences, adhere to industry standards and prepare students effectively for their careers. Though details about every specialized accreditation are not exhaustively listed, the university maintains a commitment to upholding the integrity and quality of its academic offerings across disciplines.
Montclair State University requires prospective students to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) for admission consideration. Applicants must submit their secondary school records, including grade point average (GPA), as these are mandatory components of the admission process. While standardized admission test scores such as the SAT or ACT are not explicitly required, the university does mandate TOEFL scores for applicants requiring English proficiency evaluation. Additionally, recommendation letters are necessary, and submitting other standardized test scores is recommended but not compulsory.
The university does not operate under an open admission policy, and dual credit or college credit earned prior to admission is not accepted, though Advanced Placement (AP) credits are acknowledged. Computer ownership is not mandatory for applicants, but computer leasing options are available.
Regarding standardized testing performance, the average SAT score for enrolled students is 1110, with average subscores of 555 in both math and writing, placing these scores approximately in the bottom 40 percent nationally. Montclair State University experiences a high volume of applicants, with approximately 23,599 individuals applying annually. The admissions rate is relatively high at 87 percent, reflecting the institution's inclusive but selective nature, and the enrolled cohort typically numbers just over 4,000 students each year.
Montclair State University requires prospective undergraduate applicants to pay a nonrefundable application fee to process their materials. This fee helps cover administrative costs associated with reviewing applications. The amount required is clearly stated on the university's admissions webpage and must be submitted along with the application to complete the process.
The university offers fee waivers for eligible students who demonstrate financial need or meet specific criteria set by the admissions office. These waivers are intended to reduce economic barriers for applicants by eliminating or reducing the application fee. Students interested in a fee waiver must provide documentation or evidence as specified by Montclair State University's guidelines.
Additionally, fee waiver requests can often be made through standardized testing programs or participating high school counselors, who may facilitate the process for qualified students. It is important for applicants to review the university's official instructions carefully to ensure they meet eligibility requirements and submit any necessary forms or requests within stated deadlines.
Montclair State University does not offer its own Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs on campus. However, students interested in participating in ROTC have the option to enroll in programs at nearby institutions that provide Army, Navy, or Air Force ROTC training. This arrangement allows Montclair State University students to pursue military leadership training and scholarships while completing their academic studies.
Montclair State University permits transfer applications for the fall and spring semesters, offering opportunities for students to join during these periods. The university has a moderately difficult entrance process for transfer candidates, reflecting a balanced level of selectivity.
Applicants may transfer credits, as the institution accepts previously earned coursework. Additionally, Montclair State University recognizes both CLEP General and CLEP Subject exams for credit, providing academic flexibility for incoming students.
Transfer candidates can submit letters of recommendation to support their applications, which the university considers as part of the admission process. However, there is an age limit policy that generally restricts acceptance of transfer credits to those earned within the past 10 years.
Montclair State University offers a variety of study abroad programs designed to enhance students' global understanding and academic experience. These programs include shortterm faculty-led trips, semester-long exchanges, and full academic year options. The university partners with institutions across several continents, providing opportunities in Europe, Asia, Latin America, and beyond.
Students can participate in programs that align closely with their field of study, ranging from business and education to the arts and sciences. Many study abroad options include internships or service-learning components, enabling practical experience alongside academic coursework. Additionally, the university supports study abroad through scholarships and advising services to help students navigate the process and secure funding.
The flexibility of Montclair State University's offerings allows students to choose programs that vary in duration, cost, and cultural immersion intensity, accommodating diverse academic schedules and financial situations. These initiatives aim to foster cross-cultural competence and prepare students for the increasingly globalized professional environment.
Median composite SAT score
1110Percent of students submitting SAT scores
9%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
Data not availableAdmission 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
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
YesApproved 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