Preliminary Application
Start your Macalester application by submitting the Preliminary Application. You’ll benefit from tailored communications, access to your Applicant Portal, and an invite to interview with an Admissions staff member.
Admissions & Aid
At Macalester, our mission is to prepare students for lives of meaning and purpose. Students here receive unparalleled support and mentorship as they discover their place in the world and learn how to become agents of change.
If you have recently submitted an application to Macalester, please allow 24-72 hours for us to process your materials and update your application status. You will receive an email if any items are needed to complete your application. You will also receive an email when your application is complete. Check your Macalester Application Portal for updates on your application status. We look forward to reviewing your application!
Rising Seniors & Transfer Students
APPLY TO MACALESTER
Application
The Common App or the QuestBridge Application are where you complete your application to Macalester. Learn more about the process and view the key steps and deadlines.
Visit Macalester
Learn more about our College in the City
Explore our neighborhood campus, and step inside the buildings that will support your learning. Take a virtual tour any time, or join our staff and students for online information sessions, tours, and workshops.
Financial Aid
Many students and families are surprised at the different ways to make college more affordable. We meet 100% of the full demonstrated need of every student we admit, and all first-year applicants are considered for merit-based scholarships.
Students at Macalester
If you’re motivated and ambitious, Macalester might be the right fit for you. Create the next innovation. Sharpen your perspective. Transform your worldview. Macalester students come from across the U.S. and around the world.
2,000+
Student body
98
Countries represented
61%
Students who study away
A Day in the Life
Bianca Gonzalez
See campus life from Bianca’s perspective.
A Day in the Life
Bianca Gonzalez
See campus life from Bianca’s perspective.