Amherst College, Amherst, MA
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Amherst College is known for its rigorous academics, close-knit community, and open curriculum. Its 1,000 acre campus is located in Amherst, MA, with its own wildlife sanctuary. It’s a member of a five college consortium. The campus blends historic charm with modern facilities and fosters a rich academic and social environment.
QUICK STATS
• Private
• Undergraduate enrollment – 1,900
• Admit rate – 9%
• FAFSA and CSS Profile
• Retention rate – 98%
• Average Class size – 20 (STEM classes are larger ~80 and offer breakout sessions)
• Student to faculty ratio – 7:1
CURRICULUM
• Popular majors include – Mathematics, Economics, Psychology, Computer Science, English, Law, Jurisprudence, and Social Thought
• Offers an open curriculum – no distribution requirements – students start with a first year seminar, take about 10-11 classes in their major and the rest is for exploring
• Able to design your own interdisciplinary major
• No minors
• Promotes interdisciplinary thinking and making connections
• Cross-registration with nearby colleges (UMass Amherst, Smith, Mount Holyoke, and Hampshire) through the Five College Consortium
• 50% of students pursue classes through the consortium
• Bus systems transports students between campuses
• Strong advising from professors promoting a growth mindset
• 45% of students study abroad
• Crossover schools include Williams, Swarthmore, Pomona, Middlebury, Brown, Harvard, Yale
STUDENT BODY
• Attracts students who are curious and enjoy discussion based learning – no one is lost in the crowd, nor can they hide there
• Orientation begins with week long orientation trips in groups of 12
• Great for students that are independent, intellectually curious, socially conscious, collaborative
• While the location is rural, there is access to larger shopping areas and other destinations
• Offers a mix of of on-campus events, dorm socializing, performances, and trips into town or to other consortium schools
• Competes in D3 NESCAC athletics
• Attracts students come from all 50 states and over 50 countries, 85% are from outside of MA
• Does not offer Greek Life
• Fun Traditions including sledding at Midnight of the first snow
• Goal to be carbon neutral by 2030
• New science and student union under construction and scheduled to open in 2026
ADMISSIONS PROCESS
• Applications are read holistically with emphasis on academic performance, writing, and fit with the open curriculum
• School Profiles Students are admitted to the college not by major
• Offers optional alumni interviews
• Demonstrated Interest is not a focus of consideration
FINANCIALS
• Offers need-based aid only; no merit scholarships
• Meets 100% of demonstrated need with no loans in the package
