Read in full.
Decided by five.
Every application is read start to finish by at least two members of the admissions committee, then discussed together. There is no algorithmic first cut.
Curiosity that shows its work.
Grades and scores tell us whether you're prepared. Essays, recommendations, and — where possible — an interview tell us how you think. We weigh both, and we read slowly enough to notice the difference.
College is test-optional for all applicants. If you submit scores, we consider them; if you don't, nothing in your file is flagged or treated differently.
Five steps,
in order.
Each step opens once the previous one is complete. Most applicants move through all five within six weeks.
Submit the application & essay
Complete the College application and respond to one supplemental prompt, in your own words and roughly 500 of them.
Send transcripts
Ask your school to send an official transcript directly. Test scores are optional and, if sent, are self-reported first.
Two recommendations
One from a teacher in an academic subject, one from anyone who has seen you work — a coach, an employer, a mentor.
Interview (recommended, not required)
Twenty minutes with an alumna or admissions officer, on campus or by video. It's a conversation, not an evaluation.
Decision
Released on the date listed for your plan, with a written note from the committee — not just a form letter.
Mark the calendar.
Early Decision is binding; Regular Decision is not. Most international applicants choose Regular Decision to allow time for financial planning.
Binding. Financial aid estimate included with decision.
Decisions released by email and post.
Non-binding. Open to first-year and transfer applicants.
Submit aid forms by this date for full consideration.
Decisions released; reply-by date follows six weeks later.
We meet full demonstrated need. Every time.
Admission decisions are made without regard to a family's ability to pay, and aid packages are built to close the gap completely — no loans required to attend.
Talk to Financial Aid →Frequently asked.
Can't find what you need here? Admissions answers email directly — no ticketing system.
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