Founded in 1862, Gustavus Adolphus College. is a Private college. Located in Minnesota, which is a city setting in Minnesota, the campus itself is Town. The campus is home to 2,250 full time undergraduate students, and 0 full time graduate students.
The Gustavus Adolphus College Academic calendar runs on a Four-one-four plan basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 11:1. There are 184 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Gustavus Adolphus College include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
64%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
0
SAT Range
ACT Range
Admissions at are considered Selective, with ,44% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 11 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
96% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 74% were in the top quarter, and 37% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Gustavus Adolphus College.
0%
“We”re apathetic”
10%
“We know about current events and vote”
62%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
28%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
0%
“We save it for the classroom”
7%
“Sometimes, but not often”
59%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
34%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
3%
“I only go out in groups”
27%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
70%
“I feel extremely safe”
24%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
38%
“We bought the gear”
38%
“We live for the big game”
0%
“It”s not really our thing”
3%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
60%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
37%
“We”re a very artistic group”
0%
“Haven”t met them”
0%
“Available in class”
47%
“They keep regular office hours”
53%
“They”re always available”
0%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
53%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
47%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
0%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
0%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
13%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
47%
“We only party on weekends”
40%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
0%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
73%
“There might be people who do”
27%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
0%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
0%
“We”re apathetic”
10%
“We know about current events and vote”
62%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
28%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
0%
“We save it for the classroom”
7%
“Sometimes, but not often”
59%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
34%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
3%
“I only go out in groups”
27%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
70%
“I feel extremely safe”
24%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
38%
“We bought the gear”
38%
“We live for the big game”
0%
“It”s not really our thing”
3%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
60%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
37%
“We”re a very artistic group”
0%
“Haven”t met them”
0%
“Available in class”
47%
“They keep regular office hours”
53%
“They”re always available”
0%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
53%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
47%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
0%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
101 Students rated on-campus housing 3.9 stars. 16 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
72 Students rated off-campus housing 3 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
101 Students rated campus food 4.5 stars. 64 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
101 Students rated campus facilities 4.3 stars. 42 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
101 Students rated class size 4.6 stars. 64 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
101 Students rated school activities 4.2 stars. 44 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
101 Students rated local services 3.7 stars. 27 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
101 Students rated academics 4 stars. 42 % gave the school a 5.0.
Gustavus Adolphus College REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of Gustavus Adolphus College?
34 Students rated Gustavus Adolphus College
Raiya
I think Gustavus Adolphus College is a perfectly reasonable college - located in a smaller community about 30-45 minutes away from the closest major stores, has relatively good financial aid, and the teachers are always responsive. I know there have been issues about funding and political disputes on campus before, but I never found those too disrupting. Their dining hall food is lackluster so I highly recommend finding housing with kitchen access.
Tessa
GAC is ass. You don't matter to the administration. You are a dollar sign that can talk as far as they are concerned. They force you to stay on campus so they can uncharge you for your food and rent. You may pay nearly $1000 a month to have a roommate in your bedroom in your shitty apartment that they do not clean. The school is physically very dirty. It is not that custodial staff is bad. It's that they don't pay our custodial staff enough or hire enough or care enough to keep the place clean, even during a pandemic. If you are dibbled and need a housing accommodation, res life will do whatever illegal shit they can before you get a lawyer to threaten them. They do it to everyone. They don't want to help. They want you to shut up and pay your bills. Also, the rates of sexual assault are way higher than anyone would admit or do anything to fix. When I got here as a first year, we called this one dude "title xi guy" because he had so many title xi violations people lost track. That rapist not only stayed at the school but on the football team. They don't care about survivors, victims, marginalized people. "Make your life count" is bullshit. Their real motto is "Pay up or die."
Lillian
Anyone could find a close group of people to be friends with here. Its a small college, but big enough that you won't know everyone on campus. The professors are easily accessible for the most part, and seem to be invested the their students' learning and growth.
Elizabeth
Gustavus Adolphus College is a very good school for someone who grew up in a small town. As a student I feel valued and cared for, as professors and classmates check-in with you and genuinely care about your life outside of the classroom. Classes are abot 15 people each, and this small size is great for debate and conversation. However, ff I had any complaints, it would be that Gustavus is not very diverse. The campus is predominately white, and the students are actively calling for more diversity. Also, they are trying very hard to be sustainable, even designing the new science building to be environmently friendly, but won't put a compost bin in our dorm. The compostable products provided in the cafeteria don't matter if they can't get to the industrial composter. However, despite the few downsides, it is a very good school. It may look expensive from the sticker price, but they offer very good financial aid to keep them competitive with state and other private schools. I genuinely do love it here, and I am very glad in my choice of school.
