Mercer University, established in 1833, is a private university located in Macon, Georgia, with additional campuses in Atlanta, Savannah, and Columbus. It offers over 150 undergraduate and graduate programs across disciplines such as business, engineering, health professions, liberal arts, law, and medicine. As per U.S. News & World Report 2025, Mercer is ranked #165 in National Universities and #40 in Best Value Schools, with strong placements in undergraduate engineering and teaching.
Mercer University acceptance rate is 68.8%, with 6,760 students admitted out of 9,813 applicants, making it a moderately selective option for international students. Programs like MBA, MS in Business Analytics, MS in Preclinical Sciences, and MS in Organizational Leadership are popular choices among Indian applicants.
Indian students applying for postgraduate programs typically need a three- or four-year bachelor’s degree with a GPA equivalent to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. For undergraduate courses, applicants generally need a minimum of 60% in Class 12, along with English proficiency test scores such as IELTS 6.5 or Duolingo 115. The average annual tuition fee ranges from $12,168 to $17,982 (~₹10.5–15.6 lakhs) for PG programs and approximately $42,012 (~₹36.4 lakhs) for UG programs, while the estimated cost of living is $26,219 (~₹22.7 lakhs) per year.
Table of Contents
Mercer University offers a wide range of programs across business, science, and liberal arts. Below is a breakdown of top programs along with annual tuition fees:
| Program | Tuition Fee (USD/year) | Tuition Fee (INR/year) |
|---|---|---|
| M.S Preclinical Sciences | $17,982 | ₹15.6 Lakhs |
| M.B.A | $17,784 | ₹15.4 Lakhs |
| M.S Business Analytics | $17,784 | ₹15.4 Lakhs |
| M.S Organizational Leadership | $12,168 | ₹10.5 Lakhs |
| M.S Environmental Systems | $17,982 | ₹15.6 Lakhs |
| M.S Human Services | $12,168 | ₹10.5 Lakhs |
| B.A Philosophy | $42,012 | ₹36.4 Lakhs |
| B.S Criminal Justice Leadership | $42,012 | ₹36.4 Lakhs |
To apply for a postgraduate program at Mercer University, international students must meet academic, professional, and English language proficiency requirements. The application process is holistic and allows applicants the flexibility to apply with or without standardized test scores.
Basic Eligibility
English Language Requirements
| Test | Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
| Duolingo (DET) | 115 (no section below 110) |
| TOEFL iBT | 80 (no section below 18) |
| TOEFL pBT | 70 (no section below 18) |
| IELTS | 6.5 (no section below 6.0) |
| iTEP Academic Plus | 4.5 (no section below 4.0) |
| PTE Academic | 54 (no section below 50) |
#Note: These requirements are applicable for all international students.
Also Read: Mercer University Admissions 2025
Mercer University offers multiple MBA program formats, including a 30-credit General MBA and a 36-credit MBA with a concentration or graduate certificate. Students can complete the program online or at the Atlanta or Macon campus. These options allow applicants to select a format based on their location, professional commitments, and academic goals.
Program Structure
Application Requirements
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | $100 (international applicants) |
| GMAT/GRE Scores | Optional. Applicants can either submit scores or apply under the test-optional policy |
| Statement of Purpose | Required for test-optional applicants; up to 500 words outlining academic goals and interest in Mercer |
| Academic Transcripts | Required from all previously attended institutions; unofficial copies accepted for review |
| Résumé | Should include educational background and relevant work experience |
Explore: MBA in USA
Mercer University accepts undergraduate applications from international students through either the Common Application or the Mercer Application. There is no preference between the two platforms.
Application Components
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Platform | Common App or Mercer App |
| Official High School Transcripts | Required in English. Upon admission, a course-by-course evaluation with GPA is required through WES or Josef Silny & Associates |
| Standardized Test Scores | SAT/ACT scores are optional. Super scoring is applied if multiple test results are submitted |
| Language Proficiency Scores | Required for non-native English speakers or if the language of instruction was not English |
| Letter of Recommendation | Required only for Test Optional applicants. Should be written by a teacher or counselor in English |
SAT/ACT Language Score Exemptions
Applicants may be exempted from submitting an English proficiency test if they meet the following minimum scores:
| Test | Required Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| ACT | 23 in Reading and English |
| SAT | 580 in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (EBRW) |
#Note: Test scores can be self-reported during the application stage but must be officially submitted before enrollment.
The total cost of attending Mercer University includes both direct charges such as tuition and fees, and indirect expenses like housing, food, transportation, and personal costs. These estimates are based on full-time enrollment over a standard 9-month academic year (fall and spring semesters).
Tuition and Fees
Undergraduate Tuition: Approximately $42,000 per year
Estimated Indirect Costs (9 Months)
| Cost Component | Monthly Estimate (USD) | Annual Estimate (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Books & Supplies | $66 per credit | $1,188 |
| Housing | $1,572 | $14,148 |
| Food | $517 | $4,653 |
| Transportation | $436 | $3,924 |
| Personal Expenses | $236 | $2,124 |
| Federal Loan Fees | Flat estimate | $182 |
| Total Indirect Costs | $2,761 | $26,219 |
Total Estimated Annual Cost
| Student Type | Estimated Annual Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | ~$68,000 (including tuition and living expenses) |
| Postgraduate | ~$38,000–$44,000 (depending on program tuition) |
Mercer University automatically considers all admitted first-year applicants for merit-based scholarships. These scholarships are awarded based on academic performance, leadership potential, and other application materials.
