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Undergraduate Admissions

Quality higher education should be within reach. At MCLA, it is.

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A Quality Education.
At an Affordable Price.

As Massachusetts’ public liberal arts college, MCLA welcomes motivated students from all backgrounds. Our curriculum emphasizes a broad foundation and the education of the whole person—personally, professionally, and academically. As Massachusetts’ most affordable public liberal arts college, MCLA makes a high-quality education accessible, offering undergraduate degree programs along with select graduate degrees, leadership development, and certificate options to support your goals.

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Why MCLA Is Worth It

13:1 Student Faculty Ratio

MCLA students benefit from small class sizes, where dedicated faculty provide personalized support, meaningful mentorship, and engaging learning experiences.

100% Affordable

As Massachusetts's most affordable liberal arts college, MCLA's Financial Aid office is committed to making the financial aid process easier to navigate and more transparent. We offer generous and robust financial aid programs, including grants, loans, employment and scholarships.

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80+ Programs of Study

MCLA offers a wide selection of majors and minors, paired with personalized advising, student services, and academic resources to help you reach your educational and career goals.

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Long-Term Stability

MCLA is in one of the best financial positions in our history. With state funding, $52 million in reserves, and a successful financial stability review by the New England Commission of Higher Education, you can be confident MCLA will be here to support you through graduation and beyond.

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MCLA Has a Path for You

First Year

Our goal is to learn more about our applicants and help 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.

First Year Info

Transfer

We welcome students who choose to complete their bachelor's degree after attending a community college, as well as those who wish to transfer to MCLA from a four-year institution. MCLA enrolls close to 300 transfers annually. Admission is available for both fall and spring terms

Transfer Info

Re-Admission

Former MCLA students ready to continue their journey are invited to rejoin our community and apply for readmission for the fall or spring term.

Re-Admission Info

Graduate & Certificate App

MCLA offers flexible graduate programs for working professionals, including an accelerated MBA, an M.Ed. for future educators, and a low-residency Leadership Academy/CAGS for aspiring school and district leaders.

Graduate & Certificate App Info

Take a Class

Whether you are interested in a specific course, or looking to ease your way back into a degree program, your journey starts here.

Take a Class Info

Hampshire & Anna Maria College Student info

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If your plans included Hampshire College or Anna Maria College, you don’t have to figure out your next steps alone. MCLA offers a clear, stable path to continue your degree, with guidance on transferring credits, accessing transcripts, and staying on track to graduate. We will:

  • Review your prior coursework individually
  • Make every effort to apply your credits toward degree requirements
  • Provide a full range of academic and support services
  • Aim to match or beat your current tuition
  • Waive residency requirements

Learn more about how we can support your unique needs:

I’m aN Anna Maria Student    

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FAQs for Hampshire & anna Maria Students

Still have questions about transferring after a college or university closure? We’ve answered a few common ones below.

At MCLA, your prior coursework is reviewed individually, with the goal of applying as many credits as possible toward your degree. We make every effort to preserve your academic progress and help you continue without starting over.

Look for a college that offers academic continuity, personalized support, and long-term stability. That includes clear credit evaluation, strong advising, and a structured path to graduation. As a public liberal arts college, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts provides a stable environment, small classes, and dedicated faculty support to help you move forward with confidence.
If your college is closing, it will typically provide instructions for requesting transcripts or designate a custodian for academic records. If you’re coming from Hampshire College or Anna Maria College, our admissions team can help you understand the process and ensure your records are received and evaluated as part of your transfer.
In most cases, yes—you are still responsible for student loans you’ve already borrowed. However, you may have options depending on your situation, including federal discharge programs in certain cases. We recommend reviewing your loan details with your loan servicer or the U.S. Department of Education. Our team can also help point you to the right resources as you plan your next steps.
Start by gathering your academic records, including transcripts and course materials, and reviewing your current degree progress. It’s also important to explore transfer options early so you can continue your education without interruption. At MCLA, we’re here to help you understand your options, evaluate your credits, and plan a clear path forward.

 

Meet Your Admissions Counselor

MCLA admissions counselors are here to help—guiding you through the application process, answering your questions, and supporting you every step of the way.

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A Quality Education.

At an Affordable Price.

Ready to Take the First Step?

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