
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 the Franklin and Marshall College admissions site.
Your chances
How hard is it to get in?
Franklin and Marshall College admitted 28.2% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That’s selective. Fewer than half of the students who apply get in.
Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. 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. They don’t decide it.
The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what Franklin and Marshall College actually rewards, then 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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Applying
Here’s what to send, and when.
- TestingOptional (2027 cycle)
Verified from https://www.fandm.edu.
Cost and aid
What will you actually pay?
The sticker price is about $85,776. That isn’t 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.
Academics
These are the most popular majors.
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other14% of degrees
- Business Administration, Management and Operations10% of degrees
- Behavioral Sciences8% of degrees
- Mathematics7% of degrees
- Political Science and Government6% of degrees
- Economics6% of degrees
Campus life
Here’s 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
What do people ask about Franklin and Marshall College?
- 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. 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. After aid, families pay $36,425 on average.
- Is Franklin and Marshall College worth it?
- Graduates earn a median of $76,124 ten years after enrolling. 85% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.
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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.