What Does It Take to Get Into Montclair State University?

Francesca Schiavone knew Montclair State University was the right fit the moment she stepped on campus.

“I could tell that student involvement is a big part of the experience here, and I love how many opportunities there are to connect and grow,” says the Clifton High School senior.

She’s one of hundreds of future Red Hawks in Montclair’s incoming Class of 2029 – students who didn’t just meet the criteria for admission but stood out for their academic achievement, leadership and drive to make a difference.

Who Gets Into Montclair?

The incoming class includes students who:

• Maintained a GPA of 3.3 or higher
• Enrolled in honors, AP, dual enrollment or advanced coursework
• Took on leadership roles in clubs, sports or their communities
• Balanced part-time work and service with academic excellence

“While the admit rate has fluctuated, the quality of the student and our admission criteria have not wavered,” says Director of Undergraduate Admissions Jordanna Maziarz. “We’ve done a really good job of recruiting students who meet our criteria and who want to be at the University.”

A First Look at the Red Hawk Experience

Throughout April, Montclair hosted a series of Accepted Student Days, welcoming admitted students and their families to explore campus, engage with academic programs, and gain a preview of the college experience

Many students walked away with a clear sense of how Montclair will support their goals – academically, personally and professionally.

“When I visited, I was shown the view of the skylines of Newark, New York, and my city, Jersey City,” says Derek Jeffrey Almazan, a senior at County Prep High School. “The view symbolizes how I’m moving up in the world – literally and figuratively.”

Career-Focused Programs and Support

Nicolina Castellano, a senior at James Caldwell High School in West Caldwell, saw a clear path to her goals through Montclair’s academic offerings.

“Montclair had so much to offer me that I knew it was the right choice,” she says. “For various majors, including my major Nutrition and Food Studies, Montclair offers a program to obtain both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just five years. This works perfectly for my career goals and I know it will set me up for success.”

Special presentations during Accepted Student Days highlighted standout programs and resources, including:

• Honors Program – One of Montclair’s most prestigious academic communities
• Pre-Law Program – A pathway to law school success
• Pre-Medical Program – Includes coaching for medical school applications 
• 5-Year Bachelor’s/Master’s Programs – Earn an advanced degree faster
• Study Abroad – Offerings in more than 50 countries 
• University College – Support for students still exploring their major

Why Early Birds Commit

Many members of the incoming class applied through the Early Bird Junior Admission Program, which gives qualified juniors the opportunity to apply before senior year. (Applications are open until June 15). 

“I chose to be a part of the Early Bird program because it allowed me to go into my senior year with less pressure regarding college applications and acceptances,” says Silvia Andrade, a senior at Hasbrouck Heights High School.

“Montclair’s academic programs and opportunities were unique compared to other schools I was considering,” she adds. “I will be majoring in Journalism and Digital Media, and Montclair’s Journalism program caught my eye because it offers the ability to gain a wide perspective on the different aspects of journalism. I also felt that Montclair would offer me the best internship opportunities, and from the academic sessions I attended during my visits, I felt the staff would really support me.”

Despite Growth, Standards Stay High

Even as Montclair’s applicant pool has expanded through the Common Application, the University has remained true to its standards.

“Our criteria are the same or more rigorous now than they were 10 years ago,” Maziarz says. “We look for students who are a strong fit – and ensure they have the tools to succeed once admitted.”

Discover the Red Hawk Advantage

Every accepted student receives the Red Hawk Family Newsletter, filled with helpful information to support students and families during their college decision process.

Inside, readers can explore:

• 5 Reasons to Fall in Love with Montclair – From affordability and academic strength to campus culture
• How Montclair Helps Students Save Money – Scholarships, grants and on-time graduation strategies

Ready to Make It Official?

Don’t wait – secure your place in the Red Hawk community today!

If you’ve been accepted to Montclair, the next step is to submit your New Student Deposit and confirm your spot in the incoming class.

Submit your deposit now and make it official.