Marist University, formerly Marist College until January 2025, is a private teaching-focused institution in Poughkeepsie, New York, founded by the Marist Brothers in 1929. It ranks #9 in Regional Universities North by US News Best Colleges 2026, a tier grouping US institutions with full undergraduate and master’s programmes but limited doctoral output.
The university offers 47 undergraduate majors and 15 graduate programmes, all taught in English. Two STEM-designated master’s degrees, MS Information Systems and MS Computer Science in Software Development, qualify graduates for the 36-month STEM OPT extension in the United States. Indian applicants join a 195-student international community drawn from 50 countries, a smaller cohort than at larger research universities in USA.
- US News Regional Universities North 2026: #9 (up from #11 in 2025)
- Acceptance rate: 57%
- Intakes: Fall (August) and Spring (January)
- Standard PG tuition: USD 1,030 per credit (INR 91,155)
- Total student body: 6,356 with 195 international
- Median starting salary (1 year post-graduation): USD 49,831 (INR 44.1 lakh)
Merit scholarships of USD 10,000 to 30,000 per year offset the published UG tuition of USD 46,920 (INR 41.5 lakh), while international graduate applicants receive up to USD 4,000 (INR 3.5 lakh) across a two-year degree. Indian students pursue the F-1 visa route through on-campus programmes; the online MBA is not F-1 visa eligible, so visa-seekers should shortlist in-person tracks. Compare with peer MS universities in USA before finalising the shortlist.
Exchange rate used: 1 USD = INR 88.5 as of September 2026
Admission Status: Open (Spring 2027 graduate and Fall 2027 undergraduate intakes). Spring 2027 graduate applications accept a recommended deadline of November 1, 2026 on a rolling basis via GradCAS; the online MBA closes December 1, 2026 and is not F-1 visa eligible. Fall 2027 undergraduate Early Decision I and Early Action deadlines are November 1 and November 15, 2026 respectively, with Regular Decision and Early Decision II closing February 15, 2027.
Table of Contents
- Popular Courses and Fees at Marist University 2027
- Marist University Admission 2027
- Marist University Admission Requirements for Indian Applicants 2027
- Marist Acceptance Rate 2027
- Marist Fees and Cost of Living for Indian Students 2027
- Marist University Campus, Facilities and Student Life
- Marist Scholarships 2027
- Marist University Rankings 2027
- Marist Placements and Career Outcomes 2027
- Marist University vs Peer Universities
- Marist University FAQs
Popular Courses and Fees at Marist University 2027
Marist University charges USD 1,030 per credit for standard graduate programmes, USD 1,270 per credit for MS Professional Accountancy, and USD 1,350 per credit for MS Physician Assistant Studies. Full-time undergraduates pay a flat USD 46,920 annual tuition. Two-year master’s programmes typically require 30 to 60 credits depending on discipline. The tables below list top graduate and undergraduate options with total programme costs.
