
Franklin and Marshall College
Located in Lancaster, a safe, walkable city known for its culinary and arts scenes.
Acceptance rate
28.2%
SAT (mid 50%)
1310–1463
Avg net price
$36,425
after aid
Testing
optional
2027 cycle
Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and Franklin and Marshall College’s admissions site.
Your chances
How hard is it to get in?
Getting in is the hard part. Franklin and Marshall College admitted 28.2% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.
Admitted students cluster near the top of the testing range: the middle 50% score 1310–1463 on the SAT and 30–33 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention, but they do not decide it.
The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what Franklin and Marshall College actually rewards, and tells you what to do next.
What they value
Purposeful Learning, Impactful Leadership
At F&M, I wasn’t just learning what to think, I was learning how to think.
The liberal arts curriculum emphasizes developing key skills through seminar-style Connections courses and broad exploration across disciplines through Exploration requirements.
- Liberal Arts at F&Mcritical thinking, effective communication, problem-solving
- Fields of Studydiverse academic disciplines
- AI @ F&Mintegration of artificial intelligence
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Cost and aid
What you will actually pay
The sticker price is about $85,776, but that is not what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $36,425.
We’re dedicated to making an F&M education affordable for all, offering need-based and merit-based financial aid to welcome talented students from all backgrounds.
Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $76,124.
Verified from https://www.fandm.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.
Campus life
The feel of the place
“Engage in voter opinion research with the F&M Poll, explore Lancaster's art galleries, then collaborate with faculty on Chesapeake watershed restoration, a Tuesday here.”
The campus is nestled in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, a vibrant city certified as a “Welcoming City” with many art galleries, historical buildings, and diverse restaurants, all within walking distance.
Quick answers
Franklin and Marshall College FAQ
- Is Franklin and Marshall College test-optional?
- For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at Franklin and Marshall College is optional.
- How hard is it to get into Franklin and Marshall College?
- Very hard. Franklin and Marshall College admits 28.2% of applicants, and the middle 50% of admitted students score 1310 to 1463 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
- How much does Franklin and Marshall College cost?
- The list price is about $85,776, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $36,425.
- Is Franklin and Marshall College worth it?
- Graduates earn a median of $76,124 ten years after enrolling, and 85% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly what Spike helps you weigh.
Launching soon
Ask Spike anything about Franklin and Marshall College.
Spike answers from Franklin and Marshall College’s own site, then helps you figure out your move. Join the waitlist to get in early.
One email when Spike opens. No card, no account. About the waitlist.