
16300 Old Emmitsburg Rd, Emmitsburg, MD 21727-7799, USA


Mount St. Mary's University holds accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, a recognized regional accrediting agency. This accreditation confirms that the university meets established standards for institutional quality and effectiveness, ensuring that its academic programs fulfill rigorous educational criteria. For prospective students, this accreditation is significant as it supports the transferability of credits, eligibility for federal financial aid, and the recognition of degrees by employers and other institutions. Additionally, certain specialized programs within the university may hold further accreditation relevant to their specific disciplines, enhancing the value of professional credentials earned there.
Admission to Mount St. Mary's University requires applicants to have completed a secondary school program, with a strong recommendation to submit their class rank and a required secondary school GPA. The university also mandates submission of high school records and recommendations as part of the application process. For students who have completed college-level programs, such completion is required for consideration. Applicants holding a General Educational Development (GED) credential meet part of the eligibility criteria.
English language proficiency must be demonstrated through the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), which is a mandatory requirement. Other standardized tests, while not required, are recommended to strengthen the application. The university does not have an open admission policy, and it does not grant dual credit for high school courses. However, it does accept both college credit and Advanced Placement (AP) credits toward degree requirements.
The university admits a significant portion of applicants, with an acceptance rate of 72%, placing it in the top half of institutions by selectivity. Approximately 13% of enrolled students submitted SAT scores, while 2% submitted ACT scores. Although average SAT and ACT scores of enrolled students are not publicly available, data shows varied ACT score distributions among students, with about one-third scoring below 29 and a quarter below 17 or 23. Overall, the number of applicants, admissions, and enrolled students is considered average in comparison to other institutions, with a modestly selective profile.
Mount St. Mary's University requires prospective students to submit an application fee when applying for admission. However, the university offers fee waivers under certain circumstances to help reduce financial barriers for applicants. These waivers are typically available for students who demonstrate financial need or participate in specific programs that facilitate access to college applications. To request a fee waiver, applicants usually need to provide documentation or meet eligibility criteria established by the admissions office. This policy aims to ensure that the cost of applying does not deter qualified students from considering the university as a potential place of study.
Mount St. Mary's University offers access to Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs through its affiliation with host institutions. While the university itself does not host an ROTC branch unit on campus, students have the opportunity to participate in ROTC by enrolling at cooperating institutions nearby. This arrangement allows prospective students interested in military leadership training to benefit from ROTC coursework and commissioning programs without the university maintaining a dedicated unit.
Mount St. Mary's University welcomes transfer students for the fall, spring, and summer terms, offering multiple entry points throughout the academic year. The institution accepts transfer credits from various standardized examinations, including both CLEP General and CLEP Subject tests, as well as credits earned through DANTES. This approach facilitates credit recognition for students transitioning from other colleges or possessing prior learning experiences.
Transfer applicants must submit recommendations as part of their application process, emphasizing the university's holistic review of candidates. Additionally, Mount St. Mary's University allows the acceptance of transfer credits generally, which can help students progress efficiently toward their degree completion.
Mount St. Mary's University offers a range of study abroad programs designed to enrich the academic experience of its students through international exposure. These programs vary in length and focus, providing options that suit diverse interests and academic goals. Students may participate in semester-long immersions, short-term faculty-led trips, or summer study opportunities, each crafted to combine coursework with cultural engagement.
The university partners with institutions around the world, enabling students to take classes abroad that count toward their degree requirements. This approach helps maintain academic progress while broadening global perspectives. Popular destinations include European countries, where students can explore history, arts, and languages firsthand.
Additionally, Mount St. Mary's supports internships and service learning projects abroad, facilitating practical experience in international settings. These programs emphasize not only academic growth but also personal development, encouraging students to build adaptability and cross-cultural skills vital in today's interconnected world.
The university also provides pre-departure orientations and ongoing support to help students navigate both academic and cultural challenges during their time overseas. Financial aid options and scholarships are available to assist with program costs, making study abroad accessible to a wider range of students.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
2%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
13%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
RequiredFormal 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
YesAdvanced 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 institutionROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy 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, Summer