Saint Anselm College
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#72
Up 24 from 2026
Acceptance rate
78.0%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$48,920
$65,940 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
2,094
Student-faculty ratio 12:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
82.0%
4-year; 6-year rate 85.3%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Saint Anselm College, located in Manchester, New Hampshire, is a private Catholic liberal arts college that has been dedicated to providing a holistic education since its founding in 1889 by the Benedictine Monks of Saint Anselm Abbey. One of the most distinctive features of the college is its commitment to a liberal arts education, which encourages students to engage in critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and interdisciplinary studies. The college's motto, "Ut in Omnibus Glorificetur Deus," translates to "That in all things God may be glorified," reflecting its mission to integrate faith and reason in the pursuit of knowledge.
The campus is known for its picturesque setting, complemented by modern facilities that support both academic and extracurricular activities. The Geisel Library and the New Hampshire Institute of Politics are among the notable resources available to students. In addition to a robust academic curriculum, students at Saint Anselm College enjoy a vibrant campus life, with numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic programs that foster community and personal growth. The college is also recognized for its strong emphasis on service and leadership, preparing graduates to excel in their careers and contribute positively to society. With a strong network of alumni and partnerships, Saint Anselm College graduates are well-equipped for successful careers in various fields, including business, healthcare, education, and public service.
Analysis of Key Metrics at Saint Anselm College
Saint Anselm College, a private institution, has experienced notable trends in tuition fees, graduation rates, and retention rates over the years. The tuition fees for undergraduate students have consistently increased from $34,994 in 2014 to $46,810 in 2024, marking a significant rise of approximately 34%. This trend reflects a broader national issue where college costs continue to escalate, potentially making higher education less accessible for many families.
In contrast to the rising tuition, the graduation rates have shown a positive trend. The on-time graduation rate increased from 71.7% in 2013 to 80.7% in 2023. This improvement suggests that the college is effectively supporting students in completing their degrees in a timely manner, which can enhance the institution's reputation and attract prospective students. The 150% graduation rate, which considers students who graduate within six years, also saw an improvement, rising from 74.0% in 2013 to 83.6% in 2023.
Retention rates have remained relatively stable, hovering around 88-90% in recent years. In 2023, the retention rate was reported at 89.4%. High retention rates indicate that students are satisfied with their academic experience and are choosing to continue their education at the same institution, which is a critical component of student success and institutional stability.
Overall, while Saint Anselm College faces challenges with rising tuition, the concurrent improvements in graduation and retention rates highlight its commitment to student success. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, it is imperative that institutions like Saint Anselm balance affordability with quality education to serve their students effectively.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Suburb of a midsize city
- Nearest major city
- Boston, about 50 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), about 50 mi
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Roman Catholic
- President
- Dr. Joseph A. Favazza (President)
- Phone
- 6036417000
- City
- Manchester, New Hampshire
- Address
- 100 Saint Anselm Drive, Manchester, NH 03102-1310
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 80.3%, women 72.0%.
Best #72, lowest #96, latest #72 over the last ten years.
Data insights
Analysis of Admission Trends at Saint Anselm College
Saint Anselm College has demonstrated a fluctuating admission landscape over the years, as illustrated by the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants. The data reveals a noticeable trend where the male acceptance rate varied from approximately 70.6% in 2009 to a peak of around 81.3% in 2019. Female acceptance rates also showed similar fluctuations, ranging from about 69.3% to 84.2% in the same period.
The enrollment numbers indicate a steady interest in the college, with a peak enrollment of 591 students in 2019, coinciding with one of the highest acceptance rates. This suggests that when the college is more accommodating, it tends to attract a larger pool of students. However, it must be noted that the number of applicants who were denied entry remained significant, peaking at over 1,180 in 2012. This reflects the competitive nature of admissions despite high acceptance rates.
Notably, the number of deferred admissions has been consistently high, indicating a cautious approach by the college in managing its applicant pool. This practice can be beneficial in maintaining academic standards while also allowing students additional time to prepare for college life.
As of 2024, the college's ranking has dropped to 89, which may influence future admission decisions and applicant perceptions. The fluctuating rates, combined with the declining rank, suggest that Saint Anselm College may need to reassess its recruitment strategies to maintain its appeal to prospective students, particularly amidst a highly competitive higher education landscape.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 19% submitted SAT, 1% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admission Test Scores and Participation at Saint Anselm College
The data from Saint Anselm College reveals a notable trend in both the submission of standardized test scores and the corresponding scores of admitted students over the years. From 2007 to 2023, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores showed a significant decline. For instance, in 2007, nearly 99% of applicants submitted their SAT scores, while by 2023, this figure dropped to only 20%. This decline may reflect broader trends in higher education, where many institutions are shifting towards test-optional policies, potentially impacting student participation.
