Swarthmore College is a highly selective liberal arts institution known for its rigorous academics and diverse intellectual community. To provide you with a comprehensive overview of the admissions process for Swarthmore College, here are the key details you need to know:
When to Apply and Early Application:
Swarthmore College operates on a regular decision application deadline for most applicants. The regular decision deadline is typically in early January, with admissions decisions released in late March. However, Swarthmore also offers an Early Decision (ED) program, which is a binding commitment to enroll if admitted. The Early Decision deadline is usually in early November, and decisions are released by mid-December.
Application Requirements:
To apply to Swarthmore College, you will need to submit the following materials:
- Common Application or Coalition Application: Swarthmore accepts both the Common Application and the Coalition Application. You can choose either platform to complete your application.
- Application Fee: A non-refundable $60 application fee is required, but Swarthmore also offers fee waivers for eligible students who demonstrate financial need.
- High School Transcript: Submit an official transcript that includes grades, courses taken, and any honors or awards received.
- Standardized Test Scores: Swarthmore College has adopted a test-optional policy, meaning that submitting SAT or ACT scores is not required. However, if you believe your scores are a strong reflection of your abilities, you can choose to submit them. Accepted applicants that chose to submit SAT and ACT results averaged scores of 1470 and 32-34, respectively.
- Letters of Recommendation: Submit two to three letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities, personal qualities, and potential for success at Swarthmore.
- Personal Statement and Supplemental Essays: Craft a compelling personal statement and respond to the supplemental essay prompts provided by Swarthmore. These essays provide an opportunity to showcase your unique qualities, experiences, and your fit with Swarthmore's values and community.
Tips for Success in the Admissions Process:
- Academic Excellence: Swarthmore College seeks students who have demonstrated strong academic performance. Focus on maintaining a high GPA, challenging yourself with rigorous coursework, and excelling in any standardized tests you choose to submit.
- Demonstrate Intellectual Curiosity: Swarthmore values students who are intellectually curious, passionate about learning, and capable of engaging in rigorous academic discourse. Showcase your intellectual pursuits, research projects, or independent study initiatives to highlight your academic potential.
- Personalize Your Application: Use your personal statement and supplemental essays to showcase your unique experiences, perspectives, and how Swarthmore aligns with your goals. Demonstrate your fit with the college's values, such as a commitment to social responsibility or community engagement.
- Strong Letters of Recommendation: Seek recommendations from teachers or mentors who can speak to your academic abilities, personal qualities, and potential for success at Swarthmore. Choose individuals who can provide specific examples and insights into your strengths.
Visit Swarthmore Virtually or In-person:
To schedule a campus visit to Swarthmore College, go to the Visit Swarthmore section of the college's website. There, you will find information on scheduling guided tours, attending information sessions, and exploring campus facilities. If an in-person visit is not feasible, Swarthmore offers virtual tours and online resources to help you learn more about the college.
During your campus visit, engage with current students, attend classes or information sessions, and explore the campus to get a sense of the academic and social environment. Prepare questions about specific programs, extracurricular activities, or any areas of interest to ensure a productive and informative visit.
