REED COLLEGE, PORTLAND, OR
Reed College fosters a culture of deep inquiry, critical thinking, and independence. With a focus on community and inclusion, this small liberal arts and sciences college chooses not to host greek life or competitive sports. It follows an honor code and a distinctive educational philosophy that emphasizes a strong core curriculum, a high level of student engagement, and a lack of traditional grades. Reed’s 115-acre campus, nestled in a wooded area, provides a close-knit and immersive learning environment, including access to over 20 different biospheres within a two-hour radius. It’s also home to its own student-run nuclear power plant!
QUICK STATS
• Private
• Undergraduate Enrollment: ~1,400 students
• Admit Rate: 27%
• Financial Aid Forms Required: FAFSA and CSS Profile
• Retention Rate: 86%
• Average Class Size: 15
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
• TEST BLIND – will not review even if you send scores
• Do not participate in US News rankings by choice
CURRICULUM
• Strongest majors include Physics, Biochem, and Environmental Studies (⅓ of students major in STEM)
• No traditional letter grades – students receive written evaluations instead
• Every student is required to complete a Senior Thesis – an in-depth research project before graduating
• Most students do not double major, but all are able to explore broadly
• Conference Style Learning in small setting with active participation
• Honor code celebrates an ethos of self-governance and mutual respect
• Highly rigorous and flexible curriculum upon completion of first-year requirements
• Emphasis on research and students may apply for $3k – 5k grants
• Crossover Schools: Amherst, Carleton, Berkeley, Pomona, and Swarthmore
STUDENT BODY
• Reed seeks academically talented students with a passion for learning.
• Reed welcomes nonconformists, those who enjoy discussion-based learning and a willingness to engage in deep intellectual inquiry
• Outside of classes, students enjoy a mix of on-campus events, and outdoor activities including staying and skiing at the 21-room Reed Mountain house at Mt. Hood
• Almost 90% of students are from outside of Oregon representing all 50 states and multiple countries
ADMISSIONS PROCESS
• No direct-admit programs – students declare a major by the end of sophomore year
• Applications read holistically with a strong emphasis on essays and Letters of Recommendation and fit with Reed’s academic culture
• Expect to see a minimum of Pre-Calculus
• Interviews are optional and encouraged
• Demonstrated Interest is important – visits, interviews, and engagement with Reed’s community can help
FINANCIALS
• Only offers need-based aid; no merit scholarships
• Generous financial aid packages available
• Average overall debt upon graduation is $25k-30k
photo courtesy Reed College