Examining the score ranges, the 25th percentile and 75th percentile scores for SAT Reading and Mathematics exhibited variability. In 2007, the SAT Reading scores ranged from 500 to 600, while by 2023, these scores increased to a range of 560 to 650, indicating a potential rise in the academic preparedness of admitted students. The 25th percentile score for SAT Mathematics also displayed an upward trend, suggesting that the institution's applicant pool is becoming more competitive over the years.
This increase in score ranges, alongside the declining submission rates, raises questions about the shifting dynamics of college admissions. It suggests a growing emphasis on holistic admissions criteria, where test scores may play a diminished role in evaluating a student's potential for success. Overall, these trends highlight significant changes in the admissions landscape at Saint Anselm College, reflecting broader national conversations about the value of standardized testing in higher education.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
4,423 applicants in 2025, 78.0% admitted
3,452 admitted 971 not admitted Yield 16.5%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Criminal Law and Procedure · Master's15 (0% international)
- Special Education and Teaching, General · Master's4 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Rates by Major at Saint Anselm College
The graduation data from Saint Anselm College reveals significant trends in various fields of study for the academic year 2023. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with the highest number of graduates, totaling 84, indicating a strong demand for healthcare professionals. This aligns with the ongoing global emphasis on health services and the nursing shortage, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has heightened awareness around the importance of healthcare workers.
In the realm of business education, several programs, including Business/Commerce and Marketing, have demonstrated robust graduation numbers, collectively producing 89 graduates. This trend reflects the growing interest in business careers, which are often perceived as stable and lucrative, especially in a recovering economy. The presence of one international student in business highlights the global appeal of this field.
On the other hand, fields such as Psychology and Education show modest numbers, with 24 graduates each. This could suggest a saturation in these areas, or perhaps a reflective shift in student interests towards more marketable disciplines like nursing or business.
Interestingly, no doctoral or master's degrees were awarded across several popular fields, which might indicate a gap in advanced studies or a preference for direct entry into the workforce. The absence of international graduates in many programs further emphasizes the need for institutions to enhance their appeal to global students, which is crucial for diversifying the academic environment and enriching the learning experience.
Overall, the data from Saint Anselm College outlines a landscape where healthcare-related programs dominate, while traditional liberal arts and sciences seem to be experiencing a decline in graduation rates. This pattern invites further exploration into how educational institutions can adapt their programs to better meet student needs and market demands.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | $60,862 | ||
| Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other. | - | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Finance, General. | $65,765 | ||
| International Business/Trade/Commerce. | - | ||
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | - | ||
| Marketing/Marketing Management, General. | $64,542 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Public Health, General. | - | ||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $83,607 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology. | $43,739 | ||
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| International Relations and Affairs. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | $41,075 | ||
| Sociology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | $45,981 | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Conservation Biology. | - | ||
| Neuroscience. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Special Education and Teaching, General. | - | ||
| Elementary Education and Teaching. | $45,905 | ||
| Teacher Education, Multiple Levels. | $45,905 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speech Communication and Rhetoric. | $43,773 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Studies. | - | ||
| Criminal Law and Procedure. | $54,474 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forensic Chemistry. | - | ||
| Physics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological and Physical Sciences. | - | ||
| Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution. | - | ||
| Classical, Ancient Mediterranean, and Near Eastern Studies and Archaeology. | - | ||
| Data Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | $43,625 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Computer Science. | $53,789 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | ||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - | ||
| Fine/Studio Arts, General. | - | ||
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cyber/Computer Forensics and Counterterrorism. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | $48,949 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| French Language and Literature. | - | ||
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - | ||
| Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Humanities/Humanistic Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| American/United States Studies/Civilization. | - |
Students
2,111 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 41:59 · Freshman retention 88.1%
- Continuing undergraduates 1,472
- First-year undergraduates 567
- Graduate students 17
- Transfers and others 55
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (2,094)
Data insights
Student Demographics at Saint Anselm College in 2023
The student demographics at Saint Anselm College for the year 2023 reveal a diverse and predominantly female population across various categories. The data indicates that among the undergraduate freshmen, there are 528 students, with females constituting 58.7% of this group, while males make up 41.3%. This trend continues with the undergraduate juniors, where females represent 61.1% of the 1,389 students.