Marist University Top 10 Postgraduate Programmes 2027
| Programme | Total Fee (USD) | Total Fee (INR lakh) | Entry Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| MS Information Systems (STEM) | 59,400 | 52.6 lakh | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| MS Computer Science Software Development (STEM) | 59,400 | 52.6 lakh | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| MS Physician Assistant Studies | 88,320 | 78.2 lakh | Bachelor’s in health sciences with 65% or CGPA 6.5/10 (recommended) |
| MS Professional Accountancy | 60,960 | 53.9 lakh | Bachelor’s in accounting or commerce with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| MS Education | 49,440 | 43.8 lakh | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| MPA Public Administration | 49,440 | 43.8 lakh | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| MS Social Work | 49,440 | 43.8 lakh | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| MA Clinical Mental Health Counseling | 49,440 | 43.8 lakh | Bachelor’s in psychology or related field with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| MA Marketing Communication | 49,440 | 43.8 lakh | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| MS Athletic Training | 49,440 | 43.8 lakh | Bachelor’s in kinesiology or related field with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
[Source: Marist University Graduate Tuition Schedule 2026-2027]
Marist University Top 5 Undergraduate Programmes 2027
| Programme | Total Fee (USD) | Total Fee (INR lakh) | Entry Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| BS Data Science and Analytics | 187,680 | 166.1 lakh | Class 12 with 75% to 85% (recommended) |
| BS Business Administration | 187,680 | 166.1 lakh | Class 12 with 70% to 85% (recommended) |
| BS Information Technology | 187,680 | 166.1 lakh | Class 12 with 70% to 85% (recommended) |
| BS Accounting | 187,680 | 166.1 lakh | Class 12 with 70% to 85% (recommended) |
| BS Fashion Merchandising | 187,680 | 166.1 lakh | Class 12 with 70% to 85% (recommended) |
[Source: Marist University Undergraduate Tuition Schedule 2026-2027]
Insider note: Indian applicants concentrate in the two STEM-designated master’s tracks (MS Information Systems and MS Computer Science Software Development) because these qualify for the 36-month OPT extension, cover a two-year degree at USD 59,400 (INR 52.6 lakh), and waive the GRE requirement.
Read More: Marist University Fees and Programmes Guide
Marist University Admission 2027
Marist University runs Fall (August) and Spring (January) intakes for both undergraduate and graduate applicants, with graduate admissions handled on a rolling basis through GradCAS. The primary intake for Indian applicants is Fall entry, which aligns with the standard US academic calendar and gives adequate time for F-1 visa processing.
| Milestone | Date | Notes for Indian Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| Spring 2027 Graduate application (rolling) | November 1, 2026 (recommended) | Via GradCAS; earlier submissions get I-20 priority |
| Fall 2027 UG Early Decision I | November 1, 2026 | Binding; strongest merit-aid consideration |
| Fall 2027 UG Early Action | November 15, 2026 | Non-binding; preferred for Indian applicants |
| Fall 2027 UG Regular Decision and ED II | February 15, 2027 | Final UG deadline |
| WES credential verification | Start 6 to 8 weeks before deadline | Required for Indian transcripts |
[Source: Marist University International Admissions and GradCAS deadlines]
Planning note: The online MBA closes December 1, 2026 for Spring 2027 but is not F-1 student visa eligible under US federal rules. Indian applicants who need a US visa should apply to campus-based tracks such as MS Information Systems, MS Computer Science Software Development, or MS Physician Assistant Studies at the Poughkeepsie campus.
Read More: Marist University Admissions Guide for Indian Students
Marist University Admission Requirements for Indian Applicants 2027
The core Marist University requirement for Indian graduate applicants is a recognised bachelor’s degree with strong academic standing and an English proficiency score.
Postgraduate Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree: Three-year or four-year Indian bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended); professional programmes such as PA Studies require 65% or CGPA 6.5/10 (recommended)
- English proficiency: TOEFL iBT 80 (0-120 legacy scale), IELTS 6.5 overall, or Duolingo English Test 115
- GRE: Not required for MS Information Systems, MS Computer Science Software Development, or MBA; other programmes may request scores
- Credential evaluation: WES or NACES-member evaluation recommended for Indian transcripts
Undergraduate Requirements
- Class 12 board results: CBSE, ICSE or state board with 70% to 85% aggregate (recommended)
- English proficiency: TOEFL iBT 80, IELTS 6.5, or Duolingo English Test 115; waived for students completing four years at English-medium schools
- Common Application: Personal essay, one counselor recommendation, and two teacher recommendations
Key insight: Marist accepts the Duolingo English Test at 115, one of the lower thresholds among US Regional Universities North. Indian applicants who miss the IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 80 cutoff can retake the Duolingo test online at USD 65 and receive results within 48 hours, saving weeks compared to a formal centre-based retake.
