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Transfer FAQs

  • I’ve taken some college courses. Should I apply as a Transfer student?

    Only a student who has been enrolled at another college or university as full-time, degree-seeking students may apply as a Transfer student. A student taking college courses while still in high school must apply as a first-year student.

  • How do I go about applying?

    You must apply for admission by using the Common Application.

  • How much is the application fee?

    Macalester does not have an application fee.

  • What is the timeline for applying and when can I expect a decision?

    All application and financial aid materials should be received on or before April 1.

    Decision from Macalester is May 3

    Applicant Reply Deadline is May 16 (students must respond to their offer of admission by this date)

  • What if I have difficulty obtaining the required letter of recommendation?

    If you have been out of college for more than one year and have difficulty obtaining an academic recommendation or if you have been in college for less than a year and would like permission to request a recommendation from one of your high school instructors, contact [email protected] to explain your situation and discuss options.

  • How many credits can I transfer to Macalester? How can I find out if my credits will transfer?

    You may transfer up to sixty-four credit hours to Macalester. In order to receive a Macalester degree you must complete two full years of coursework (sixty-four credit hours) at Macalester. 
     
    Transfer applicants are eligible for an official transcript evaluation after receiving an offer of admission from Macalester College. Generally, credit is awarded for liberal arts courses taken at regionally-accredited colleges and universities, though this is subject to our transfer credit guidelines. Upon an offer of admission, you may request that your current/prior coursework be evaluated for possible transfer credit. To do so, please email a transcript with a request for an evaluation to [email protected] or have an official transcript sent directly to the Registrar’s Office, 1600 Grand Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55105.

  • Do you require standardized test scores as part of the application?

    Macalester has a Test-Optional admissions policy. This includes ACT, SAT, SAT II, AP, and IB. There will be no penalty for students who choose not to submit test scores in the selection process or distribution of merit scholarship. You can learn more about our Testing Policy here.

    If you believe your standardized test scores will add another positive layer to your application file, then please feel free to submit scores to our office or self-report them in the Common Application. Macalester’s testing codes are 2122 (ACT) and 6390 (SAT).

  • Is there housing for Transfer students? Are Transfer students required to stay in on-campus housing?

    Macalester does not require Transfer students to stay on campus. A limited amount of on-campus housing is reserved for Transfer students. For Transfer students who wish to live off-campus, the College is able to provide guidance on housing options in the community and opportunities to live with Macalester students off-campus. Please reach out to [email protected] with additional questions.

  • Do you have financial aid for Transfer students?

    Macalester is committed to meeting the full demonstrated financial need for every admitted student.

    All Transfer applicants for admission are considered for merit-based scholarships. No additional scholarship application is required. Students selected for merit-based scholarships are notified by the Admissions Office, shortly after admission notices are sent. Merit Scholarship

    If you wish to be considered for financial aid, you must indicate your interest when you apply via the Common Application. All Transfer application materials for both admissions and financial aid are due by April 1. Financial Aid.

  • How do I apply to take a class (or classes) as a non-degree-seeking student?

    If you want to take classes at Macalester without enrolling as a full-time student you should contact the Registrar’s Office at [email protected] or 651-696-6200.

  • What if I have other questions about applying to Macalester?

    Once you have submitted your application you will receive a user name and password that will allow you to check the status of your application online.

Questions?

We are here to help. Please reach out and our Transfer Student Coordinator will reply soon.

Contact
Jace Riggin
Assistant Director & Transfer Student Coordinator
1-651-696-6357
[email protected]

FAQ for All Students >