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Public, 4-year

College of Micronesia-FSM

Pohnpei, Micronesia · www.comfsm.fm

中文

Acceptance rate

87.1%

2025

Peer median 79.0%

Out-of-state tuition

$5,050

$9,313 with room and board

Peer median $8,816

Undergraduates

1,729

Student-faculty ratio 13:1

Peer median 18 : 1

“Peers” are all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

The College of Micronesia-FSM (COM-FSM) is a prominent institution of higher education located in the Federated States of Micronesia. Established in 2004, COM-FSM serves as a vital educational hub for the region, offering a diverse array of programs aimed at fostering academic excellence and professional development. One of the college's defining features is its commitment to providing access to quality education while respecting and incorporating the unique cultural heritage of Micronesia. The college’s mission emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning, community engagement, and the promotion of personal and professional growth among its students.

COM-FSM offers various programs ranging from liberal arts to vocational training, ensuring that students are well-prepared for both local and global job markets. The college prides itself on a dedicated faculty who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom, offering students personalized attention and mentorship. The campus environment promotes a sense of community, with numerous extracurricular activities that encourage student involvement and leadership development. Additionally, the college is actively engaged with local and regional communities, providing services and programs that foster economic and social development. Overall, COM-FSM stands out not only as a center for academic learning but also as a nurturing environment that supports the aspirations of its students and contributes to the development of Micronesia as a whole.

Evaluation of Key Educational Metrics at College of Micronesia-FSM

The College of Micronesia-FSM showcases several important metrics that highlight both challenges and trends in the educational landscape. One significant observation is the fluctuation in tuition fees over the years. Starting from 2014, the in-state tuition rose from $5,080 to $5,050 in 2023 after peaking at $5,485 in 2016. This stabilization in tuition costs may be a response to economic pressures and the need to maintain student enrollment amidst rising living expenses.

Student enrollment figures also reveal a worrying trend. From a peak of 2,744 undergraduate students in 2013, the numbers have steadily declined, reaching 1,996 in 2023. While the recent slight increase from 1,946 in 2022 to 1,996 in 2023 indicates a potential rebound, the overall decrease raises concerns about the institution's attractiveness and accessibility to students, particularly in light of the high costs associated with higher education.

Moreover, the graduation rates present a stark picture of the institution's performance. The on-time graduation rate has dipped significantly, plummeting to just 3.4% in 2019 before recovering to 9.7% in 2020. However, the long-term graduation rate is still low, indicating the need for improved support systems for students to ensure they complete their studies in a timely manner.

Lastly, the retention rate has shown fluctuation, with a notable decline to 40% in 2022 before stabilizing at 50% in 2023. This metric is critical as it reflects students' satisfaction and the support they receive while enrolled. A low retention rate could indicate issues with student engagement or academic support services.

In conclusion, while there are slight improvements in recent years, the College of Micronesia-FSM faces significant challenges in tuition affordability, enrollment, graduation, and retention rates that require strategic interventions to enhance its educational offerings and student experience.

This college

Nearest major city
Honolulu, about 3100 mi
Nearest international airport
Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), about 3090 mi
Pohnpei, Micronesia
Also known as
COM-FSM, COMFSM, COM-FSM National, Sharks, COM-FSM Palikir
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
Dr. Theresa Koroivulaono (President & CEO)
Phone
6913202480100
City
Pohnpei
Address
Kolonia, Pohnpei, FM 96941

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 79.0% · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
85.5%
Women
88.2%

In 2020: men 76.1%, women 83.7%.

Data insights

Analysis of Admission Trends at College of Micronesia-FSM

The admission data from the College of Micronesia-FSM reveals intriguing trends over the years. The male admission rate shows a significant fluctuation, starting at 90% in 2015 and gradually decreasing to around 75% by 2023, indicating a more competitive environment for male applicants. Conversely, the female admission rate has remained relatively high, peaking at approximately 98% in 2015 and stabilizing in the low 80s in recent years. This disparity may reflect broader societal trends, where female students increasingly outnumber male students in higher education.
The number of enrollees also varied significantly. From 391 in 2015, enrollment peaked at 760 in 2017, before declining to 507 in 2023. This fluctuation might be influenced by external factors such as economic conditions or changes in regional demographics. The total number of students denied admission has consistently been significant, peaking at 437 in 2016. The number of students deferring admission shows an upward trend, reaching as high as 548 in 2023, which could suggest that students are opting to take a gap year or are facing uncertainties that postpone their education.
Overall, these trends indicate that the College of Micronesia-FSM is experiencing shifts in gender dynamics in admissions, fluctuating enrollment numbers, and an increasing tendency for students to defer their admission. As higher education institutions adapt to changing societal needs and economic conditions, understanding these patterns will be crucial for future planning and policy-making.

Test Scores

SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.

Data insights

Analysis of College of Micronesia-FSM Admission Data

The data from the College of Micronesia-FSM for the years 2007 to 2023 reveals a concerning trend regarding the lack of reported standardized test scores, specifically the SAT and ACT. Throughout these years, there are no recorded values for both the submission rates of these test scores and the actual scores themselves, indicating a potential gap in the admissions process or a shift in the evaluation criteria.

