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St. Andrews University has not appeared in the U.S. Department of Education IPEDS directory since 2025, which usually means it has closed or merged with another school. The data on this page is historical and kept for reference.

Private nonprofit, 4-year

St. Andrews University

Laurinburg, North Carolina · www.sa.edu

Acceptance rate

64.8%

2023

Peer median 69.4%

Tuition per year

$32,388

$44,568 with room and board

Peer median $33,770

Undergraduates

628

Student-faculty ratio 16:1

Peer median 11 : 1

Graduation rate

18.8%

4-year; 6-year rate 27.7%

Peer median 45.1%

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

About

St. Andrews University, located in the picturesque town of St. Andrews in Scotland, is the oldest university in Scotland and the third oldest in the English-speaking world, founded in 1413. The university is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and a rich tradition that fosters a vibrant intellectual community. With a student population of around 10,000, St. Andrews offers a diverse array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, sciences, and social sciences. The university's commitment to academic excellence is encapsulated in its motto, "Ever to Excel," which reflects its aspiration for students to reach their highest potential.

The university is also known for its unique campus culture and strong sense of community. The historic town of St. Andrews offers a charming backdrop for student life, complete with medieval architecture, stunning coastal scenery, and a range of cultural activities. The university boasts outstanding facilities, including modern lecture halls, extensive libraries, and specialized laboratories, all designed to enhance the learning experience. In addition, St. Andrews has a vibrant student union and numerous clubs and societies that encourage social engagement and personal development. The university's emphasis on sport is also notable, with a wide range of athletic opportunities available, from golf to sailing, reflecting its coastal location. With a strong reputation among employers, graduates from St. Andrews are highly regarded in the job market, further solidifying the university's status as a leading institution for higher education.

Tuition Trends and Student Outcomes at St. Andrews University

The tuition fees at St. Andrews University have shown a significant upward trend over the years, particularly for undergraduate students. Starting from approximately $23,332 in 2014, the cost for in-state undergraduates has risen to nearly $30,800 by 2024, reflecting an increase of approximately 32% over a decade. This growth in tuition costs may pose a financial burden on students and their families, especially considering that the external economic conditions often dictate the affordability of higher education.

Conversely, the student retention rates have fluctuated during the same period. In 2013, the retention rate was around 70%, but it has since experienced a decline, reaching a low of approximately 42% in 2018. However, it seems to have stabilized around the 59% mark in 2022 and 2023. This retention rate is crucial as it indicates the university's ability to keep students engaged and satisfied with their educational experience. A low retention rate could be a potential red flag for prospective students evaluating their options.

Moreover, graduation rates present another area of concern. The on-time graduation rate saw a dip, with figures hovering around 26% to 33% in recent years, which is relatively low compared to national averages. This statistic is alarming as it suggests that many students are not completing their degrees within the expected timeframe, possibly due to financial strains or academic challenges.

Lastly, the gender ratio among undergraduates has also varied. The male-to-female ratio has balanced out in recent years, indicating an increase in female enrollment, which is an encouraging trend towards gender parity in education. The increasing presence of women in higher education is a positive development, contributing to a more diverse academic environment.

Overall, while St. Andrews University has made strides in increasing enrollment diversity, the challenges posed by rising tuition costs, fluctuating retention rates, and graduation statistics warrant ongoing attention and strategic planning to enhance student success and satisfaction.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Distant town
Nearest major city
Charlotte, about 80 mi
Nearest international airport
Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR), about 80 mi
Laurinburg, North Carolina
Also known as
SAU
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Presbyterian Church (USA)
President
Tarun Malik (Campus President)
Phone
9102775555
City
Laurinburg, North Carolina
Address
1700 Dogwood Mile, Laurinburg, NC 28352

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

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

Acceptance rate by gender, 2023

Men
61.5%
Women
68.2%

In 2020: men 45.5%, women 45.1%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at St. Andrews University

