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Amherst College

· Amherst

Amherst College

Private School
Country
Amherst
City
1970
Total Students
Private
Status
About the University

Amherst College overview

Amherst College is a private liberal arts college located in Amherst, Massachusetts, USA. Established in 1821, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious liberal arts institutions in the country. The college is known for its rigorous academic programs, diverse student body, and beautiful campus. Amherst offers a broad range of courses in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The college follows an open curriculum, which means students can design their own academic pathways without any specific course requirements outside of their chosen major. 

Amherst is a small college with an undergraduate enrollment of around 2.000 students. The small size fosters a tight-knit community and allows for small class sizes and personalized attention from professors. Amherst is committed to promoting diversity and inclusiveness on campus. The college has made significant efforts to increase financial aid and create a more socioeconomically diverse student body. Amherst is one of the few institutions that offer need-blind admissions to all students, including international students. This means the college evaluates applicants based on their qualifications without considering their financial situation. 

Additionally, Amherst meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students. The college has over 100 student-run clubs and organizations, including cultural, political, and interest-based groups, as well as opportunities for community service and leadership development. Amherst is a member of the NCAA Division III and the New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC). The college has a strong athletic tradition, with many students participating in varsity, club, and intramural sports. Amherst has produced numerous prominent alumni, including politicians, business leaders, academics, and artists. Some notable names include Calvin Coolidge (30th President of the United States), Henry Ward Beecher (social reformer), and Dan Brown (author of The Da Vinci Code).

About the University

About Amherst College

Amherst College is a private liberal arts college located in Amherst, Massachusetts, USA. Established in 1821, it is one of the oldest and most prestigious liberal arts institutions in the country. The college is known for its rigorous academic programs, diverse student body, and beautiful campus. Amherst offers a broad range of courses in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The college follows an open curriculum, which means students can design their own academic pathways without any specific course requirements outside of their chosen major.

Amherst is a small college with an undergraduate enrollment of around 2.000 students. The small size fosters a tight-knit community and allows for small class sizes and personalized attention from professors. Amherst is committed to promoting diversity and inclusiveness on campus. The college has made significant efforts to increase financial aid and create a more socioeconomically diverse student body. Amherst is one of the few institutions that offer need-blind admissions to all students, including international students. This means the college evaluates applicants based on their qualifications without considering their financial situation.

Additionally, Amherst meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students. The college has over 100 student-run clubs and organizations, including cultural, political, and interest-based groups, as well as opportunities for community service and leadership development. Amherst is a member of the NCAA Division III and the New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC). The college has a strong athletic tradition, with many students participating in varsity, club, and intramural sports. Amherst has produced numerous prominent alumni, including politicians, business leaders, academics, and artists. Some notable names include Calvin Coolidge (30th President of the United States), Henry Ward Beecher (social reformer), and Dan Brown (author of The Da Vinci Code).

City
Amherst
Type
Private
Number of Students
1970
#22
Times Universities
#2
National Ranking
#901
Shanghai List
94%
Placement Rate
12%
Acceptance Rate
Faculties & Programs

Amherst College faculties and programs

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Scholarship Opportunities

Amherst College scholarships and financial aid

Amherst College offers financial aid to international students in the form of need-based scholarships. The college has a need-blind admission policy for international students, which means that a student's financial status is not considered when making an admission decision. If an international student is admitted to Amherst College and demonstrates financial need, the college is committed to meeting 100% of their demonstrated need. To be considered for need-based financial aid, international students must submit the CSS Profile during the application process. This information helps the college to assess the family's financial situation and calculate the amount of financial aid needed. Financial aid packages at Amherst College typically consist of grants and scholarships that do not have to be repaid. They may also include a work-study component, which provides students with an opportunity to work part-time on campus.

Amherst College Exam Requirements

Submitting at least one of the exams below with the required score is a prerequisite for application. The score threshold may vary by program.

ACT
33
Min. score
GRE
315
Min. score
Diploma Note
90
Min. score
SAT
1505
Min. score
GMAT
648
Min. score
IELTS
7.5
Min. score
TOEFL
100
Min. score
University GPA
3.3
Min. score
Application Process

How to get into Amherst College

Prospective international students who wish to apply for undergraduate programs offered by Amherst College must meet the admission requirements outlined below.

  • Completion of 12 Years of Basic Education
  • 4-Year High School Diploma
  • High Grade Point Average
  • Official transcripts of the courses taken by the applicant in 11th and 12th grade
  • Standardized Test Scores (SAT or ACT)
  • Certificate in English Proficiency
    • Certificate in English proficiency received through internationally recognized proficiency tests such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT.
  • Personal Statement & Essay

Please note that although academic qualifications obtained through programs such as GCE A-Level, International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement are not sufficient for direct admission, students within the scope of these programs can request course credits in line with the courses they have taken.

Prospective international students who wish to apply for graduate programs offered by Amherst College must meet the admission requirements outlined below.

