![]()
Gustavus has had several different names—Norelius' School, Jackson's School, Minnesota Elementar Skola (Minnesota Prepatory School), St. Ansgar's Academy, and then Gustavus Adolphus Literary and Theological Institute (since shortened to Gustavus Adolphus College).
Academic quality. The “campus feel.” Residential life. Money. The food. All these factors and so many more can affect your college decision. Every college you’re researching has different options and strengths. So, how can you choose one? Why choose Gustavus?
Gustavus is known for its academic quality. It’s the most important feature of a college—you are, after all, going to college for your education. You can measure Gustavus’ academic quality many ways: faculty credentials, curriculum options, average class size, graduation outcomes, hosting a Phi Beta Kappa chapter, and more.
Yet, we want you to look at the whole college, not only our academic reputation—just like we look at “the whole you” when evaluating your application for admission, not only your GPA and test scores.
Think carefully about what features you’re looking for in a college—what will influence your college experience. Then, discover why you might choose Gustavus.
![]()
There are no events to display at this time.

Bjorn Olson
economics major
Isle, MN
I think Gustavus chose me. My main reason for applying to Gustavus was that the application was free. It couldn't hurt. It ended up that Gustavus is the right place for me. Its country atmosphere ...