In recent years, many colleges and universities across the globe have started to adopt test-optional policies, allowing students to apply without standardized test scores. This trend has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted testing schedules and raised questions about the fairness of standardized tests in predicting student success. However, the absence of score data for the College of Micronesia-FSM could suggest a lack of transparency or inadequate data collection practices within the institution, which may affect its appeal to prospective students.

Moreover, standardized test scores have historically been a significant factor in college admissions, as they provide a common measure to compare students from diverse educational backgrounds. The lack of these metrics could hinder the university's ability to assess and improve its academic standards and attract high-achieving students.

To enhance its admissions process and appeal, the College of Micronesia-FSM might consider not only adopting test-optional policies but also improving its data reporting practices. This could bolster its reputation and ensure that it remains competitive in the increasingly complex landscape of higher education.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

1,322 applicants in 2025, 87.1% admitted

1,151 admitted 171 not admitted Yield 49.4%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate2650 international (0.0%)
Bachelor's270 international (0.0%)
Top 2 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Elementary Education and Teaching
22
Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other
5

U.S. studentsInternational

Data insights

Analysis of Graduation Data from College of Micronesia-FSM

The graduation data from the College of Micronesia-FSM in 2023 presents a clear picture of the institution's output across various fields. Notably, the most significant number of graduates was in the general education category, with 43 graduates holding an associate degree. This indicates a strong emphasis on foundational education, which is crucial for developing a well-rounded workforce.

Meanwhile, fields such as agriculture, marine sciences, and health-related programs showed minimal or no graduates at the bachelor or master levels. This could suggest a need for increased focus and resources in these areas to align educational offerings with job market demands, particularly in a region where agriculture and marine resources are vital for economic sustainability.

The absence of international students graduating in any category also raises questions about the college's appeal to a global audience. This could be an area for growth, as attracting international students can diversify the student body and enhance the learning environment. Developing partnerships with foreign institutions or improving marketing strategies could help in this aspect.

Furthermore, the data indicates a potential gap in vocational training, as several technical fields reported no graduates. Given the importance of skilled trades in economic development, enhancing programs in these areas might be essential for the college to meet local workforce needs effectively.

In conclusion, while the college demonstrates strong performance in general education, it should consider diversifying its programs and actively recruiting international students to enhance its educational impact and relevance in the region.

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

Liberal arts has 78 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.-
Educationhas 53 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Education, General.-
Elementary Education and Teaching.-
Businesshas 53 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Business/Commerce, General.-
Business Administration, Management and Operations, Other.-
Tourism and Travel Services Management.-
Engineering technologieshas 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician.-
Telecommunications Technology/Technician.-
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 29 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Cultural Studies/Critical Theory and Analysis.-
Marine Sciences.-
Health professionshas 20 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Public Health, General.-
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.-
Agricultural has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Agricultural/Animal/Plant/Veterinary Science and Related Fields, Other.-
Computer and information sciencehas 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Computer and Information Sciences, General.-
Construction trades has 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnder
Building Construction Technology/Technician.-

Students

1,729 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 37:63 · Freshman retention 40.0%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (1,729)

Unknown
18 · 1.0%
Asian
3 · 0.2%

Age distribution

Bachelor's

Under 18
4.9%
18–19
43.8%
20–21
23.4%
22–24
14.0%
25 and over
13.9%

Data insights

Student Demographics at College of Micronesia-FSM in 2023

The student population at the College of Micronesia-FSM in 2023 reveals significant insights into gender distribution among different categories of students. With a total of 507 new undergraduate students, the male representation stands at 42.2%, while females make up a considerable 57.8%. This trend is also observed in the continuing undergraduate students, where the male percentage is slightly lower at 40.2%, and females dominate at 59.8%.

The noticeable predominance of female students may reflect broader societal trends in higher education, where women increasingly outnumber men in various academic fields. This pattern is consistent across many institutions globally, suggesting shifts in educational engagement and aspirations among different genders.

Moreover, the data indicates a minimal presence of students from diverse racial backgrounds, with no recorded numbers for white, Asian, Latinx, African American, or international students. This lack of diversity raises questions about the inclusiveness of the institution and the potential barriers that may limit access for underrepresented groups. As educational institutions strive for equity and representation, it becomes imperative to explore strategies to enhance diversity among the student body.

Overall, while the College of Micronesia-FSM demonstrates a strong female presence, the lack of demographic variety calls for a concerted effort to attract a more diverse student population, ensuring a richer educational experience for all.

Analysis of Student Age Demographics at College of Micronesia-FSM

The age distribution among students at the College of Micronesia-FSM reveals interesting trends that reflect both the institution's demographic structure and broader societal factors influencing education. The data indicates a significant concentration of students in the younger age brackets, particularly those aged 18-19, which accounts for 41.6% of male students and 62.4% of female students. This suggests that the college is predominantly attracting recent high school graduates, which is common in many educational institutions globally.

Interestingly, the enrollment numbers start to decline steadily as the age increases, particularly after the age of 24. The 22-24 age group comprises only 13.2% of male and 11.4% of female students, highlighting a potential gap in engagement for those in their early to mid-twenties. This could point to various factors, such as the workforce demands or the pursuit of vocational training that may divert this age group from traditional undergraduate programs.