Marist Acceptance Rate 2027
The Marist University acceptance rate is 57% per US News Best Colleges 2026, based on the most recent admissions cycle disclosed. The rate has hovered between 46% and 57% over the past three cycles as the university’s regional ranking has climbed.
| Year | Acceptance Rate | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 cycle | 57% | Selectivity easing as class expands |
| 2025 cycle | 46% | Tightening from prior years |
| 2024 cycle | 50% | Post-pandemic normalisation |
[Source: US News Best Colleges 2026 admissions data]
Marist is classified as moderately selective; strong academic profiles from Indian applicants clear the bar comfortably. Early Action applications historically see an early acceptance rate of 67%, giving proactive candidates a real edge.
Reality check: A 57% acceptance rate does not mean easy entry for Indian applicants competing for STEM master’s seats. The two OPT-eligible programmes (MS Information Systems and MS Computer Science Software Development) run tighter class caps, and international applicants must clear the English proficiency floor before the academic review begins.
Read More: Marist University Acceptance Rate Analysis
Marist Fees and Cost of Living for Indian Students 2027
Total annual cost for an Indian student at Marist University runs USD 69,840 to USD 92,000 (INR 61.8 lakh to 81.4 lakh) for undergraduate programmes and USD 47,640 to USD 67,080 (INR 42.2 lakh to 59.4 lakh) for standard graduate programmes, combining tuition and monthly living costs in Poughkeepsie. The following breakdowns cover the fee schedule and the Hudson Valley cost of living. Applicants comparing options should also review peer MBA universities in USA.
Marist Fees for Indian Students by Programme 2027
| Level | Annual Tuition (USD) | Annual Tuition (INR lakh) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (all majors) | 46,920 | 41.51 lakh |
| Graduate standard (per credit basis) | 24,720 to 30,480 | 21.88 to 26.97 lakh |
| MS Physician Assistant Studies | 44,160 | 39.08 lakh |
| MS Professional Accountancy | 30,480 | 26.97 lakh |
| Health insurance (mandatory for international) | 3,200 | 2.83 lakh |
[Source: Marist University Student Financial Services 2026-2027 schedule]
Monthly Cost of Living in Poughkeepsie for Indian Students
| Expense | Monthly (USD) | Monthly (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (shared off-campus) | 1,200 | 1.06 lakh |
| Food and groceries | 350 | 30,975 |
| Transportation | 80 | 7,080 |
| Books and supplies | 80 | 7,080 |
| Personal and utilities | 200 | 17,700 |
| Total monthly | 1,910 | 1.69 lakh |
| Total annual | 22,920 | 20.28 lakh |
[Source: RentCafe Poughkeepsie NY Cost of Living Index 2026 (estimated)]
Insider note: On-campus housing at Marist costs USD 17,000 to 18,000 (INR 15.0 to 15.9 lakh) per academic year including meals, which often works out cheaper than off-campus for first-year students given Poughkeepsie rents 30% above the US national average. Indian graduate students typically shift off-campus by year two to shared apartments near the Route 9 corridor.
Read More: Cost of Living for Indian Students in USA
Marist University Campus, Facilities and Student Life
Marist University occupies a 240-acre riverfront campus on the Hudson River in Poughkeepsie, New York, about 130 kilometres north of Manhattan and reachable in 90 minutes by Metro-North train from Grand Central Terminal.
- Location and transport: Poughkeepsie sits in the Hudson Valley with direct train access to New York City; the campus shuttle runs to Poughkeepsie station and downtown
- Housing: Guaranteed on-campus for all four undergraduate years; typical rooms USD 17,000 to 18,000 per year with meal plan; international students prioritised
- Signature facilities: Hancock Center technology hub, Steel Plant Studios for fashion and art, Longview Park athletic complex, and the Cabaret Theatre
- Indian community: Small but active South Asian Student Alliance; roughly 78 Indian students across undergraduate and graduate levels based on recent enrolment data
What Indian students say: Postgraduates report that the small class sizes (16:1 student-faculty ratio) mean direct professor access from week one. STEM master’s cohorts note the Hancock Center offers 24-hour lab access. Winters run cold with heavy snow from December to March, so budgeting for winter clothing is important.
