First Year Student

As a first year applicant, MCLA evaluates you for admission based on high school academic performance and strength of curriculum, standardized test scores, and a personal essay in accordance with guidelines established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE). Additionally, we encourage you to visit MCLA for a tour and to schedule a meeting with an admission counselor.

Application Requirements for First Year Students:

  • First year applicantCommon Application
  • Official high school transcript, including first quarter senior grades and any transcripts for college level courses taken (such as dual enrollment or early college courses). MCLA must receive verification of your high school diploma before you enroll.
  • Personal Statement/Essay (250 - 650 words)


Due to the ongoing public health crisis, MCLA is waiving the SAT/ACT testing requirement for applicants for fall 2021 and fall 2022, and we will be piloting a test-blind (test-free) policy for fall 2021 applicants. We do not want students to worry about sitting for the tests when it is unsafe for them to do so. In addition, national and institutional data point to high school work being indicative of student success in college and a more equitable means of assessment. Additionally, as an institution we have a staunch commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion and the use of SAT/ACT scores in admission decisions is posing a significant barrier in carrying out that tenet of our mission.

application review process

The MCLA Office of Admission will continue to require only high school transcripts, letters of recommendation, and personal statements to review first year applicants. As always, students can submit additional materials, such as portfolios and supplemental essays. We will rarely ask for additional documents. Our goal is to learn more about our applicants, outside of test scores, in an effort to enroll students who are prepared for and eager to engage in education and experiences that will elevate them as a whole individual, a leader, and a communicator, fully empowered to make their impression on the world. The MCLA Admission Committee will thoroughly review first year applicants using, but not limited to, the following criteria:

  • Academic rigor
  • Progression of performance (upward trend of grades)
  • Writing capabilities and demonstration of growth, development, and leadership
  • Extracurricular activities, work experience, and community involvement & service
  • Recognition of special achievements

This policy will go into effect for all applicants, including U.S. citizens and international students, first-year applicants and transfers, and students attending public and private schools, and homeschooled applicants. 

International applicants will still be required to submit proof of English language proficiency. MCLA accepts DuoLingo, TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, and LanguageCert test scores. We suggest the DuoLingo test as it can be completed online in 60 minutes on any day.

Application Deadlines:

  • December 1: Early Action (optional and non-binding). Applicants will be notified of an admission decision on or before Friday, December 14.
  • March 1: Regular Decision (after March 1, decisions will be made on a rolling basis, space permitting)