Sara
Gustavus seems like a very connection and innovational college. Everyone is friendly, welcoming, and helpful. They are really dedicated to being progressive. and the campus is comfortable too. Although it is a smaller college in a more rural area it still seems to provide a quality education.
Emma
Too expensive, but everyone does get some form of scholarship. Needs to make sustainability a larger priority on campus. Lots of food waste. One of the best-rated college cafeterias but the food is mediocre and overpriced. Some majors are overcrowded and getting into desired courses can be difficult due to small class sizes.
Emily
I think Gustavus Adolphus College is a very good school. I was drawn here for a few reasons (mind you – I am an out-of-state student from Kentucky). First of all, I was looking for a small, liberal arts school with under 3,000 students. They only have maybe 2,200-2,400 as far as I know. In addition, their school takes the liberal arts education very seriously. Even though it is a Lutheran school, I am not a Lutheran, and they do not force their religion on anyone. They have many required general education requirements, which allows you to experience all fields – this definitely helps you make up your mind about what career field/path you want to pursue. There are people here from many different religious traditions, which the campus is overall very aware of and accepting of. It’s pretty diverse for the type of school it is, but could definitely be more diverse. I have already gotten to talk to various people of many walks of life, and this has made me very happy. I like getting to know people of all kinds. Also, I wanted a school with small class sizes, with professors who would actually remember your face and you as a person. I absolutely love it. They really make me feel like I matter here, since I am recognized by many of the staff and professors I have had. Especially my advisor – she is so sweet and caring. She is always there to help no matter what, and is always knowledgeable, or can lead me in the right direction when I need something. The food is really good for a college. They have vegetarian options, vegan options, gluten free options, and allergy warnings on the food. This is so incredibly important, and I really appreciate how hard they work to cater to everyone. Apparently, they have the best college food in Minnesota. One more thing to note is that they recently created a Peace, Justice, and Conflict Studies major, which is exactly what I wanted to do. So that’s why I am here! Highly recommend! (PS – they offer really good scholarships, in case you are in financial need like I am).
Grace
I do really enjoy Gustavus. I think it has an amazing community and academic scene. I love the friends that I have made thus far and the classes have been really good. I've also enjoyed the food and the other services (health care, mail, store, etc) that are on campus. I'm just not a huge fan of the parking situation and campus safety good do a better job, whether it be for ticketing or for the safe ride services.
Marie
I really like it here at Gustavus. No school is perfect, but this school truly does it's best to take care of student needs. It can be a little isolated (since we are on a hill) but if you have a car (or a friend with a car), Mankato is really close and there is a lot to do there. In terms of academics, Gustavus absolutely can't be beat. The professors here really care about their jobs and the education you will get is fantastic. Also, there are tons of resources to help students with whatever they might need, great selection in the caf, and a gorgeous environmentally-conscious campus. I enjoy going to Gustavus immensely.
Erin
I am so thrilled to be a part of the Gustavus community. Since coming to Gustavus, I have been able to be involved with many different organizations around campus and there are so many more opportunities. I am involved in sports, work, committees and volunteering. I am also involved in a Sorority on campus and it has been amazing seeing the campus from the Greek aspect as well. I would recommend this school time and time again as it has a great community and gives you so many opportunities to be involved and to gain leadership positions.
Joyce
The education that Gustavus has to offer is unmatched. As a nursing major, if it weren't for the liberal arts aspect of the college, I wouldn't have been able to take, and find an interest in a variety of other subjects ranging from philosophy to cultural anthropology. Gustavus can be a hard place to be adjust to at first, especially if you're a minority (like me), but the school makes a tremendous effort of bridging any gaps, and administration always has an open ear. Go Gusties!
kylee
Gustavus Adolphus College is a Beautiful campus. Everyone is always welcomed and it really is a safe place to be. There is something for everyone. The professors are very very good with understanding that we are also athletes and they loveeee to keep up with the sports teams and come to the games! Coaches are also very understanding that as a D3 school we are student athletes and the student part comes first. There are so many resource at Gustavus for students to use when needing help with any class. Professors are very helpful and understanding. It is just a great place to be!
Cassandra
Attending Gustavus was one hundred percent the right choice for me. When I visited the first time, I was fell in love with the beautiful campus and community feeling. Everyone at Gustavus is so friendly and caring, including the profs, and they make it very easy to feel at home .
Goldina
Gustavus Adolphus College has been a great experience for me. The people I meet are great to get along with. The professors are also really good along with the classes. There is an event or activtiy to do every day so you can never really get bored on campus.