  • 4-Year Bachelor's Degree Diploma
  • High Grade Point Average
  • Official transcripts of the courses taken by the applicant during college/university education
  • Work experience may be required for certain programs
  • Certificate in English Proficiency
    • Certificate in English proficiency received through internationally recognized proficiency tests such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT.
  • GRE/GMAT exam score may be required in accordance with the specific admission requirements of certain programs.

Application Deadlines

OCAK2027
Application deadline
OCAK2027
Application deadline

* These dates are subject to change. Get in touch with our Dream Uni advisors to learn the up-to-date deadlines and all the details about the Amherst College application process.

Campus

Take a closer look at Amherst College

Amherst College is located in the town of Amherst, Massachusetts, in the Pioneer Valley region of western Massachusetts. The college's magnificent 1,000-acre campus is highlighted by its stunning architecture, lush landscaping, and picturesque views of the neighborhood. A variety of architectural styles, such as Gothic Revival, Georgian, and modern, are represented by the campus' buildings. Johnson Chapel, College Hall, and Fayerweather Hall are a few of the most venerable and recognizable structures. 

Amherst College is renowned for its immaculate lawns, abundant trees, and open areas that offer students a tranquil and motivating environment. Several gardens, natural paths, and outdoor recreation facilities can be found on the campus. The Amherst College Wildlife Sanctuary, which offers walking routes and opportunities for birdwatching and studying nature, is also located on the campus. The college's main library, named after the well-known American poet Robert Frost who once taught there, is home to a sizable collection of publications including books, periodicals, and digital media. It also serves as a hub for research and academic support services. 

The Mead Art Museum located at Amherst College, is home to an extraordinary collection of more than 19,000 pieces. The museum has collections of Asian, African, and pre-Columbian art in addition to American and European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Amherst College provides contemporary amenities for its sports programs, such as the LeFrak Gymnasium, Pratt Field, Orr Rink, and the college's swimming and diving pool. Additionally, students have access to a range of outdoor activity areas and indoor fitness spaces. All students at Amherst College have access to on-campus housing options, with the majority residing in conventional resident halls. The college offers a range of living options, including flats, theme homes, and dorms. 

Amherst is a pleasant and energetic college town with a wide range of leisure, shopping, and cultural possibilities. Moreover, Amherst College is also a part of the Five College Consortium, which consists of Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, Smith College, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst, and these institutions provide students the opportunity to attend classes, participate in events and activities, enhancing further their college experience.

Campus Life

Campus life at Amherst College is active and engaging, with various chances for students to become engaged, make connections, and grow personally and intellectually. Students may explore their interests, develop leadership abilities, and widen their network with like-minded peers via over 100 student-run clubs and organizations. These clubs cover a wide range of areas, including cultural, political, recreational, community service, and academic interests. Amherst College requires students to live on campus, fostering a strong sense of community among the student body. The college offers a variety of housing options, such as dormitories, theme houses, and apartments. Additionally, first-year students participate in an orientation program designed to help them acclimate to college life and form connections with their classmates. 

Amherst College hosts various social events and activities throughout the year, including guest lectures, concerts, theater productions, art exhibitions, and campus traditions like Fall Festival and Spring Fling. These events provide opportunities for students to connect with their peers and enjoy diverse cultural experiences. The college offers several on-campus dining options, ranging from the main dining hall to cafes and grab-and-go spots. Amherst is also known for its commitment to sustainability, incorporating locally-sourced and organic ingredients in its dining services whenever possible. 

Amherst College has a strong athletic tradition, with many students participating in NCAA Division III sports, club sports, and intramural activities. The college's athletic facilities include the LeFrak Gymnasium, Pratt Field, Orr Rink, and the swimming and diving pool, along with various outdoor recreational spaces and indoor workout areas. Amherst College is a member of the Five College Consortium, which also includes Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, Smith College, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. This membership allows Amherst students to take classes, attend events, and participate in activities at the other member institutions, expanding their academic and social opportunities. 

The town of Amherst offers a lively college-town atmosphere with a variety of cultural, recreational, and shopping opportunities. The Pioneer Valley region, which includes neighboring Northampton and South Hadley, provides additional attractions, including art galleries, museums, music venues, and outdoor recreational opportunities.

Student Profile

Amherst College has produced many notable alumni in various fields. Some of the most well-known and accomplished alumni of Amherst College include:

  • William Smith Clark
  • William H. Webster
  • Uhuru Kenyatta
  • Uchimura Kanzō
  • Thomas Eagleton
  • Talcott Parsons
  • Stephen Collins
  • Stephen Cole Kleene
  • Scott Turow
  • Robert Morgenthau
  • Rob Brown
  • Richard Wilbur
  • Melvil Dewey
  • Matt Besser
  • Larry Miller
  • Ken Howard
  • Julie Powell
  • Joseph Stiglitz
  • Joseph Hardy Neesima
  • John Michael Higgins
  • John M. Deutch
  • John J. McCloy
  • John Bates Clark
  • Jim Steinman
  • Jeffrey Wright
  • James Merrill
  • Henry Ward Beecher
  • Harlan Stone
  • Harlan Coben
  • Hamish Linklater
  • George Papandreou
  • Francisco Flores Pérez
  • Eric T. Schneiderman
  • Drew Pinsky
  • David Suzuki
  • David O. Russell
  • David Foster Wallace
  • David Eisenhower
  • Daniel Goleman
  • Dan Brown
  • Clarence Birdseye
  • Chris Coons
  • Chelsea Cutler
  • Charles R. Drew
  • Carl Woese
  • Calvin Coolidge
  • Burgess Meredith
  • Antonis Samaras
  • Albert II, Prince of Monaco
  • Aatish Taseer
Living

