Clinton, NY · Admissions

Hamilton College

Acceptance Rate & How to Get In

Hamilton College has a 13.6% acceptance rate, making it highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant. Admitted students score around 1440–1510 on the SAT. Here is what the numbers say it takes to get in.

13.6%
Acceptance rate
1440–1510
SAT (mid 50%)
33–35
ACT (mid 50%)
Test-optional
Testing

How hard is it to get into Hamilton College?

With a 13.6% acceptance rate, Hamilton College is highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant. It enrolls roughly 2,031 undergraduates (rural setting) in Clinton, NY. At this level, strong grades and scores are the baseline, not the differentiator — your essays and what makes you distinctive carry real weight.

What it takes to get in

  • SAT: admitted students land around 1440–1510 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
  • ACT: the middle 50% is about 33–35.
  • Testing policy: Test-optional. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
  • Essays: at Hamilton College's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $68,960 per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Government · Economics · Mathematics · Writing

See the Common App personal-statement guide

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Hamilton College admissions FAQ

What is Hamilton College's acceptance rate?
Hamilton College's acceptance rate is 13.6%, which makes it highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for Hamilton College?
Admitted students typically score about 1440–1510 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 33–35 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is Hamilton College test-optional?
Hamilton College's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on Hamilton College’s official admissions site.