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Private nonprofit, 4-year

Elmira College

Elmira, New York · www.elmira.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

77.0%

2025

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$40,896

$55,446 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

745

Student-faculty ratio 11:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

52.7%

4-year; 6-year rate 55.6%

Peer median 45.1%

“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Elmira College, located in Elmira, New York, is a private liberal arts college that has established a strong reputation for its commitment to academic excellence and student-centered learning. Founded in 1855, it is one of the oldest institutions of higher education for women in the United States. The college’s motto, “To Know, To Love, To Serve,” reflects its dedication to fostering not only intellectual growth but also character development and community service among its students. Elmira College offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning, which allows students to engage in internships, research projects, and community service activities that enhance their academic experience.

The campus boasts a vibrant student life, enriched by a variety of extracurricular activities, including clubs, organizations, and athletic programs. Elmira College has a strong commitment to athletics, featuring various sports teams that compete in NCAA Division III. The college also promotes a culture of inclusivity and diversity, welcoming students from different backgrounds and fostering a sense of belonging within the community. With its picturesque campus, dedicated faculty, and supportive environment, Elmira College prepares its graduates for successful careers and active citizenship, making it a nurturing ground for future leaders.

Analysis of Key Metrics at Elmira College

Elmira College has exhibited notable trends in several critical metrics over the years, particularly tuition costs, student enrollment, graduation rates, and retention rates.

Firstly, the tuition for undergraduate students has generally increased, peaking at $41,900 for both in-state and out-of-state students in 2017 and 2018. However, there was a significant dip in 2020, dropping to $35,400, likely influenced by the economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This fluctuation reflects broader national trends where many institutions adjusted tuition in response to changing economic conditions and student enrollment patterns.

Moreover, student enrollment has shown a concerning decline, with undergraduate numbers dropping from 1,410 in 2014 to just 609 in 2023. This stark decrease raises questions about the college's attractiveness and whether it can effectively compete for students in an increasingly crowded higher education landscape. Such a drop could have implications for funding and resources, as fewer students typically lead to reduced tuition revenue.

In terms of graduation rates, Elmira College saw a positive uptick in on-time graduation rates reaching 62.6% in 2023, compared to 55.5% in 2015. This improvement indicates a potential enhancement in student support and academic resources, which is essential for maintaining institutional reputation and attracting new students.

Retention rates have also fluctuated, with a high of 82.1% in 2015, but a decline to approximately 74.3% in 2023. While still relatively strong, the decrease over the years could signal issues regarding student satisfaction or engagement.

In summary, while Elmira College has made strides in graduation rates, the significant drop in student enrollment alongside fluctuating retention rates poses challenges that the institution must address to ensure its long-term sustainability.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Small city
Nearest major city
Syracuse, about 70 mi
Nearest international airport
Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), about 80 mi
Elmira, New York
Also known as
EC
Academic calendar
4-1-4
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Dr. Charles W. Lindsay (President)
Phone
6077351800
City
Elmira, New York
Address
One Park Place, Elmira, NY 14901

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
76.2%
Women
78.0%

In 2020: men 76.3%, women 82.2%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at Elmira College

The admission data for Elmira College over the years reveals significant trends in acceptance rates, enrollment numbers, and applicant outcomes. Notably, the acceptance rate for male applicants has shown a steady increase, rising from approximately 73% in 2009 to an impressive 94% in 2023. This suggests that the college has become more accommodating to male students, possibly reflecting a strategic shift in recruitment efforts to balance gender enrollment.
Female applicants have also experienced a relatively high acceptance rate, which climbed from about 80% to nearly 97% in the same period. The consistent high acceptance rates for both genders indicate that Elmira College is striving to attract a diverse student body, while also managing its capacity effectively.
Enrollment numbers have fluctuated throughout the years, with a peak of 440 students in 2011. The most recent data indicates a decline in enrollment, with only 172 students admitted in 2023. This decline could be attributed to various factors, including changing demographics, evolving educational preferences, or increased competition among colleges, especially in a post-pandemic landscape where students are more selective and cautious about their choices.
Furthermore, the number of applicants being denied admission has seen a general decline over the years, which aligns with the increasing acceptance rates. The college's ability to defer applicants has also come into play, indicating a possible strategy to manage enrollments without completely turning away students.
Overall, the trends reflect Elmira College's adaptive approach to admissions, aiming to foster a welcoming environment for both male and female students while navigating the challenges of enrollment management amidst a competitive higher education landscape.

