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Saint Peter's University

Accept Rate
90.53%
Grad Rate
61.7%
Enrollment
1,939
Avg SAT
1060
Tuition
$41,054
Median Salary
$57,815
Overall Grade
C
C+
Academics
C
Value
C
Admissions
A-
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Saint Peter's University feels like an intimate, tight-knit urban oasis where Jesuit values of service and reflection are woven into daily campus life. The campus is a small, green enclave within the bustling energy of Jersey City, fostering a community where students are known by name and supported by accessible faculty. It's a place that balances serious academic purpose with a welcoming, inclusive spirit.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

90.53%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

SAT data not available

Average: 1060

ACT Score Range

ACT data not available

Average: 23

Admissions Tips

1. Highlight your commitment to service and community engagement in your application essays, as this aligns directly with the Jesuit mission of 'women and men for others.' 2. Apply Early Action to demonstrate strong interest; with a high acceptance rate, this can secure your spot early and potentially improve your financial aid package.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1060
40080012001600

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

Saint Peter's is recognized for strong programs in business, education, and the sciences, with a curriculum grounded in the liberal arts and Jesuit tradition of educating the whole person. Teaching quality is a hallmark, with small class sizes ensuring personalized attention and mentorship from professors rather than teaching assistants. Undergraduate research is actively encouraged through programs like the Jersey City Fellows and partnerships with local industries and hospitals.

By The Numbers

61.7%
Graduation Rate
71.6%
Retention Rate
1,939
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$41,054
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$12,973
After financial aid
Total Cost
$50,052
Cost of attendance/year

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Jersey City

Jersey City offers a vibrant, diverse backdrop for student life, with easy access to Manhattan via the PATH train for world-class dining, entertainment, and internships. On campus, students enjoy Division I athletics, over 50 student clubs, and events at the Yanitelli Center. For fun, students explore local hotspots in Journal Square, relax at Liberty State Park, or hop on the light rail to Hoboken or Newport for shopping and nightlife.

Local Rent Check

$2,025 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Jersey City
Explore Jersey City

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$164,216
$0Est. 4 Years: $164,216

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($57,815):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus itself is well-lit, enclosed, and patrolled by its own campus security, creating a secure environment for students. The surrounding Jersey City area is generally safe, especially in the downtown and Heights neighborhoods where students frequently live and socialize, but standard urban awareness is advised.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Prime location in Jersey City offers a bridge to NYC internships and cultural opportunities without the high cost of living in Manhattan.
  • โœ“ Small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio ensure personalized attention and strong mentorship from professors.
  • โœ“ Strong Jesuit network provides a supportive community and valuable connections for post-graduate employment.
  • โœ“ Division I athletics, particularly a renowned basketball program, fosters a spirited campus community.

Cons

  • โœ— The campus is relatively small and can feel contained, which may not appeal to students seeking a sprawling, traditional college town feel.
  • โœ— While improving, campus social life can be quieter compared to larger universities, requiring students to be more proactive in seeking out activities.
  • โœ— The urban setting means students must be mindful of city living costs and navigate public transportation for many off-campus experiences.

Notable Alumni

Bob Hurley
Hall of Fame basketball coach who won two national championships as the head coach at St. Anthony's High School.
Eddie Glaude Jr.
Prominent author, political commentator, and Princeton University professor known for his work on James Baldwin and American democracy.
James McGreevey
Former Governor of New Jersey and current CEO of the New Jersey Reentry Corporation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Saint Peter's University is known for its strong Jesuit identity focused on academic excellence, social justice, and service. It is particularly recognized for its successful Division I athletics program, especially men's basketball, and for providing a high-quality, personalized education in business, nursing, and the liberal arts within an urban setting.

No, Saint Peter's University has a high acceptance rate of 90.53%, making it an accessible option for a broad range of students. This indicates that the university is not highly selective, but applicants are still encouraged to have a solid academic record. A strong application that highlights alignment with the school's mission can improve chances of admission and merit-based financial aid.

Campus life at Saint Peter's is intimate and community-focused, with a student body of just under 2,000. Students can participate in over 50 clubs and organizations and cheer on Division I Peacocks athletics. The urban location means students can easily access the cultural and social offerings of Jersey City and New York City, blending a close-knit campus feel with endless city opportunities.

For many students, Saint Peter's University offers a strong value proposition. The $41,054 tuition is offset by significant merit aid for most students, reducing the net price. With a 10-year median graduate earnings of $57,815 and the advantage of its Jersey City/NYC location for internships and jobs, the degree can provide a solid return on investment, especially in business and healthcare fields.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

JPMorgan Chase & Co. New York-Presbyterian Hospital Prudential Financial New Jersey City University Jersey City Medical Center
Smart Start Score
62

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Private
  • Setting Urban
  • In-State Tuition $41,054
  • Zip Code 07306

The Money Talk

With an annual tuition of $41,054, Saint Peter's is priced similarly to many private regional universities, but its high acceptance rate suggests generous merit-based aid is available to lower the net cost. The 10-year median earnings of $57,815 for graduates indicate a solid return on investment, particularly for those entering high-demand fields like business, nursing, and education. For students who leverage the strong alumni network and NYC proximity, the degree can be a financially sound launchpad.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $41,054
Housing (12 mo) $24,300
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $72,554
With avg financial aid:
$12,973/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.