Key Scholarships for Indian Students
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| General Merit Scholarships | $18,000–$25,000 per year | Automatically awarded upon admission based on academic merit. Renewable up to 4 years. |
| Stamps Scholars Program | Full tuition, fees, housing, food, and up to $16,000 enrichment stipend | Invitation-based. Requires strong leadership, service, and academic profile. Apply by Nov 1. |
| Bessie Willingham Tift Scholarship | Full tuition, housing, and food | Highly competitive. Open to exceptional applicants. Requires attendance at scholarship interview weekend. |
| National Merit Scholarship | $2,000 per year | For National Merit Finalists who designate Mercer as their first choice. |
| FIRST Robotics Scholarship | $1,000 per year | For students with experience in competitive robotics (FIRST FRC or FTC teams). |
Also Read: Scholarships to Study in USA
Mercer University’s main campus is located in Macon, Georgia, and is complemented by additional campuses in Atlanta, Savannah, and Columbus, as well as academic centers in Douglas and Henry counties.
Macon Campus (Main Campus):
Established in 1871, the Macon campus is Mercer’s historic and academic core. It offers programs across liberal arts, business, engineering, medicine, music, and education. Known for its Victorian-Gothic architecture, magnolia-lined quads, and the iconic Godsey Administration Building, it was ranked among the 25 most picturesque U.S. campuses by U.S. News.
Key facilities include:
Law School Campus:
Located on Coleman Hill in Macon, Mercer’s School of Law features Independence Hall-style architecture and offers a separate, focused environment for legal studies.
Health & Wellness
Mercer provides health services across its Macon and Atlanta campuses through Campus Health, which includes primary care, counseling, and wellness resources.
Athletics & Recreation:
Other Campuses:
Read More: Mercer University Gallery
According to Class of 2023 data, 95% of graduates were employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation.
| Program/School | Placement Rate | Timeframe |
|---|---|---|
| M.S. in Athletic Training | 100% | Within 6 months of licensure |
| PsyD in Clinical Psychology | 100% | Within 6 months of graduation |
| M.M.Sc. in Physician Assistant | 98.5% (2023), 97% (2022) | Within 6–24 months of licensure |
| DPT in Physical Therapy | 100% | Within 12 months (seeking employment) |
| MPH / BSPH in Public Health | 96% (MPH), 100% (BSPH) | Within 12 months |
| PharmD (Pharmacy) | 93% | Within 3 months |
| M.S. Clinical Counseling Programs (3 tracks) | 90% | Within 12 months |
| PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision | 100% | Within 12 months |
| B.S.N. & Graduate Nursing Programs | 100% | Within 12 months |
| School of Law (J.D.) | 94% | Within 10 months |
| School of Medicine (M.D.) | 99.3% Residency Match Rate | 2025 class |
| M.Div. / M.A. Christian Ministry / D.Min. | 81%–100% | Within 1 year |
| Education (BSEd, MAT) | 90% | Within 3 months |
Below are the average salaries of Mercer University graduates with respect to their job titles:
| Job Title | Average Salary (USD) | Average Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical Engineer | $91,300 | ₹75.8 lakhs |
| Physical Therapist (PT) | $73,403 | ₹61 lakhs |
| Physician Assistant (PA) | $117,439 (Est.) | ₹97.5 lakhs |
| Senior Accountant | $78,211 (Est.) | ₹65 lakhs |
| Human Resources (HR) Director | $118,775 (Est.) | ₹98.6 lakhs |
| Mechanical Engineer | $88,750 (Est.) | ₹73.7 lakhs |
| Technical Writer | $73,698 (Est.) | ₹61.2 lakhs |
Mercer University is nationally recognized for its value and program-specific strengths. Below is a summary of its latest rankings according to U.S. News & World Report 2025:
| Category | Rank |
|---|---|
| National Universities | #165 (tie) |
| Best Value Schools | #40 |
| Best Colleges for Veterans | #162 |
| Best Undergraduate Teaching | #56 (tie) |
| Top Performers on Social Mobility | #129 (tie) |
| Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs* | #53 (tie) |
| Undergraduate Nursing | #130 (tie) |
| Business Programs | Ranked (no specific rank) |
| Psychology Programs | Ranked (no specific rank) |
Also Check: Best US News ranked Universities/Colleges in USA
Mercer University ranks among the top 165 National Universities in the U.S. (U.S. News 2025) and offers over 130 academic programs across undergraduate and graduate levels. Graduate tuition starts at approximately $12,168 per year, and merit scholarships for undergraduates range from $18,000 to $25,000 annually. The university reports a 95% placement or continuing education rate within six months of graduation.