Moreover, the absence of graduate male students across all age categories suggests a critical area for growth. Institutions often benefit from a diverse age mix, as older students can enrich the learning environment with their life experiences. The lack of graduate programs targeted at older demographics could be a missed opportunity for the college.

In conclusion, while the College of Micronesia-FSM effectively engages younger students, it may need to strategize on attracting and retaining older students, including graduate programs, to foster a more inclusive and diverse educational landscape.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Undergraduates0.0%

0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.0%2017: 0.0%2018: 0.0%2019: 0.0%2020: 0.0%2021: 0.0%2022: 0.0%2023: 0.0%2024: 0.0%2025: 0.0%
2016Peer median 0.6%2025

Data insights

Comments on International Student Data at College of Micronesia-FSM

The absence of international student data for the College of Micronesia-FSM raises important questions about the institution's engagement with global education and diversity. In recent years, many universities have recognized the value of attracting international students, as they contribute to a vibrant campus culture and enhance academic collaboration. International students often bring diverse perspectives and experiences that enrich discussions and foster a more inclusive learning environment.

Moreover, the presence of international students can significantly impact the local economy. They often contribute to housing, food, and other essential services, which can be particularly beneficial for smaller communities in the Pacific region. As countries continue to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, it becomes increasingly vital for educational institutions to prioritize and promote their international programs to attract students from around the world.

The lack of data may also indicate potential challenges the College of Micronesia-FSM faces in recruiting and supporting international students. It is essential for the institution to develop strategies to enhance its visibility and appeal, such as establishing partnerships with foreign universities, improving scholarship offerings, and creating support systems for international students. By addressing these challenges, the college can better position itself in the competitive landscape of global higher education and foster a more diverse and inclusive academic community.

Cost

2025 cost per year

$9,313

Undergraduate tuition
$5,050
Room and board
$4,263
Tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $19,938 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Tuition rose -8% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose -6%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$24.4M

Government grants and contracts
$21.2M86.6%
Auxiliary enterprises
$1.3M5.3%
Tuition and fees
$1.2M4.8%
Other
$790K3.2%

Expenses$22.5M

Institutional support
$10.3M45.9%
Instruction
$7.0M31.3%
Scholarships
$2.3M10.2%
Student services
$1.2M5.5%
Auxiliary enterprises
$1.0M4.5%
Academic support
$581K2.6%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

All faculty
$28,754peers $68,588
Professor
$35,080peers $79,972
Associate professor
$25,233peers $69,677
Assistant professor
$23,496peers $62,785
Instructor
$20,663peers $61,593

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · EADA

No athlete data available for 2025.

No athlete data available for 2024.

No athlete data available for 2023.

Nearby & Safety

Data insights

Here are some notable universities surrounding the College of Micronesia-FSM:

  1. University of Hawaii at Manoa - Ranked 170 in the 2024 US News, this comprehensive university offers a diverse range of programs and is known for its strong research initiatives.

  2. Oregon State University - With a ranking of 142, this comprehensive university is renowned for its emphasis on sustainability and innovation in various fields of study.

  3. University of Oregon - Ranked 98, this comprehensive university is known for its vibrant campus life and strong programs in arts and sciences.

  4. San Francisco State University - With a ranking of 178, this comprehensive university offers a wide array of academic programs and is located in the heart of San Francisco.

  5. University of California-Berkeley - A top-tier university ranked 15, UC Berkeley is recognized globally for its rigorous academic programs and research contributions.

  6. Stanford University - Ranked 3, Stanford is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, known for its cutting-edge research and excellence in education.

These institutions provide a range of academic opportunities and are valuable resources for collaboration and educational advancement in the region.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 0.4 · all 908 public associate's colleges in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Liquor arrests
17
Liquor referrals
8
Aggravated assault
6
Weapons arrests
2
Burglary
1

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

Data insights

Trends in Crime Rates at College of Micronesia-FSM

The data from the College of Micronesia-FSM reveals a notable decline in the average crime rate per 1,000 students over the past decade. Starting at a high of 29.01 in 2015, the average crime rate has progressively decreased to just 2.00 in 2023. This significant drop reflects a positive trend towards improved safety and security on campus.

The most alarming year appears to be 2015, where there were multiple incidents of various crimes, including arrests related to firearms, drugs, and alcohol. However, as we move forward in the years, particularly from 2020 onward, we see a sharp decline in reported incidents. In 2021, the crime rate reached its lowest point at 4.84, indicating a successful effort by campus authorities to enhance campus safety measures.

Interestingly, the data shows a consistent reduction in violent crimes such as domestic violence, dating violence, and assaults. This downward trajectory may be attributed to increased awareness, preventive programs, and community engagement strategies implemented by the college.

Moreover, the absence of reported incidents related to significant crimes like murder and sexual assault in recent years further underscores the effectiveness of these safety initiatives. While challenges may still exist, the overall trend is encouraging and suggests that the College of Micronesia-FSM is committed to fostering a safer educational environment for its students.

For more details on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this 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.