The admission data from St. Andrews University reveals a fluctuating landscape over the years, reflecting broader trends in higher education. Notably, the male admission rate saw a significant decrease, dropping from approximately 62% in 2014 to just over 13% in 2022, indicating heightened competition and possibly a surge in applications. In contrast, the female admission rate showed a similar trend, decreasing from about 66% in 2014 to approximately 12% in 2022.
The total number of enrollments also varied, peaking at 284 in 2021 before declining to 179 in 2023. This could suggest that the university is becoming more selective, aligning with national trends where prestigious institutions are seeing an increase in applications, leading to lower acceptance rates across the board. The spike in denied applications in 2021, with nearly 1,000 rejections, further underscores this increasing competitiveness.
Interestingly, the number of deferrals fluctuated significantly, peaking at 1,142 in 2021, possibly indicating a strategy employed by students to secure a place while opting for a gap year or other personal circumstances. This trend might reflect a growing preference among students for flexibility in their educational journeys.
Overall, these admission statistics highlight the challenges prospective students face in gaining entry to St. Andrews University, as the institution appears to be tightening its admission criteria amidst a rising number of applicants. This scenario mirrors the current higher education climate, where students are increasingly vying for limited spots at renowned universities.

Students

676 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 51:49 · Freshman retention 48.4%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (628)

White
319 · 50.8%
Black
162 · 25.8%
Hispanic
78 · 12.4%
International
24 · 3.8%
Two or more races
17 · 2.7%
Asian
8 · 1.3%

Data insights

Student Demographics at St. Andrews University in 2023

The student demographic data from St. Andrews University for the year 2023 reveals notable insights into the composition of the student body. The university hosts a diverse range of students, categorized into new undergraduates, continuing undergraduates, transfer students, and graduates.

Among new undergraduates, there are 180 students, with a male representation of approximately 56.1% and female representation of about 43.9%. This indicates a relatively balanced gender distribution, with a slight predominance of male students. In contrast, the continuing undergraduates show a more pronounced female majority, with 510 students—40.6% male and 59.4% female. This trend of higher female representation among older cohorts may reflect broader societal trends in higher education, where women increasingly pursue and complete undergraduate degrees.

The transfer student population consists of 90 individuals, with a significant female majority at 63.3% compared to 36.7% male. This aligns with the observed trends in other categories, suggesting that women are more likely to transfer into programs at St. Andrews. Finally, the graduate student body, though small with only 29 students, also exhibits a female majority at 58.6%.

Overall, the data underscores the ongoing gender dynamics within higher education, with female students increasingly outnumbering males, particularly in upperclassmen and transfer categories. This aligns with national trends, where female enrollment in universities has outpaced male enrollment in many regions. The ethnic breakdown of students, while not fully available, is essential to understanding the university's diversity further and should be a focus for future data collection and analysis.

Age Demographics at St. Andrews University

The age composition of students at St. Andrews University in 2023 reveals a predominantly young demographic, with a significant number of students aged 18-21. Among the undergraduates, the category of 18-19 years includes 184 male and 142 female students, while those aged 20-21 comprise 152 male and 136 female students. This indicates that a large percentage, approximately 52% of male students and 48% of female students, are in their late teens to early twenties.

As students progress into their twenties and beyond, the numbers begin to taper off. For instance, in the 22-24 age group, there are 35 male and 50 female undergraduates, while graduate students in the same age bracket include 6 males and 4 females. This pattern continues across older age categories, with a noted increase in graduate students, particularly among females in the 25-29 age group, where there are 30 female students compared to 7 male students.

Interestingly, the representation of students aged 30 and older is minimal, highlighting the university's focus on younger learners. It is also important to note the presence of non-traditional students, particularly in the graduate categories, where the age spreads indicate a willingness among older individuals to pursue further education.

Overall, St. Andrews University showcases a vibrant and youthful student body, with a strong emphasis on undergraduate education, while also catering to the needs of mature students pursuing graduate degrees. This demographic trend aligns with broader educational shifts, where universities seek to attract a diverse range of students, including those who may be returning to education later in life.

International Students

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

Undergraduates3.8%

24 in 2025 · 13.0% in 2016

0% 7.5% 15% 2016: 13.0%2017: 13.4%2018: 13.2%2019: 11.6%2020: 11.6%2021: 7.8%2022: 6.6%2023: 5.4%2024: 3.6%2025: 3.8%
2016Peer median 3.6%2025
Graduate students10.4%

5 in 2025 · 9.1% in 2016

0% 12.5% 25% 2016: 9.1%2017: 11.8%2018: 7.4%2019: 14.8%2020: 21.4%2021: 8.0%2022: 20.0%2023: 3.4%2024: 15.4%2025: 10.4%
2016Peer median 1.0%2025

Data insights

Analysis of International Student Trends at St. Andrews University

The data on international students at St. Andrews University reveals significant fluctuations over nearly two decades. Starting in 2004, the proportion of international undergraduate students was relatively low, at just under 6%. However, a gradual increase can be observed until 2014, when the percentage peaked at 9.58%. This surge suggests a growing appeal of St. Andrews to international students, possibly influenced by its prestigious reputation and historical significance.