Marist Scholarships 2027
Marist University awards five named scholarships to incoming students, including one targeted at international graduate applicants. All are merit-based with automatic consideration; there is no dedicated India-nationality scholarship.
| Scholarship | Type | Award Value | Eligibility | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Presidential Scholarship | UG merit | USD 22,000 to 30,000 per year (INR 19.5 to 26.6 lakh) | Superior academic performance and rigorous coursework | Automatic on admission application |
| Marist Scholarship | UG merit | USD 10,000 to 20,000 per year (INR 8.9 to 17.7 lakh) | Strong academic achievement in core subjects | Automatic on admission application |
| Endowed Scholarships | UG need-plus-merit | Varies | Completed FAFSA and ScholarshipUniverse profile | Priority March 31, 2026; final April 30, 2026 |
| International Graduate Scholarship | PG international | Up to USD 4,000 across two-year degree (INR 3.5 lakh) | Admitted international graduate students | Automatic on admission |
| Alumni Scholarship | UG legacy | USD 5,000 per year for four years (INR 4.4 lakh per year) | Children of Marist University alumni | Automatic on admission |
[Source: Marist University Financial Aid Office 2026-2027]
Planning note: Indian graduate applicants often over-index on the USD 4,000 International Graduate Scholarship, which offsets only 6% of the two-year MS cost. A more productive strategy is to secure a graduate assistantship after arrival; Marist funds a limited number of research and teaching assistant roles that cover tuition plus a stipend.
Read More: Marist University Scholarships Guide
Marist University Rankings 2027
Marist University’s strongest ranking is #9 in US News Regional Universities North 2026, its third consecutive top-10 finish and a two-place climb from #11 in 2025. As a teaching-focused regional US institution, Marist does not participate meaningfully in the research-heavy QS World or Times Higher Education global rankings.
| Ranking Body | Latest Edition | Previous Edition | Two Editions Back |
|---|---|---|---|
| US News Best Colleges (Regional Universities North) | 2026: #9 | 2025: #11 | 2024: not disclosed |
| US News Best Undergraduate Teaching (North) | 2026: #5 | 2025: #16 | 2024: not disclosed |
| US News Most Innovative Schools (North) | 2026: #18 | 2025: #3 | 2024: not disclosed |
| US News Best Value Schools (North) | 2025: #33 | Not disclosed | Not disclosed |
| QS World University Rankings 2027 | Not ranked in QS World top 1000 | NA | NA |
[Source: US News Best Colleges 2026, QS World University Rankings 2027]
At the subject level, US News 2025 ranks Marist #20 in Public Policy across US universities, and CS graduates command the highest starting salary among Marist majors at USD 74,700 (INR 66.1 lakh).
Key insight: The US News Regional Universities North tier holds full accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, which means Marist degrees are recognised for the H-1B lottery and by Indian regulators including AICTE and AIU. A regional US ranking does not weaken employer recognition in India for tech and finance roles.
Read More: Marist University Rankings Analysis
Marist Placements and Career Outcomes 2027
Marist reports that 95% of graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school within six months of finishing their degree, backed by an 80% overall graduation rate that places Marist in the top 15% of US institutions nationally.
- Placement rate: 95% employed or in graduate school within 6 months
- Median starting salary (all majors, 1 year post): USD 49,831 (INR 44.1 lakh)
- Six-year median salary: USD 62,546 (INR 55.4 lakh), roughly 43% above the US national median
- Top-paying majors: Computer Science USD 74,700 (INR 66.1 lakh) and Computer & Information Sciences USD 73,400 (INR 65.0 lakh) starting salaries
- Career support: Marist Career Services runs employer visits, resume reviews and mock interviews; STEM OPT for 36 months for MS Info Systems and MS CS Software Development graduates
Insider note: Indian STEM master’s graduates from Marist commonly convert OPT into H-1B sponsorship with tri-state area tech and finance employers. The 36-month STEM extension gives three H-1B lottery attempts, materially improving the odds of long-term US employment compared with the 12-month non-STEM OPT window.
