Undergraduate Admission at MCLA
Your path to MCLA depends on where you are in your education. Whether you're applying from high school, transferring from another college, coming from outside the United States, or returning to MCLA, you'll find a clear application path and a team ready to help you through it. MCLA is test-free for Fall 2026 applicants.
With nearly 1,000 undergraduates/1,300 total enrollment universally, an 8:1 student-faculty ratio and 90+ programs of study, MCLA offers a close-knit learning environment where students can build meaningful connections with faculty and the campus community.
How do I apply?
If you're applying from high school
Apply through the Common Application. We review your academic record, the strength of your curriculum, your essay and your recommendations.
If you've already earned college credit
If you've already earned college credit, review the transfer admission process. MCLA will evaluate your previous coursework and let you know which credits can apply toward your degree.
If you're applying from outside the US
International applicants complete additional requirements, including proof of English proficiency and financial documentation for the student visa process.
If you attended MCLA before
If you previously attended MCLA and want to return, follow the readmission process for former students.
Do I need to submit SAT or ACT scores?
MCLA is test-free. SAT and ACT scores aren't required and aren't considered in admission decisions for Fall 2026 applicants. Applications are evaluated on high school academic performance, the strength of the curriculum completed, a personal essay and letters of recommendation.
What is MCLA like?
MCLA enrolls nearly 1,000/1,300 students as of Fall 2025 and offers 90+ programs of study with an 8:1 student-faculty ratio. The College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education and has an alumni network of more than 20,000 graduates.
What will it cost me?
Every student who applies for admission is automatically considered for institutional merit scholarships. There is no separate scholarship application. In-state tuition and fees are $13,068 for 2026-27. Full cost details, including out-of-state rates and total cost of attendance, are on the Cost of Attendance page.
Is MCLA financially stable?
Students and families who have questions about MCLA's long-term financial position should be directed to the College's most recent official institutional and financial reports.
FAQs
A: Applications to MCLA are submitted through the Common Application. MCLA offers test-free admission, so SAT and ACT scores are neither required nor considered for Fall 2026 applicants. First-year applicants are evaluated on high school academic performance, curriculum rigor, a personal essay and letters of recommendation. Students with 12 or more prior college credit apply as transfer students. All applicants for admission are automatically considered for institutional merit scholarships.
A: MCLA is a public liberal arts college in North Adams, Massachusetts, founded in 1894 and accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. The College enrolls 1,000/1,300 students, offers 90+ programs of study and maintains an 8:1 student-faculty ratio. It has an alumni network of 20,000+ alumni.
A: Admission is test-free, meaning SAT and ACT scores are neither required nor considered
for Fall 2026 applicants. Applications are evaluated on high school academic record,
the rigor of the curriculum completed, a personal essay and letters of recommendation.
A: Dr. Diana L. Rogers-Adkinson serves as president of Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, having taken office on July 1, 2026. MCLA is a public liberal arts college in North Adams, Massachusetts, founded in 1894 and accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, enrolling 896 students.
Student Voices
Student Voices
"MCLA has some of the best resources available. Going to a small school in a small town sometimes gives you more opportunities than a larger school. It’s a unique place that should not be taken for granted."
Looking for More Information?
Reach Out to Us
We’ll share helpful information and student stories, and we promise not to flood your inbox.