If you’re reading this, you’re likely wondering if your child has what it takes to get into Colgate University. You’ve come to the right place: we’re going to answer all your questions and more. 

About Colgate University

Colgate University is located in Hamilton, New York, a quaint and charming little town. Most students live on campus, and Colgate has a warm, fuzzy campus atmosphere for students who want to really feel part of a community for four years. There are just north of 3,000 undergraduates at Colgate, so it’s small without being claustrophobically so. 

The acceptance rate at Colgate is 13.9%. That means getting in will require strategic planning (and the help of Ivy Coach’s college admissions experts certainly wouldn’t hurt!). 

Colgate University Admissions Requirements

Obviously, GPA, standardized testing scores, and extracurricular achievements are the key components of a successful application to Colgate University and to any school. That being said, what do these components actually look like for Colgate University admits? Without further ado, let’s dive in!

What Kind of GPA Is Necessary To Get Into Colgate?

The following is the GPA breakdown of the members of Colgate’s Class of 2028, as reported in CU’s 2024-25 Common Data Set:

GPA	Percentage of Colgate University Class of 2028
4.0	26.79%
3.75-3.99	41.70%
3.5-3.74	23.27%
3.25-3.49	6.67%
3.0-3.24	1.45%
2.5-2.99	0.12%
2.0-2.49	0%
1.0-1.99	0%

What Kind of SAT or ACT Scores Are Needed To Get Into Colgate University?

The average SAT score for the Colgate Class of 2028 was a 1490, and the average ACT score was a 34. Colgate is test-optional, and only 37% of applicants that admissions cycle submitted test scores. We at Ivy Coach believe that test-optional policies are nothing more than a happy-go-lucky fable. If you want in at Colgate, definitely nail those tests and submit those scores! 

What Classes Do Students Need to Take to Get Into Colgate?

Colgate lists the following as their minimum academic preparation to be considered for admission: 

Four years of English (especially composition and literature)

Four years of mathematics

At least three years of natural and physical sciences, with a lab

At least three years of social sciences (particularly advanced courses in history)

At least three years of a foreign language

Of course, we at Ivy Coach would not recommend merely three years in any core subject. Highly selective colleges like Colgate want to see students excelling in each core subject (English, history, math, science, and foreign language) all four years of high school. In fact, they expect to see five years for foreign language since most students begin their first level of foreign language in eighth grade.

What Kinds of Extracurriculars Does Colgate University Like To See?

We’re going to clear up a common misunderstanding: highly selective colleges are not looking for well-rounded students. They’re looking for a well-rounded student body comprised of students who are each singularly talented. 

In terms of extracurriculars, that means Colgate University is looking for depth over breadth. If you’re a member of the debate team, the robotics team, the field hockey team, and the drama department…well, then, you’re merely a member of those groups. You don’t stand out in any of these pursuits. Colgate University would much rather accept a nationally ranked debate champ than a kid who spent an hour or two on debate a week because he spent the rest forgetting Shakespeare lines and fumbling the ball in football practice. 

Colgate University Application Requirements

Colgate takes the Common App and Coalition App. They ask for one guidance counsellor recommendation, and two teacher recommendations. Additionally, they ask three supplemental questions: 

1. On Colgate’s campus, students engage with individuals from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds, races, ethnicities, religions, and perspectives during the course of their educational and social experiences. In 250 words or less, please share the benefits you see in engaging with a diverse body of students, faculty, and staff as part of your Colgate experience.
2. Colgate students immerse themselves in social and intellectual pursuits that inspire them. Tell us in 250 words or less what inspires you and why you want to pursue that at Colgate.
3. Please complete the following so we can learn a bit more about you. Each response should be no more than 13 words.
   1. I am fascinated by…
   2. My favorite book, movie, or television show is…
   3. The person I admire most is…
   4. In the future, I hope to …
   5. One historical figure I would like to meet is…
   6. My favorite food is…
   7. One thing I would change is…
   8. My favorite place is…
   9. I am the best version of myself when…
   10. Something that has changed my perspective is…
   11. I am seeking a community that…
   12. My favorite family/community/cultural tradition is…
   13. I am drawn to Colgate University because…

Who Should Students Ask For Letters of Recommendation For Colgate? 

Colgate applicants should ask two teachers, ideally two junior year teachers in core subjects. Obviously, the applicant should have a good relationship with the teacher or at least have performed well in their class. In addition, at least one of the recommenders’ subject area should be related to the student’s hook: if a student’s singular hook is studying fruit fly DNA, it wouldn’t make sense if their recommenders were their History and English teachers. 

Does Colgate University Require An Interview? 

Colgate offers optional interviews with current students. 

What Are Colgate University’s Application Deadlines? 

Early Decision I  applications to Colgate University are due Nov. 1. Early Decision II and Regular Decision applications are due Jan. 15. 

How Ivy Coach Helps Students Get Into Colgate

If you’re interested in discerning if your child has a shot of getting into Colgate University, we recommend setting up Ivy Coach’s Strategy Session. Not only will you find out if your child has a chance of getting into Colgate University, but you’ll receive a game plan of how your child can optimize their admission to the best school possible.