Interestingly, while the overall numbers of undergraduate students show a significant female majority, the undergraduate transfer students present a more balanced gender ratio, with males making up 55.3% of the 38 students in this category. This shift might reflect the different motivations and pathways of transfer students compared to those entering as freshmen or continuing their studies.
Graduate students also reflect a similar trend, with 61.1% being female among the 18 students. These statistics highlight a consistent pattern of higher female enrollment across most categories, which aligns with national trends in higher education where women are increasingly pursuing advanced degrees and undergraduate studies.
The data also categorizes students by race and ethnicity, although specific figures for these demographics have not been fully disclosed in the current dataset. Understanding the ethnic composition is crucial as it can provide insights into the college's commitment to diversity and inclusivity.
In summary, the 2023 student demographics at Saint Anselm College showcase a strong female presence, particularly among undergraduates, while also hinting at broader trends in higher education that prioritize diversity and gender balance.
Age Demographics at Saint Anselm College in 2023
The age demographics at Saint Anselm College reveal a significant concentration of students in the younger age brackets, primarily between 18 and 21 years old. The data indicates that approximately 66% of the undergraduate males and 70% of the undergraduate females fall within the 18-21 age range. This trend reflects the traditional college demographic, where most students are expected to enter higher education directly after high school.
Interestingly, there is a notable decline in student numbers as the age increases. For instance, only 8% of the total male students are aged 22-24, and this percentage drops even further for older age groups. This demographic shift could suggest that Saint Anselm College attracts a younger student body, potentially due to its programs, campus culture, or recruitment strategies.
Moreover, the absence of students in the 25-29 age bracket for graduate males and the minimal presence of students aged 30-34 suggests that the college may not be a primary choice for non-traditional or older students pursuing further education. This dynamic could reflect broader trends in higher education where younger individuals are more likely to pursue undergraduate degrees, while older students may opt for online or part-time programs that better accommodate their schedules.
Overall, the age distribution data at Saint Anselm College highlights the institution's focus on traditional college-age students, a trend that aligns with many institutions across the United States. Understanding these demographics can help the college tailor its programs and services to better meet the needs of its student population.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
20 in 2025 · 0.7% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2022
Data insights
Analysis of International Student Enrollment at Saint Anselm College
The data reflects a notable trend in the international student enrollment at Saint Anselm College over nearly two decades. From 2004 to 2023, the number of international undergraduate students fluctuated, reaching a peak in 2019 with 17 students, which represented 0.84% of the total undergraduate population. However, this percentage has generally remained low, averaging around 0.6% over the years, indicating a limited presence of international students in the undergraduate program.
This trend may be influenced by various factors, including the college's geographical location, its academic offerings, and the competitive landscape of higher education in the United States. As many institutions have aggressively sought to attract international students, Saint Anselm College appears to be lagging. The decline in international student enrollment in recent years, particularly in 2021 when only six international students were reported, raises concerns about the college's appeal to global learners.
On the graduate level, the data shows a more significant international presence, although the figures remain sparse with only 23 students reported in 2022 and 18 in 2023. The lack of comprehensive data for graduate students throughout the years limits a thorough analysis, but it suggests that the college may need to enhance its outreach and support services for international students to foster a more diverse academic environment.