Marist University vs Peer Universities
Marist competes primarily with mid-size private teaching-focused universities in the US Northeast. The peers below are selected from US News Regional Universities North and comparable-tier institutions, benchmarked on QS World 2027 (where applicable) and annual PG tuition.
| University | QS World 2027 | US News Regional (North) 2026 | Annual PG Fee (USD / INR lakh) | Differentiator |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marist University | Not in top 1000 | #9 | 24,720 to 30,480 / 21.88 to 26.97 lakh | STEM OPT for CS and Info Systems, no GRE |
| Fairfield University | Not in top 1000 | #3 | 28,000 to 32,000 / 24.78 to 28.32 lakh | Jesuit tradition; strong finance recruiting |
| Providence College | Not in top 1000 | #1 | 27,000 to 30,000 / 23.9 to 26.55 lakh | Highest US News Regional North rank |
| Bentley University | Not in top 1000 | #7 | 50,000 to 56,000 / 44.25 to 49.56 lakh | Business-focused, higher tuition and recruiter density |
| Ithaca College | Not in top 1000 | #8 | 26,000 to 30,000 / 23.01 to 26.55 lakh | Strong communications and media programmes |
[Source: US News Best Colleges 2026, individual university graduate tuition schedules]
Marist stands out for its combination of STEM OPT eligibility on two master’s tracks, no GRE requirement, and a lower per-credit rate than Bentley for a comparable regional ranking.
Indian applicants targeting the Northeast US teaching-focused tier find Marist competitive on cost, STEM designation and merit-aid availability, particularly where a large research university is neither affordable nor the fit.
Marist University suits Indian students who want a small teaching-focused US degree at moderate cost, a two-year MS in Information Systems or Computer Science Software Development at USD 59,400 (INR 52.6 lakh), and a 36-month STEM OPT window that supports three H-1B lottery attempts. The Fall entry route via Early Action gives the strongest merit-aid outcomes, and the median 1-year salary of USD 49,831 (INR 44.1 lakh) makes the ROI competitive on a study in USA shortlist.
Marist is not the fit for research PhD candidates or applicants set on a Top-100 QS World brand. Those profiles should shortlist Purdue University West Lafayette or the SUNY system flagships instead, where global research rankings and doctoral supervision are stronger anchors than teaching quality.
Marist University FAQs
Ques. What documents does Marist University require from Indian graduate applicants?
Ans. Marist University requires official transcripts from every prior institution, a bachelor’s degree certificate, a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, a resume and English proficiency scores (TOEFL iBT 80, IELTS 6.5 or Duolingo English Test 115). Programme-specific supplements may apply. Applicants submit everything through GradCAS with a USD 50 application fee. Documents older than six months are not accepted for I-20 processing.
Ques. How does Marist evaluate Indian academic transcripts and grades?
Ans. Marist accepts direct transcripts from recognised Indian universities but recommends credential evaluation through WES or another NACES member for competitive candidates and for I-20 processing. WES converts Indian percentages and CGPAs into US 4.0 GPA equivalents that the admissions committee reviews alongside programme-specific benchmarks. The evaluation typically takes 4 to 6 weeks; Indian applicants should start it at least 8 weeks before the intake deadline.
Ques. Can Marist waive the GRE for MS Information Systems applicants?
Ans. Marist does not require the GRE for the MS in Information Systems or the MS in Computer Science Software Development, which are the two STEM-designated master’s tracks favoured by Indian applicants. The admissions committee evaluates the bachelor’s transcript, statement of purpose, relevant work experience and English scores. Applicants may still submit GRE scores voluntarily; strong quantitative results can strengthen borderline files but are not needed.