Jessica
I would give Gustavus three and a half pizzas (get it? college kids eat pizza :) ) out of five because of a few things. The faculty is outstanding in their knowledge and passion for the material they teach. They are also incredibly supportive and really want you to succeed. I think the college as a whole can be a little greedy because we pay a fair amount to attend in the first place, yet the cafeteria is extremely overpriced, especially for what you get. For being a world recognized cafeteria, the food is decent, but not great and there is little variety. If you want pizza, pasta or fried rice though, you are set! Most importantly, the community feel is like nowhere else and you can be confident that you will be more than content at Gustavus.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Gustavus Adolphus College is 64%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
Study HARD. Do as many different things in high school that you can possibly do. Maintain the highest grade point average you can. DO NOT DRINK OR DO DRUGS OR SMOKE OR HAVE SEX! DO NOT post stupid pictures on facebook that would defame or belittle yourself or OTHERS, your family, your church or your God. GET LOTS OF SLEEP. If you have to work outside of school, try to keep it to a minimum. Money isn't everything. SCHOOL is your NUMBER ONE JOB. DO NOT own a car. It is outrageously expensive, insurance is crazy and it does NOT make you look cool. VISIT every college campus you are interested in. You will know in your gut which one is right for you. Go to school EVERY SINGLE DAY unless you are violently ill. RESPECT your teachers in every possible way. BE KIND TO EVERYONE as you will never know who or whom just MIGHT BE YOUR BOSS one day. DO NOT burn bridges. When you are getting ready and packing for college and when you are all done, put AT LEAST half of it back. Dorm rooms are SMALL! last but not least, RELAX.
What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?
Before coming to this school, I didn't know a lot about the world around me. I was stuck in my own little world. I would challenge prospective students to explore and do research about life outside of their comfort zone. I am currently involved in multiple social justice organizations and activities, and I have loved the opportunity to learn new things every single day. I would challenge someone that is thinking of coming here to realize that Gustavus is a campus devoted to teaching and embracing all different ideas and cultures.
MOTIVATED! OPEN MINDED! SINCERE! HONEST! These are just a few of the terms that I can come up with from the top of my head in answer to the question "what type of person should attend this school". A few others: LIFE LOVER, a person who possesses,INTEGRITY, CONFIDENT, SELFLESS, SMART, HARD WORKING, MATURE, SOLID, STRONG, TALENTED,GIFTED, COMMITTED, and AWESOME. What I think is more important to answer is "who shoud NOT attend Gustavus..." do NOT even apply to Gustavus unless you are ready to work hard and accept EVERY SINGLE OPPORTUNITY to improve yourself and EXPAND your mind.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
The diversity level at Gustavus Adolphus College is not very high. We have a great diversity center for all students as well as a great staff to assist with any problems. The college can work on trying to diversify the college community as well as providing more resources for those who need it.
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
I choose Gustavus because it really feels like a college campus. It is small enough that I can walk anywhere on campus in less than ten minutes, and it is set apart from the city so there aren't any major roads running right through it. There is a strong sense of community. Most of the activities are on campus, and you never go long without seeing someone you know. I also love that Gustavus has a January Interim Experience. It is a nice break between semesters and a good chance to take a class outside of my major.
What kind of person should not attend this school?
I believe that someone who is looking for a large student body in a more urban setting would not enjoy attending Gustavus. Being a small and very close-knit community in the somewhat isolated town of Saint Peter, this kind of person would not flourish in this environment. I also think that someone who is close-minded and unwilling to be accepting of others would not be an adequate fit for this school because of the close, family-like relationship the student body, teachers and staff share.
GREATNESS in ALL aspects of Education. Education in all academic specialities, MUSIC and DRAMA and LIFE and GOODNESS! For over 150 years Gustavus Adolphus has endured the test of time and those that are lucky enough to attend this fine school, must have an INATE sense of PRIDE and be DRIVEN TO SUCCEED. This is a WONDERFUL COLLEGE and it is NOT for goof offs, or lazy people or close minded students. I visited many colleges and had many to choose from. In ALL aspects of what I needed in a college, GUSTAVUS WAS and IS the ONLY CHOICE!
In my opinion, I believe that the relationship amongst the students, faculty and staff is undoubtedly the best thing about Gustavus. We truly feel like we are one big family. This is evident on the very first day of school as upper classmen and staff warmly accept incoming students into the community. We strive to support and help one another to the best of our ability at all times. This strong sense of community is extremely unique to Gustavus.
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
It can be difficult to live on a campus so small. There are times that I just need to leave "the Hill", as we call it, because I feel like I get stuck in a patern of doing the same thing with the same group of people too often. I do wish it was larger here, but at the same time I can appreciate it being so small and intimate. I love how small it is when it comes to class discussions and being able to talk one on one with professors.
The campus is secluded in a small town. There is a tight-knit feel on campus but that is because people never get out! There is NO "town" or "city" to go to, you ALWAYS stay on campus.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
97% of students attending Gustavus Adolphus College receive some sort of financial aid.
27% were awarded federal grants.65%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.