Amherst College cost of living

Sports Facilities

Amherst College sports facilities

Amherst College has a wide variety of sports clubs that cater to different interests and skill levels. Some of the sports clubs at Amherst College are:

  • Ultimate Frisbee Club
  • Rugby Club
  • Equestrian Club
  • Cycling Club
  • Fencing Club
  • Martial Arts Club
  • Skiing and Snowboarding Club
  • Squash Club
  • Tennis Club
  • Running Club
  • Basketball Club
  • Soccer Club
  • Volleyball Club
  • Flag Football Club
  • Softball Club
  • Indoor Soccer Club
  • Dodgeball Club
  • Badminton Club
Achievements

Amherst College awards and achievements

  • 6 Nobel Prize Laureates
  • 20 Rhodes Scholars 
  • 1 Crafoord Prize Winner
  • 5 National Medal of Science Winners
  • 10 Pulitzer Prize Winners
  • 9 MacArthur Fellowship Winners
  • 50 Senators, Representatives and Politicians
  • 37 Diplomats and Government Officials
  • 14 Professional Athletes and Coaches

Amherst College Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Amherst College?
Amherst College is located in the town of Amherst, Massachusetts, United States. The campus of Amherst College is located in the Connecticut River Valley, about 90 miles west of Boston and 165 miles northeast of New York City.
How can I apply to Amherst College?
Before applying, make sure your academic interests line up with the courses and research possibilities available by becoming familiar with the programs offered at Amherst College. Make sure you satisfy the prerequisites for international students' general admission, including English language competence (TOEFL or IELTS scores) and successful completion of secondary education (equivalent to a US high school certificate). You need to create an account on an online application platform. Amherst College accepts applications over Common App. After creating an account on the application platform, you should complete the application form online, including your personal information, academic history, and extracurricular activities. Please note that Amherst College may ask you to answer specific questions, some of which may require you to write essay(s). You will also need evaluations from your teachers in different subjects. Submit your SAT or ACT scores or AP scores. Note that Amherst College may have specific score requirements for different subjects and programs. International applicants must also provide their TOEFL or IELTS scores to demonstrate English proficiency.
What are the programs offered at Amherst College?
Programs offered at Amherst College include but not limited to; American Studies, Anthropology & Sociology, Architectural Studies, Art & the History of Art, Asian Languages & Civilizations, Biochemistry & Biophysics, Biology, Black Studies, Chemistry, Classics, Computer Science, Economics, Education Studies, English, Environmental Studies, European Studies, Film & Media Studies, French, Geology, German, History, Latinx and Latin American Studies, Law, Jurisprudence & Social Thought, Mathematics & Statistics, Music, Neuroscience, Philosophy, Physics & Astronomy, Political Science, Psychology, Religion, Russian, Sexuality, Women’s & Gender Studies, Spanish, Theater & Dance.
What are the standardized test score requirements of Amherst College?
Amherst College is a highly selective liberal arts college and test score requirements vary based on programs. However, average test scores are; SAT: 1370 - 1550, ACT: 32 - 34, and average English language test scores are; IELTS: 7.5, TOEFL iBT: 100.
How can I gain admission to Amherst College?
Amherst College is a highly selective liberal arts college with a rigorous application process. There is no formula for gaining admission to Amherst College. There are, however, certain steps to guide you through the admissions process. We highly recommend you to learn about the programs, values, and requirements of Amherst College before submitting an application. Amherst College has high academic expectations for its students. Excel in your high school or secondary school education, focusing on liberal arts subjects, and English. Amherst College students are held to rigorous academic standards. Concentrate on courses directly or indirectly related to liberal arts and English in high school or secondary school. Even though many colleges and universities in the US adopted a test-blind policy, we still strongly recommend you to sit standardized tests as your test scores may help you to get ahead of your peers during the admissions process. In addition, your academic success, a high grade point average, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT), English proficiency test (IELTS/TOEFL) scores, the rigor of the courses you have taken during high school education or as part of IB or AP programs, extracurricular activities you have participated in, especially in your areas of interest, any awards you have won, letters of recommendation from your teachers and mentors, your essays (Personal Statement/Essay) and finally your success in the interview will make you competitive applicant.

Amherst College Location

Amherst

Amherst College Contact

Email
admission@amherst.edu
Phone
+1 (413) 542-2000
Website
https://www.amherst.edu
Address
Amherst College 220 South Pleasant Street, Amherst, MA 01002, ABD

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How to Get Into Amherst College

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Why Amherst College?

Located in Amherst, , Amherst College is known for its academic excellence, distinguished faculty, and remarkably rich history.
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