Vassar College Overview

Vassar College is a four-year, full-time, more selective, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in Poughkeepsie, NY. It has an enrollment of 2,500 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 20.15%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $35,236. Tuition is $62,870.00 without financial aid.

Vassar College is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Vassar College, 94.70% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Vassar College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 8 to 1.

Vassar College Website

Vassar College Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 20.15%.

SAT or ACT scores are considered but not required.

• The average SAT score was 1480.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 33.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Vassar College Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $35,236.

The average tuition is:

• $10,697, when family income is less than $30,000

• $14,383, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $23,695, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $23,770, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $52,260, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 43.16% of students received a federal student loan and 21.40% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $62,870.00 without financial aid.

Vassar College Net Price Calculator

Vassar College Majors/Salaries

Vassar College has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Vassar College here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Natural Resources Conservation and Research. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,476
• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,959
• Computer and Information Sciences, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $69,535
• Education, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,741
• East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $20,140
• Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,685
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,771
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,391
• Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,025
• Neurobiology and Neurosciences. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,353
• Mathematics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $49,683
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,708
• Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $57,995
• Geography and Cartography. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $24,421
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,670
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Urban Studies/Affairs. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $24,035
• Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,236
• Film/Video and Photographic Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,729
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,600

Vassar College Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Vassar College

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.00%
• Asian: 12.64%
• Black: 3.88%
• Hispanic: 11.32%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.00%
• Non-resident alien: 8.32%
• Two or more races: 7.88%
• Unknown: 1.32%
• White: 54.64%

At Vassar College, 1.03% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Vassar College Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Vassar College?

Vassar College has a strong tradition of school spirit and camaraderie among its student body. There are numerous student-led organizations and events that foster a sense of community, including athletic teams, performing arts groups, and social justice clubs. The college has a strong presence in Division III athletics, and many students participate in varsity and club sports. Additionally, the college hosts events like the Founder’s Day celebration and the annual Mill Street Block Party, which bring the entire community together. Overall, Vassar has a vibrant and engaged student body that takes pride in their school and its history.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Vassar College?

Vassar College offers a wide range of extracurricular activities for its students. Some of the popular extracurricular activities at Vassar College include music and singing groups, various dance teams, theater productions, political clubs, community service organizations, sports teams, and much more. Vassar is known for its active student body, so there are plenty of opportunities to get involved and find new passions. Additionally, Vassar College also offers a range of programs and resources to help students pursue their interests, such as research grants and study abroad programs.

How are the food choices at Vassar College?

Vassar College has a wide range of dining options available for its students. The college has three main dining halls, each offering different dining experiences and menu options. The Marketplace offers a variety of stations including gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, while the Retreat is more focused on comfort food and has a rotating menu. The Bridge Cafe is a popular spot for grab-and-go snacks and sandwiches. Additionally, Vassar has a number of cafes and specialty food shops on campus that offer coffee, baked goods, sushi, and more. Overall, Vassar College has a good reputation for its nutritious and diverse food options.

Is there Greek life at Vassar College?

Yes, Vassar College has a Greek life system. However, the sororities and fraternities at Vassar are non-residential and focus more on community service and social events rather than the traditional party culture often associated with Greek life. The Greek organizations on campus are overseen by the Vassar Student Association and are open to all students, regardless of gender.

What is Vassar College known for?

Vassar College is a private, liberal arts college located in Poughkeepsie, New York. It is known for its strong academic programs in the humanities and social sciences, as well as its commitment to gender equality and diversity. Vassar College was founded in 1861 as a women’s college, but it became coeducational in 1969. Today, Vassar has a diverse student body, with students from all 50 U.S. states and more than 60 countries. Vassar offers a wide range of majors, minors, and interdisciplinary programs in fields such as English, history, psychology, biology, economics, and political science. Students are encouraged to engage in research and creative projects, and the college has a strong tradition of support for the arts. Vassar has also been recognized for its commitment to sustainability, and the campus features numerous green initiatives, including a 12-acre organic farm.

What are the most popular school clubs at Vassar College?

Vassar College has a wide range of clubs and organizations catering to various interests. Some of the most popular ones include the Vassar Political Review, Vassar Debate Society, Vassar Haiti Project, Vassar Outdoor Club, Vassar Greens, Vassar Christian Fellowship, Vassar Jewish Union, Vassar College Democrats, Vassar College Republicans, and Vassar Animal Rights Coalition. There are many other clubs available as well, and students are also encouraged to start their own organizations.

Is the campus at Vassar College safe?

The campus at Vassar College is generally considered safe. The college has a dedicated campus safety team and partners with local law enforcement to maintain a safe environment for students, faculty, and staff. However, as with any college or university, it is important to take normal precautions to ensure personal safety, such as not walking alone at night and being aware of your surroundings. Vassar also offers resources such as a safety escort service and emergency call boxes throughout campus.