Collegeville, MNprivate nonprofitcsbsju.edu
Saint John's University in Collegeville, MN, blends rigorous academics with a tight-knit Benedictine community, offering a distinctive liberal arts education rooted in tradition. Known for its high graduation rates and strong outcomes in business and STEM fields, it attracts students seeking a balanced, supportive environment with a focus on holistic development.
Saint John's University maintains a moderately selective admissions process, with an Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. of 55.2% (469 admissions from 849 applications in 2024). Admitted students typically have SAT scores between 1150–1330 (with averages of 653 in Math and 712 in ERW) or ACT composites around 30. The average GPA of incoming freshmen is 3.72, with 24% of admits holding a 4.0 or higher. The university offers deferred and early admission options, catering to a range of academic timelines.
Saint John's offers over 100 majors, with business (42% of students), biological sciences (14%), and social sciences (11%) as the most popular. The curriculum emphasizes a liberal arts foundation, with programs like Accounting, Actuarial Science, and Artificial Intelligence standing out. Students describe the workload as 'appropriate academic rigor but not impossibly hard,' with assignments that are 'helpful and relevant.' The Princeton Review notes that the environment is supportive rather than cutthroat, making it ideal for students who thrive in collaborative settings.
Life at Saint John's revolves around its scenic Collegeville campus, where 91% of students live on campus. The Benedictine tradition fosters a close-knit community, with opportunities for spiritual growth and service. Reddit threads highlight a 'relaxed/hippie-ish' vibe, contrasting with more conservative peer institutions. Campus amenities include modern housing, dining halls, and facilities like Carnesecca Arena for sports and events. Over 100 clubs and organizations cater to diverse interests, from athletics to arts, while study abroad programs expand global perspectives.
Saint John's boasts strong post-graduation outcomes, with a 76% four-year graduation rate and 91% of graduates employed or pursuing further education within six months. The Peter J. Tobin College of Business reports a 90.9% placement rate for its 2024 class. Median earnings six years after graduation are $54,189, with many alumni securing roles in Minnesota's thriving business and healthcare sectors. The university's emphasis on internships and experiential learning contributes to these robust results.
Tuition and fees at Saint John's are offset by generous financial aid, with 73.38% of students receiving assistance and an average aid package of $38,397. The Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator estimates costs around $29,656 after scholarships and grants, though individual packages vary based on need and merit. The university emphasizes affordability, with median student debt at graduation reported at $25,000—below the national average for private institutions.
Saint John's distinguishes itself through its Benedictine heritage, which infuses campus life with a sense of purpose and community. The university's 91% graduation rate for its joint program with the College of Saint Benedict far exceeds Minnesota's private college average (68%). Its location—nestled amid lakes and forests—offers a serene yet intellectually vibrant setting, while strong ties to local industries ensure graduates are well-prepared for careers or advanced study. For students seeking a balanced, values-driven education with proven outcomes, Saint John's delivers.