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 6% submitted SAT, 3% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total1090–1385Peer median 1220
ACT composite26–29
SAT Reading
568–694
600700800
SAT Math
522–691
600700800
ACT composite
26–29
253036

Data insights

Trends in Admission Test Scores at Elmira College

The admission data from Elmira College over the years presents a compelling narrative about the changing landscape of standardized test scores among applicants. Notably, there is a significant fluctuation in both the number of students submitting test scores and the score ranges themselves.

From 2007 to 2013, the college saw a consistent number of applicants submitting SAT scores, peaking at 99% of applicants in 2008. During this period, the 25th to 75th percentile SAT scores remained relatively stable, indicating a consistent caliber of applicants. However, starting from 2014, we observe a noticeable decline in both the proportion of applicants submitting SAT scores and the scores themselves. By 2023, only 17% of applicants submitted SAT scores, a dramatic drop compared to previous years.

Moreover, the score ranges have also shifted. For instance, while the 25th percentile SAT Reading score was as high as 510 in 2007, it fell to 446 by 2021 and 2022, only to slightly bounce back in 2023 to 553. This trend may reflect broader changes in educational practices, the increasing test-optional policies adopted by many institutions, and perhaps a shift in the demographics of college applicants.

The decline in standardized testing participation aligns with national trends where colleges are increasingly moving towards a holistic review process, emphasizing diverse experiences and skills over mere test scores. As Elmira College continues to adapt, it may need to reassess its admissions strategies to attract a broader pool of talent while maintaining academic standards.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 8 in 10

2,674 applicants in 2025, 77.0% admitted

2,058 admitted 616 not admitted Yield 12.3%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate140 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's13510 international (7.4%)
Master's261 international (3.8%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Business Administration and Management, General
24
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
22
Psychology, General
14
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
12
Elementary Education and Teaching
10
Human Services, General
9
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration
7
Biological and Physical Sciences
7
Education, Other
4
Fine/Studio Arts, General
3

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Business Administration and Management, General · Master's14 (7% international)
  • Secondary Education and Teaching · Master's5 (0% international)
  • Reading Teacher Education · Master's4 (0% international)
  • Education, General · Master's3 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data at Elmira College

The graduation data from Elmira College in 2023 reveals several noteworthy trends across academic disciplines. The Registered Nursing program stands out with 36 graduates, indicating a strong interest in healthcare careers, which is consistent with national trends highlighting the increasing demand for nursing professionals. Furthermore, the prominence of education-related degrees is evident, with various programs such as Secondary Education, Reading Teacher Education, and Elementary Education collectively contributing significantly to the graduation numbers, showcasing the institution's commitment to training future educators.

Interestingly, the data also highlights the low representation of international students among graduates, particularly in the master's and doctorate categories, where no international students graduated this year. This could suggest potential challenges in attracting international scholars, perhaps influenced by recent global events or immigration policies, which warrant further investigation.

Moreover, the data indicates that while certain fields like nursing and education have robust graduation rates, other areas, such as the arts and social sciences, show limited participation. This imbalance raises important questions about curriculum offerings and student engagement in these disciplines. Overall, Elmira College's graduation statistics reflect broader societal shifts towards healthcare and education, while also pointing to areas for growth and improvement in international student enrollment and diverse academic offerings.

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

Businesshas 45 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Business Administration and Management, General.$51,427-$53,771
Accounting.-
Accounting and Finance.-
Actuarial Science.-
Educationhas 37 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Education, General.-
Education/Teaching of Individuals with Speech or Language Impairments.-
Education/Teaching of Individuals in Elementary Special Education Programs.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Secondary Education and Teaching.-
Reading Teacher Education.-
Chemistry Teacher Education.-
Earth Science Teacher Education.-
Education, Other.-
Health professionshas 26 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Audiology/Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathology/Pathologist.-
Clinical Laboratory Science/Medical Technology/Technologist.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$90,811
Public administrationhas 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Human Services, General.-
Psychology has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Psychology, General.$38,404
Biologyhas 12 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.-
Homeland security has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement Administration.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Biological and Physical Sciences.-
Natural resources has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Environmental Science.-
Visual and Performing artshas 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Fine/Studio Arts, General.-
Liberal arts has 3 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Social sciencehas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Political Science and Government, General.-
Social Sciences, Other.-
Communication has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Communication and Media Studies, Other.-
History has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
History, General.-
Mathmatics and statistics has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
Mathematics, General.-
English has 1 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMaster
English Language and Literature, General.-

