| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Type: Private Liberal Arts College
Founded: 1787
Location: Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA
Motto: Lux et Lex (Light and Law)
Campus Size: 220 acres
Franklin & Marshall is named after Benjamin Franklin, one of the founding fathers of the United States, and John Marshall, the fourth Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.
Franklin & Marshall offers a strong liberal arts curriculum with over 60 majors, minors, and special programs. The college emphasizes small class sizes and close collaboration with faculty.
Popular Majors:
Biology
Psychology
Business, Organizations, and Society
Government
Economics
Public Health
International Studies
Environmental Studies
Computer Science
Interdisciplinary Programs:
Students have the opportunity to design their own majors or pursue interdisciplinary studies.
Research Opportunities:
F&M is highly research-focused, and nearly two-thirds of students engage in independent or faculty-mentored research projects.
The college supports undergraduate research with facilities such as the Hackman Scholars Program, providing funding for summer research.
F&M has a vibrant campus life, with a focus on fostering community engagement, leadership, and personal growth.
Student Organizations:
More than 120 clubs and organizations, including academic societies, cultural groups, arts organizations, and student government.
Popular groups include the Debate Society, International Students Association, and Environmental Action Alliance.
Athletics:
Known as the Diplomats, Franklin & Marshall competes in NCAA Division III sports.
Offers 27 varsity sports teams, along with intramural and club sports.
Greek Life:
Approximately 30% of students participate in fraternities and sororities.
Arts and Culture:
Active arts scene with opportunities in theater, dance, music, and visual arts.
Performances are held at the college's Roschel Performing Arts Center and the nearby Lancaster arts district.
Franklin & Marshall's 220-acre campus is a mix of historic and modern architecture, with state-of-the-art facilities for academics, athletics, and student life.
Key Facilities:
Shadek-Fackenthal Library: The main library offering a vast collection of books and research materials.
Barshinger Life Sciences & Philosophy Building: Houses labs and classrooms for science and philosophy programs.
Student Wellness Center: Provides physical and mental health services.
Writers House: A creative space for writing workshops, poetry readings, and community gatherings.
The campus is pedestrian-friendly and includes green spaces, such as Buchanan Park and an arboretum.
Acceptance Rate: Approximately 30%, making F&M a selective institution.
Test-Optional Policy: SAT/ACT scores are optional, though strong scores can strengthen an application.
Holistic Admissions: The college evaluates academic performance, extracurricular involvement, essays, and letters of recommendation.
Tuition (2024 Estimate): $65,844 per year.
Room and Board: Approximately $15,460 per year.
Other Fees: $1,300–$2,000 (books, supplies, and miscellaneous).
Total Cost: Approximately $83,000 per year.
F&M is committed to making education accessible and offers generous need-based financial aid packages. About 60% of students receive financial assistance, and the college meets 100% of demonstrated financial need.
Franklin & Marshall has a growing population of international students from over 50 countries. Key resources for international students include:
International Student Services Office: Provides assistance with visas, cultural adjustment, and academic support.
Orientation Programs: Special programs to help international students transition to life in the U.S.
Global Engagement Opportunities: Programs like study abroad and internships with international organizations.
Franklin & Marshall is consistently ranked as one of the top liberal arts colleges in the United States.
U.S. News & World Report: Top 50 Liberal Arts Colleges.
Forbes: Ranked as one of America's Top Colleges.
The Princeton Review: Included in "Colleges That Create Futures."
Washington Monthly: Recognized for social mobility and community service.
F&M is particularly known for its strong programs in science, government, and business-related fields.
F&M has a large and influential alumni network, with graduates excelling in diverse fields such as law, medicine, business, government, and the arts.
Top Graduate Schools Attended: Alumni often pursue advanced degrees at top institutions like Harvard, Yale, and Stanford.
Employment Rate: Approximately 97% of graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school within six months of graduation.
Top Employers: Graduates have secured jobs at companies and organizations such as Google, Goldman Sachs, the U.S. State Department, and Johnson & Johnson.
The Office of Student and Post-Graduate Development (OSPGD) supports students with career advising, internships, and professional development.
City Overview:
Franklin & Marshall is located in Lancaster, a small city known for its historic charm, arts community, and cultural diversity.
Lancaster is part of the larger Pennsylvania Dutch Country, famous for its Amish population and picturesque landscapes.
Proximity to Major Cities:
Lancaster is conveniently located about:
1.5 hours from Philadelphia.
2.5 hours from Washington, D.C.
3 hours from New York City.
Rigorous Academics: Small class sizes, strong faculty engagement, and research opportunities.
Global Focus: A commitment to preparing students for leadership in a globalized world.
Close-Knit Community: Supportive environment with a diverse student body.
Strong Career Outcomes: Alumni success in top industries and graduate schools.
1. Academic Divisions and Areas of Study
Franklin & Marshall College organizes its courses into three main academic divisions:
Natural Sciences
Social Sciences
Humanities
Additionally, there are interdisciplinary programs that combine courses from multiple disciplines.
