Frequently Asked Questions
We’re here to help.
Still have questions? Contact Admissions at admissions@alma.edu or 800-321-ALMA.
About Alma
What makes Alma College unique?
At Alma College, we believe in the power of extraordinary experiences.
- As part of the Alma Commitment, every Alma student qualifies for up to $2,500 to pursue an original research project, internship or off-campus study experience designed to meet their personal and professional development goals.
- Our one-month Spring Term courses in May cross geographical, cultural or disciplinary boundaries, whether you’re in the classroom, across the country, or around the world!
- Alma offers STEM research opportunities not typically available to undergraduate students, including through our on-campus cadaver lab, engineering lab, nursing simulation lab, and 200-acre ecological station.
- The Center for College and Community Engagement (3CE) offers students opportunities to engage, learn and grow in partnership with the local community. Students might mentor local youth, implement a social media campaign in a political advocacy class, or support ecological restoration during an Alternative Break.
Where is Alma College located?
Alma College is located in Alma, MI, right in the center of the Lower Peninsula and about one hour north of Michigan’s capital, Lansing, MI.
How many students attend Alma College?
Alma’s enrollment is 1,235 undergraduate students and 38 graduate students.
What are the school colors?
Maroon and cream.
What is the school’s mascot?
Scotty is the mascot.
Academics
What is the average class size?
Alma students enjoy an average class size of 18 students. Our small classes mean that your educational experience will be highly personalized to your interests and needs, and that your professors will really get to know you.
What academic programs do you offer?
We offer over 50 undergraduate programs in health sciences, business, education, humanities, and performing arts, and flexible graduate programs designed for students who are ready to enhance their network and lead in their field. Visit alma.edu/academics to learn more.
Do you have graduate programs?
Yes, visit https://www.alma.edu/academics/programs/graduate-programs/ to learn more.
Does Alma College have a pre-medicine program?
Yes! As a pre-med student at Alma, you’ll follow a tailored curriculum designed to prepare you for the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) and medical school. You’ll also have access to the Pre-Health Professions Committee (PHPC), a group of expert faculty and administrators, who help guide you through a pre-professional program to prepare you for your chosen career. Learn more at https://www.alma.edu/academics/programs/pre-health-professions/pre-medicine/.
What academic calendar are you on?
Alma has a 4-4-1 academic calendar. Our one-month Spring Term courses in May take advantage of the unique format of the term and cross geographical, cultural or disciplinary boundaries. This means you might find yourself in London studying literature, or in the Ecuadorian Rainforest studying plant life. To learn more about Spring Term, visit https://www.alma.edu/academics/the-alma-commitment/experiential-learning/spring-term/.
Does Alma College have study abroad opportunities?
Spend a semester studying in one of 14 countries around the globe or, if you prefer to remain in the United States, study and intern in one of four metropolitan centers: New York, Philadelphia, Chicago or Washington, D.C. For a full list of locations, visit https://www.alma.edu/academics/the-alma-commitment/experiential-learning/.
What are your most popular majors?
Our top programs are business, education, integrative physiology and health sciences, biology, psychology, computer science, engineering, and pre-law. To learn more about each program, visit https://www.alma.edu/academics/.
Admissions
Do you have an application deadline?
Alma College offers rolling admission. Once your application is complete you will receive your admissions decision in approximately 2 weeks.
Does Alma have an application fee?
The application is free when submitted through Alma’s website or through the Common Application.
How do I schedule a visit to campus?
Students can schedule an individual visit or register for an admissions event on our Connect and Visit page.
Are standardized test scores required for admission?
Alma does not require a standardized test score for admission. Visit alma.edu/apply to learn more.
How long does it take to process my admission application?
It may take up to 1 week for the admissions office to process your application, and we appreciate your patience. After your application has been processed and evaluated, the admissions office will contact you with an admission decision.
What is the school’s acceptance rate?
We have between a 65-68% acceptance rate dependent upon the year.
What are the average ACT and SAT scores for first year students?
The average ACT score of students admitted to Alma College is 22 and the average SAT score of students admitted to Alma College is 1060.
Once I am accepted, how do I access my student portal account?
Students can access their portal account at inside.alma.edu. Your username and temporary password will be emailed to you shortly after your acceptance to Alma.
Does Alma require an enrollment deposit?
Alma requires an enrollment deposit of $300 to reserve your spot in the incoming class. You can visit alma.edu/commit to make your deposit.
Transferring to Alma
How do I apply for admission as a transfer student?
As a transfer student, you can complete the free Alma College application or apply through the Common Application. Visit alma.edu/apply to get started!