From 2015 onwards, the percentage of international undergraduates stabilized around the 11-13% mark, indicating that the university was successful in attracting a consistent number of international students amidst fluctuating total student numbers. Interestingly, the number of international graduate students exhibits a different trend. Although the total number remains lower in comparison, the graduate international student percentage saw a notable rise, particularly in 2020, reaching 21.43%. This shift could reflect broader trends in higher education where postgraduate programs are increasingly attracting global talent, especially in research-oriented fields.

However, recent years show a decline in both undergraduate and graduate international student numbers, which may warrant further investigation. Factors such as visa regulations, global travel restrictions, and competition from other institutions could have impacted these trends. As universities adapt to the post-pandemic landscape, understanding these dynamics will be crucial for St. Andrews and similar institutions aiming to maintain their international student demographics and the diverse perspectives they bring to campus life.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$44,568

Undergraduate tuition
$32,388
Room and board
$12,180
Graduate tuition
$16,000
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 33% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 19%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$21.8M

Tuition and fees
$13.3M61.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$5.1M23.3%
Gifts and private grants
$1.4M6.3%
Investment return
$178K0.8%
Other
$1.9M8.5%

Expenses$21.3M

Student services
$8.0M37.6%
Instruction
$4.7M22.3%
Auxiliary enterprises
$3.9M18.1%
Institutional support
$3.3M15.3%
Academic support
$1.4M6.7%

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
$44,660peers $65,931
Professor
$63,750peers $77,501
Associate professor
$46,330peers $68,234
Assistant professor
$44,850peers $61,725
Instructor
$35,438peers $53,914

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NAIA · Mid-South Conference · Appalachian Athletic Conference

Mid-South Conference: football

Appalachian Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball

No athlete data available for 2025.

2024
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Football100-
Baseball65-
Soccer4619
Basketball4013
Volleyball3022
Lacrosse2017
Wrestling269
Softball-28
Beach Volleyball-22
Golf14-
Other Sports--
Equestrian--
2023
NAIA Division IIMENWOMEN
Football71-
Soccer3821
Baseball57-
Basketball3810
Lacrosse2615
Volleyball2015
Wrestling236
Softball-22
Beach Volleyball-22
Golf154
Swimming33
Track and Field (Outdoor)22
Other Sports--
Equestrian--

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable schools surrounding St. Andrews University:

  1. Duke University - Ranked 7th in the 2024 US News rankings, Duke is a prestigious private research university located in Durham, North Carolina. It is known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.

  2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - This public research university ranks 22nd in the 2024 US News rankings. It is renowned for its commitment to public service and its diverse academic offerings.

  3. North Carolina State University at Raleigh - With a ranking of 60, NC State is a leader in engineering and technology and is known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation.

  4. Davidson College - This highly regarded liberal arts college is ranked 16th. Davidson is recognized for its rigorous academics and focus on character development.

  5. Wake Forest University - A private university ranked 47th, Wake Forest is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and emphasis on personal education.

These institutions provide a range of academic opportunities and are influential 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, 2020–2022

Burglary
23
Rape
4
Arson
4
Robbery
3
Drug arrests
3
Fondling
2

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

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at St. Andrews University

The crime data from St. Andrews University over the years presents a fluctuating trend in criminal activities on campus. Notably, the year 2016 recorded the highest crime rate with approximately 24.81 incidents per 1,000 students, predominantly driven by arrests related to drug offenses and alcohol-related incidents. This spike may reflect broader societal issues, as similar increases in crime rates have been observed in other educational institutions during that period, often linked to rising substance abuse and mental health challenges among students.

In contrast, the year 2014 saw a significant drop in crime rates to just 3.15 incidents per 1,000 students, indicating that effective interventions or changes in campus culture may have been implemented around that time. It is crucial to recognize that crime rates can be influenced by various factors, including university policies, community engagement, and law enforcement presence.

The years following 2016 showed a general decline in crime rates, with 2022 marking a notable uptick once again to 17.56 incidents per 1,000 students. This resurgence may call for renewed focus on campus safety and student support services. Overall, the data suggests that while crime at St. Andrews University has fluctuated, ongoing efforts to address underlying issues are essential for maintaining a safe educational environment. For more details on how crime rates are calculated, you can refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.

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.