Ques. Are Marist University online master’s programmes eligible for the F-1 visa?
Ans. Online programmes at Marist University, including the online MBA, MS Education, MPA and MS Social Work, are not F-1 student visa eligible. US federal rules limit F-1 status to programmes requiring physical presence. Indian applicants seeking a US visa must choose campus-based tracks: MS Information Systems, MS Computer Science Software Development, MS Professional Accountancy, DPT or MS Physician Assistant Studies at Poughkeepsie.
Ques. Which Indian banks fund Marist University education loans for Indian students?
Ans. Marist University holds recognition with major Indian lenders including State Bank of India, HDFC Credila, Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, Avanse and Auxilo. Secured loans typically cover the two-year cost of USD 60,000 to 90,000 for graduate programmes. Unsecured loans up to INR 40 lakh are available through non-banking financial companies. Applicants should present the I-20 and admission letter for loan sanction before the F-1 visa interview.
Ques. What financial documentation does Marist University require for the I-20 form?
Ans. Marist University requires a signed Declaration of Finances (affidavit) on stamp paper, a bank statement dated within six months showing funds for one academic year and a passport identity page scan. The affidavit amount is specified per programme, typically covering tuition plus USD 22,000 in living expenses. Marist emails the I-20 once documents are verified; the emailed copy is officially accepted at US embassies for the F-1 interview.
Ques. How many hours can Marist F-1 students work on campus?
Ans. Marist F-1 students may work up to 20 hours per week on campus while classes are in session, and full-time during breaks. Typical on-campus jobs include library assistant, dining services and research assistantships paying USD 12 to 18 per hour. Off-campus work requires prior CPT or OPT authorisation processed through the Marist International Programmes office. Indian students commonly begin on-campus employment after the first semester.
Ques. Which post-study work option applies to Marist STEM graduates?
Ans. Marist STEM master’s graduates from the MS Information Systems and MS Computer Science Software Development programmes qualify for the standard 12-month OPT plus a 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving up to 36 months of US work authorisation. Non-STEM graduates receive the standard 12-month OPT. Employers must be enrolled in E-Verify for the STEM extension. Indian graduates commonly transition from OPT to H-1B sponsorship during this period.
Marist College Program Fees & Deadlines
| Program | Important Dates | Fees | Application Fees | Eligibility | Financial Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
M.S Information Systems 2 years | INR 28.1 L/Yr USD 29,700 /Yr | 50 | Duolingo-115 |
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Marist College Scholarships
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program | Scholarship per student₹ 9.5 L/Yr$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Axol Science Scholarship | Scholarship per student₹ 1.9 L/Yr$2,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCompany-Sponsored | |
| VueVille Future Technology Scholarship | Scholarship per student₹ 94,510/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| R&D Systems Scholarship | Scholarship per student₹ 1.4 L/Yr$1,500 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| QS Connect Master’s Scholarship | Scholarship per student₹ 4.7 L/Yr$5,000 | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| BL Mandhana Scholarships | Scholarship per student₹ 9.5 L/Yr$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based |
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Marist College Admissions
Application Portal: https://www.marist.edu/admission/freshman/onlineapp.html
Early Action Deadlines
Important Date: November1 (Application deadline)Important Date: April1 (Application results)Regular Decision Deadlines
Important Date: January15 (Application deadline)Important Date: April1 (Application results)
Marist College Exam Scores
| Exams | Avg. Score | Min Score | Max. Score | %Submitted' |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graduate | ||||
| GRE | 312.8 | - | - | - |
Attendance Cost
The table shows average yearly cost of attendance for international students. Amount may vary with the course opted, nature of accommodation, and personal spending habits of a candidate.Check Program wise Fees
Marist College Accreditations
Faculty
| Total Faculty | Full Time | Part Time | Graduate Assistants |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8491 | 3505 | 4986 | - |


















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