Students

786 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 33:67 · Freshman retention 69.8%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (745)

White
494 · 66.3%
Hispanic
63 · 8.5%
Unknown
52 · 7.0%
International
46 · 6.2%
Black
37 · 5.0%
Two or more races
28 · 3.8%
Asian
23 · 3.1%

Data insights

2023 Elmira College Student Demographics Overview

The student demographics at Elmira College for the year 2023 reveal significant insights into the composition of the student body. Among undergraduate freshmen, there are 172 students, with a gender distribution showing that 41.3% are male and 58.7% are female. This trend of higher female representation continues among undergraduate juniors, where females account for 70% of the 404 students.

The data for undergraduate transfer students indicates a smaller group of 27, with a gender ratio of 33.3% males and 66.7% females. This pattern is consistent across graduate students as well, where 48 students are enrolled, with 37.5% being male and 62.5% female. The overall trends suggest that Elmira College has a predominantly female student population across different categories, which aligns with broader national trends in higher education where women are increasingly enrolling in colleges and universities.

In terms of racial and ethnic diversity, the data shows that while the total figures for each category are not completely available, the presence of white students is significant, particularly among undergraduates. The college's commitment to diversity can be inferred from the variety of demographic representations, despite the limited data on non-white groups.

Overall, this demographic snapshot highlights Elmira College's continued trend toward a diverse and predominantly female student body, reflecting changes in educational participation and gender dynamics in higher education.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at Elmira College

The age distribution of students at Elmira College in 2023 reveals a notable trend towards younger demographics, particularly among undergraduates. The majority of students fall within the 18-21 age range, accounting for 54.5% of the total male population and a striking 83.2% of the total female population. This could indicate a robust influx of traditional-aged college students, which is consistent with broader trends in higher education where younger individuals are increasingly pursuing undergraduate degrees directly after high school.

Interestingly, as students age, the numbers dwindle significantly. For instance, only 13% of male students and 14% of female students are aged between 25-29. This aligns with national statistics that suggest older adults are less likely to enroll in traditional college settings, often opting for part-time or online education instead.

The presence of a small yet interesting population of graduate students, particularly among the 22-24 age group, signifies that Elmira College also attracts individuals seeking advanced degrees, although the numbers remain modest. This could reflect the institution's reputation in certain fields of study or the local demographic's educational aspirations.

Overall, the composition hints at a vibrant and youthful academic environment. However, it also underscores the need for colleges to develop programs that cater to non-traditional students, particularly as the demographic landscape of higher education continues to evolve. Emphasizing support for older students could enhance enrollment diversity and enrich the campus community, ultimately benefiting all students through a broader exchange of experiences and perspectives.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates6.2%

46 in 2025 · 5.0% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 5.0%2017: 4.5%2018: 3.7%2019: 4.0%2020: 4.3%2021: 4.2%2022: 5.4%2023: 7.6%2024: 10.4%2025: 6.2%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students2.4%

1 in 2025 · 3.4% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 3.4%2017: 4.7%2018: 2.7%2019: 2.7%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 2.1%2024: 11.4%2025: 2.4%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

International Student Trends at Elmira College

The data on international students at Elmira College reveals some intriguing trends over the years. Starting from 2004, the number of international undergraduate students has fluctuated, with a marked increase in the percentage of international students among undergraduates in recent years. For instance, in 2023, the percentage of international students reached 7.55%, the highest recorded in the dataset. This increase can be seen as a positive sign of Elmira College's growing appeal to a global audience.

On the graduate level, however, the data presents a different picture. The number of international graduate students has remained relatively low, with the highest recorded percentage being 4.65% in 2017. This inconsistency might suggest that while the undergraduate program is successfully attracting international students, the graduate program may need to enhance its visibility or offerings to capture more interest.

This trend aligns with broader patterns observed in higher education, where many institutions are actively seeking to diversify their student bodies by attracting more international students. Factors such as global networking opportunities, cultural exchange, and the potential for a richer educational experience are all driving forces behind this trend.