How do I get my transcripts evaluated?
If you are transferring to Alma College, a college transcript is required for admission and will be sent to the Registrar’s Office as soon as we receive them. Visit alma.edu/apply to get started!
Will Alma accept my credits?
Alma College accepts credits earned from accredited colleges or universities. Use our transfer credit evaluation tool to see how your credits will transfer. We also participate in the Michigan Transfer Agreement to help you transfer from community colleges.
Financial Aid/Services
What type of academic scholarships do you offer?
Alma College has a variety of merit-based and performance-based scholarships available for all students.
Do you offer a payment plan?
Yes! Learn more at alma.edu/financial-services.
Do you offer athletic scholarships to student athletes?
No. Scholarships are not awarded for athletics. Student athletes may apply for academic and need-based aid. For more information, visit alma.edu/financial-aid.
How much does it cost to attend Alma?
View the Undergraduate Costs and Financial Aid page, and explore the Net Price Calculator.
How do I use my military/veterans benefits?
There are a variety of programs available to veterans. You can check your eligibility for benefits and apply to use them at Alma. After you’ve applied and been approved, work with the School Certifying Official (SCO) to determine what you need to submit to use your benefits. Follow these steps to get started – https://www.alma.edu/admissions/military-and-veterans/.
Athletics
What sports does Alma offer?
We offer 30 athletics teams, 22 sports in Division III, and intramural sports. For a complete list, visit alma.edu/athletics.
What division and conference do you compete in?
Division III, MIAA.
Are there any athletic events that are free?
Athletic events are free for Alma College students, faculty and staff. Visit almascots.com/calendar for a list of upcoming events.
Does the athletics department offer sports camps?
Yes. Alma regularly offers athletic camps throughout the year. Visit https://almascots.com/sports/2023/5/9/camps-index.aspx for more information.
Do you have a spirit squad?
Yes. Alma College does have a spirit squad. Visit https://almascots.com/sports/spirit for more information.
Diversity and Belonging
Is there an LGBTQ+ center on campus?
As part of our commitment to inclusivity, we warmly welcome and support members of the LGBTQ+ community. We believe in the transformative power of embracing all facets of identity, and we actively work to cultivate a campus culture that fosters belonging and acceptance for everyone. Visit this link to explore our resources.
How do you support students of color?
We offer a variety of programs, from living learning communities to mentorship programs, to foster a climate where students of color can grow intellectually, spiritually, and emotionally in a well-supported environment. Visit alma.edu/diversity to learn more.
What diversity programs do you offer?
We embrace the diverse cultures and identities represented in our community by hosting events to recognize days, weeks and months that honor cultural history and traditions. In October, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with Fiesta Baile, featuring Latine cuisine and dance. In November, we celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a drum and dance performance with the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe. Visit alma.edu/diversity to learn more.
Do you offer mental health counseling on campus?
There are mental health counseling resources for all of our students. For more information, visit alma.edu/wilcox-health-center.
Campus Life
What clubs do you have?
From over 100+ clubs and organizations, including intermural sports and an adventure recreation program, to Greek Life and Model UN, Alma has so much to offer! For more information on what student life is like, visit alma.edu/life-at-alma.
Do you have a recreation center?
Yes, we have a community recreation center. Learn more at https://www.alma.edu/life-at-alma/health-and-wellness/campus-recreation/.
Do you have fraternities and sororities?
Alma has 5 social fraternities and 5 social sororities, all with their own on-campus house. The 10 chapters are made up of student leaders, athletes, members of choir, band, theatre, and have representation in nearly all of our clubs and organizations. Learn more at https://www.alma.edu/fraternities-and-sororities/.
Do you offer camps at the college?
Yes, we offer summer camps focused on arts, science, leadership and service, and athletics. Learn more at alma.edu/summer.
Getting a Job After College
Does Alma College offer internships?
Definitely! The Career and Personal Development staff are here to connect you with an experience that matches your skills and plans after Alma. To learn more, visit https://www.alma.edu/career-and-personal-development/.
How will Alma help me get a job?
The Career and Personal Development staff are here to help you get the experiences you need to succeed well beyond your years at Alma. From resume building, interview practice, and connecting you with hiring professionals, we’re here with you every step of the way. To learn more, visit https://www.alma.edu/career-and-personal-development/.
Do you offer work study?
Yes. There is typically a wide range of jobs available for students both on and off campus. If you have been awarded work-study and you’re looking for a job during college or for summer, visit https://www.alma.edu/career-and-personal-development/ to learn more.
What is Alma’s job placement rate?
94% of 2022 graduates were working full time or attending graduate school within six months of graduation.