Claremont McKenna College

Claremont McKenna College scores 92 (Exceptional Value) on the CampusROI scale. At 1,388 enrolled, it is one of the smallest highly selective liberal arts colleges in the country, and the outcomes data match its reputation. Median 6-year earnings of $68,200 are among the highest for any liberal arts college; the payback period is 3.7 years; and the completion rate is 91.4%. Median debt of $13,500 is low. Net price of $28,849 reflects a strong aid model: families earning $30,001-$48,000 pay only $7,360 per year -- among the most favorable aid structures for lower-middle-income families at any selective private. The Scorecard reports only three programs with earnings data: Economics (124 graduates, $89,505 year-one, $146,524 year-four), International Relations and National Security (28 graduates, $96,520 at year four), and International Relations (34 graduates, $73,826 year-four). Economics at $146,524 year-four is the clearest signal of what a CMC education produces. The repayment rate data is imputed (not directly reported in the Scorecard), which accounts for the 0.8 data completeness score -- a minor caveat on an otherwise strong profile. CMC's focus on economics, government, and public affairs defines its academic identity, and the outcomes data confirm that identity delivers in the labor market.

CMC admits 9.6% of applicants with SAT ranges of 750-790 Math and 720-770 Reading; ACT 33-35 composite. At 1,388 students, the campus is intimate by design. The Pell grant rate of 18.1% is lower than some selective peers, though CMC's aid model is generous below $75,000 in family income. Students interested in finance, consulting, policy, economics, and law cluster here. The Block Plan (a shared curriculum model across the Claremont Colleges) gives CMC students access to a broader course catalog. Highly quantitative students leaning toward economics or financial careers are the core demographic.