As Elmira College continues to adapt to the changing landscape of international education, it will be crucial for the institution to develop strategies that not only attract but also retain international students across all levels of study. This could involve enhanced support services, targeted recruitment efforts, and a focus on creating an inclusive campus environment that celebrates diversity.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$55,446

Undergraduate tuition
$40,896
Room and board
$14,550
Graduate tuition
$17,229
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose 2% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 21%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$26.2M

Tuition and fees
$10.4M39.8%
Auxiliary enterprises
$8.9M34.0%
Gifts and private grants
$3.9M14.7%
Investment return
$2.4M9.2%
Government grants and contracts
$620K2.4%

Expenses$31.5M

Institutional support
$11.7M37.2%
Student services
$10.4M33.0%
Instruction
$7.5M23.9%
Academic support
$1.4M4.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$508K1.6%

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.

All faculty
$46,592peers $65,931
Professor
$53,773peers $77,501
Associate professor
$47,447peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$43,445peers $61,725
Instructor
$39,667peers $53,914
Lecturer
$43,633peers $60,000

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Empire Eight

Empire Eight: basketball, baseball

2025
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer4132
Ice Hockey2827
Other Sports-48
Basketball2121
Baseball39-
Wrestling1622
Lacrosse2017
Volleyball1618
Softball-27
Field Hockey-15
2024
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer4124
Ice Hockey2526
Baseball40-
Wrestling1021
Volleyball1315
Basketball1314
Softball-26
Field Hockey-16
Golf10-
2023
NCAA Division III without footballMENWOMEN
Soccer3727
Ice Hockey2827
Baseball39-
Basketball1717
Volleyball1220
Wrestling918
Softball-19
Field Hockey-16
Golf10-

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools surrounding Elmira College:

  1. Cornell University - Ranked 12th in the 2024 US News rankings, Cornell is a prestigious Ivy League university known for its strong academic programs and diverse student body.

  2. Syracuse University - With a rank of 67, Syracuse is a well-regarded research university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly noted for its communications and business schools.

  3. University of Rochester - Ranked 49th, this university is recognized for its rigorous research initiatives and strong programs in the sciences, engineering, and music.

  4. Hamilton College - A highly ranked liberal arts college at 16, Hamilton is known for its strong emphasis on writing and critical thinking, offering a personalized education experience.

  5. Lehigh University - With a rank of 47, Lehigh is a private research university known for its engineering, business, and arts programs, providing a vibrant campus life.

These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and are highly regarded in their respective fields.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor referrals
39
Drug referrals
18
Liquor arrests
6
Burglary
5
Drug arrests
3
Fondling
1

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Elmira College

The crime statistics at Elmira College over the past decade reveal a concerning trend, particularly in the years leading up to 2022. The average number of crimes reported per 1000 students has seen a significant increase, peaking at 75.78 in 2022. This figure indicates a dramatic rise in the crime rate compared to earlier years, such as 2013, when the rate was only 4.18 per 1000 students.

The data shows that while the institution experienced fluctuations in crime rates, the overall trajectory points to an alarming escalation. Notably, incidents of drug-related arrests and alcohol violations appear to be among the most prevalent issues, reflecting a broader trend seen across many college campuses in the United States.

The spike in crime rates during 2022 could be attributed to a variety of factors, including the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have altered student behavior and campus dynamics. Additionally, increased awareness and reporting could contribute to the observed rise in statistics.

It is crucial for college administrations to implement effective safety measures and support systems to address these growing concerns. Better campus security, educational programs on substance abuse, and mental health support could help mitigate these issues. As the data illustrates, proactive steps are essential to ensure student safety and well-being on campus.

For further details on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

Notable Alumni

Notable alumni of Elmira College include Fay Kanin (Screenwriter and Academy of Motion Picture Arts president), Alice Mary Robertson (First woman in Congress from Oklahoma) and Lena Guilbert Ford (Lyricist and poet, wrote Keep the Home Fires Burning).

More alumni (7, by field)

Politics and law

Science and academia

  • Charlotte Blake Brown 1846–1904

    Early West Coast woman physician and hospital co-founder

    Also attended: Drexel University

Arts and media

  • Agnes Hewes 1874–1963

    Children's writer, three-time Newbery runner-up

Sports

  • Michael Bryant 1995–

    Professional soccer player

Other fields

From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.

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.