Overall, the fluctuating numbers highlight a critical area for Saint Anselm College to address in its strategic planning. Increasing international student enrollment can enhance cultural diversity, enrich the academic experience for all students, and bolster the institution's global reputation.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$65,940
- Undergraduate tuition
- $48,920
- Room and board
- $17,020
- Graduate tuition
- $21,348
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 30% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 28%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$124M
Expenses$93.3M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Northeast 10 Conference
Northeast 10 Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 144 | 136 |
| Football | 132 | - |
| Lacrosse | 49 | 37 |
| Soccer | 38 | 39 |
| Ice Hockey | 31 | 25 |
| Baseball | 47 | - |
| Field Hockey | - | 30 |
| Basketball | 14 | 15 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Golf | 12 | 7 |
| Tennis | - | 16 |
| Volleyball | - | 15 |
| Bowling | - | 9 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 128 | - |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 60 | 54 |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 59 | 55 |
| Lacrosse | 58 | 36 |
| Soccer | 40 | 36 |
| Ice Hockey | 30 | 28 |
| Cross Country | 20 | 22 |
| Baseball | 38 | - |
| Field Hockey | - | 29 |
| Basketball | 15 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 23 |
| Golf | 10 | 9 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Tennis | - | 12 |
| Bowling | - | 7 |
| NCAA Division II with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 128 | - |
| Lacrosse | 49 | 36 |
| Soccer | 40 | 32 |
| Ice Hockey | 31 | 28 |
| Cross Country | 26 | 24 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Field Hockey | - | 29 |
| Basketball | 15 | 13 |
| Softball | - | 21 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Golf | 12 | 5 |
| Tennis | - | 12 |
| Bowling | - | 6 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Tufts UniversityMedford · 44.5 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Brandeis UniversityWaltham · 44.7 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Harvard UniversityCambridge · 46.6 mi
U.S. News #3
-
Boston CollegeChestnut Hill · 48.1 mi
U.S. News #31
-
Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyCambridge · 48.1 mi
U.S. News #1
-
Boston UniversityBoston · 48.3 mi
U.S. News #34
-
Wellesley CollegeWellesley · 49.1 mi
Liberal Arts #10
-
Northeastern UniversityBoston · 49.4 mi
U.S. News #42
-
College of the Holy CrossWorcester · 54.0 mi
Liberal Arts #22
Data insights
Here are some notable institutions near Saint Anselm College:
-
Harvard University - Ranked 3rd in the 2024 US News rankings, Harvard is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, known for its extensive research programs and diverse academic offerings.
-
Massachusetts Institute of Technology - With a rank of 2, MIT is renowned for its cutting-edge research and innovation in science and technology, making it a leader in engineering and applied sciences.
-
Tufts University - Ranked 40th, Tufts offers a unique blend of liberal arts and sciences, along with a strong emphasis on global education and civic engagement.
-
Dartmouth College - This Ivy League institution is ranked 18th and is known for its commitment to undergraduate education, offering a close-knit community and rigorous academic programs.
-
Wellesley College - Ranked 4th among liberal arts colleges, Wellesley is a women's college that emphasizes leadership and academic excellence, fostering a supportive environment for women scholars.
These schools not only offer esteemed academic programs but also contribute significantly to the educational landscape of the region.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Trends in Campus Crime at Saint Anselm College
Analyzing the crime data from Saint Anselm College reveals significant fluctuations in crime rates over the years from 2013 to 2023. The average rate of offenses per 1,000 students peaked in 2017 at 5.67%, showing a concerning upward trend that year. However, since 2018, there has been a notable decline in crime rates, reaching a low of 0.72% in 2021. This dramatic drop could be attributed to a variety of factors, including heightened campus security measures, increased awareness and education regarding personal safety, and possibly even the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to reduced campus activity.
In recent years, particularly from 2021 onwards, the data indicates a steady increase in crime rates again, with a 2.00% rate in 2022 and a slight decrease to 1.74% in 2023. The types of crimes reported include serious incidents like sexual offenses, drug-related arrests, and alcohol-related incidents, which are common across many college campuses.
It's essential for institutions to continuously monitor these statistics and adapt their safety protocols accordingly. Engaging students in discussions about safety, reporting, and prevention can also foster a community more vigilant about crime. Overall, while there have been improvements in certain years, the fluctuations highlight the ongoing need for proactive measures to ensure student safety and well-being. For further insights into calculating these crime rates, you can refer to this link.
Notable Alumni
All 24Notable alumni of Saint Anselm College include Karoline Leavitt (36th White House press secretary), Gérald Lacroix (Canadian cardinal, Archbishop of Quebec) and Thomas J. Dodd (U.S. senator from Connecticut and attorney).
-
Karoline Leavitt 1997–
36th White House press secretary
-
Gérald Lacroix 1957–
Canadian cardinal, Archbishop of Quebec
-
Thomas J. Dodd 1907–1971
U.S. senator from Connecticut and attorney
-
Michael Buckley 1975–
Former YouTuber known for vlog What the Buck?!
-
Joseph John Gerry 1928–2023
Benedictine monk and auxiliary bishop
-
Harvey C. Barnum, Jr. 1940–
Marine officer and Vietnam War Medal of Honor recipient
-
Nicholas Samra 1944–
Former Melkite Greek Catholic Eparch of Newton
-
Robert Joseph Shaheen 1937–2017
Maronite Catholic bishop
-
Louis A. Bafalis 1929–2023
U.S. representative from Florida
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.