2. Popular Majors and Minors
Natural Sciences
Biology
Chemistry
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Physics
Computer Science
Environmental Science
Earth and Environment
Mathematics
Neuroscience
Public Health (Science-focused track)
Social Sciences
Business, Organizations, and Society
Economics
Government (Political Science)
Psychology
Sociology
Anthropology
Public Health (Social science-focused track)
Humanities
English (Literature, Creative Writing)
History
Philosophy
Religious Studies
Classical Archaeology and Ancient History
Languages (French, German, Spanish, Italian, Latin, and more)
Theatre, Dance, and Performance
Art History
Interdisciplinary Programs
International Studies
American Studies
Africana Studies
Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Environmental Studies
Scientific and Philosophical Studies of the Mind
Science, Technology, and Society
Self-Designed Majors
Students at F&M have the unique opportunity to design their own major by combining courses from multiple disciplines, in consultation with faculty advisors.
3. Special Academic Programs
Franklin & Marshall encourages students to enhance their learning experience through unique programs:
Pre-Professional Programs
Pre-Medical Studies: A rigorous program to prepare students for medical school.
Pre-Law Studies: Courses in political science, philosophy, and economics tailored for law school preparation.
Pre-Business Studies: Focused on leadership, economics, and finance for students pursuing careers in business.
3+2 Engineering Program
F&M offers a dual-degree program in partnership with Columbia University and Case Western Reserve University:
Students study for 3 years at F&M in a science or mathematics major.
They transfer to a partner university for 2 years to complete an engineering degree.
Study Abroad Programs
Students can participate in study-abroad opportunities across 60+ countries, including specialized programs in:
Environmental studies in the Galapagos Islands.
Business and finance in London.
Political science in Washington, D.C. (Domestic study-away program).
Joint/Collaborative Programs
F&M partners with institutions like the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine for accelerated admission to graduate professional programs.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Biology |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Chemistry |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Environmental Science |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Earth and Environment |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Physics |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Mathematics |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Computer Science |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Neuroscience |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Public Health (Science Focus) |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Economics |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Business, Organizations, and Society |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Government (Political Science) |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Psychology |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Sociology |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Anthropology |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Public Health (Social Science Focus) |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
History |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Philosophy |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Religious Studies |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
English (Literature or Creative Writing) |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Theatre, Dance, and Performance |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Art History |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
International Studies |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Africana Studies |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
American Studies |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Environmental Studies |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Scientific and Philosophical Studies of the Mind |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Science, Technology, and Society |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Languages (French, German, Spanish, Italian, Latin, etc.) |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
|
Classical Archaeology and Ancient History |
4 Years |
$65,844 |
Academic Excellence:
F&M is consistently ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the U.S., offering over 60 majors, minors, and interdisciplinary programs.
Global Community:
Students from over 50 countries form an integral part of the campus, creating a diverse and inclusive environment.
Dedicated Support for International Students:
F&M provides extensive resources to help international students adjust to campus life, including visa assistance, cultural programs, and academic advising.
Financial Aid for International Students:
F&M is need-aware for international applicants but meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, ensuring affordability for qualified students.
International students are eligible to pursue all of F&M's undergraduate programs, with popular fields of study including:
Business, Organizations, and Society
Biology
Economics
Computer Science
Government (Political Science)
Public Health
F&M also emphasizes interdisciplinary studies and offers the opportunity for students to design their own majors in collaboration with faculty.
Franklin & Marshall College offers undergraduate admissions through three main options: Early Decision I, Early Decision II, and Regular Decision. The process is the same for both domestic and international applicants, with additional requirements for international students.
Application Form:
Submit your application through either of the following platforms:
N/A
Official High School Transcripts:
Submit an official copy of your high school transcripts.
Transcripts must be translated into English (if applicable).
Standardized Test Scores (Optional):
F&M has a test-optional policy for SAT/ACT. Applicants can choose whether to submit these scores.
International students are still required to demonstrate English proficiency (details below).
Letters of Recommendation:
Two Teacher Recommendations (from teachers in core academic subjects).
One Counselor Recommendation from your high school guidance counselor or advisor.
Personal Essay:
A well-written essay is required as part of the Common or Coalition Application. This is an opportunity to share your story, values, and aspirations.
Supplemental Materials (Optional):
Students can submit portfolios, art samples, or additional materials showcasing special talents.
English Language Proficiency (Required):
International students must demonstrate proficiency in English by submitting one of the following scores:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100.
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
Duolingo English Test (DET): Minimum score of 120.
SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing (if submitted): Strong scores recommended.
Certification of Finances:
All international applicants must submit a Certification of Finances form to demonstrate the ability to pay for tuition, fees, and living expenses.
Applicants applying for financial aid must submit the CSS Profile or the International Student Financial Aid Application (ISFAA).
Visa Process:
After admission, international students will receive an I-20 form from F&M to apply for an F-1 student visa.
Application Type |
Deadline |
Decision Notification |
|---|---|---|
|
Early Decision I |
November 15 |
Mid-December |
|
Early Decision II |
January 15 |
February |
|
Regular Decision |
January 15 |
April 1 |
Application Fee: $65 (non-refundable).
Fee waivers are available for eligible students.
Step 1: Submit Application:
Complete and submit the Common or Coalition Application before the deadline (Early Decision or Regular Decision).
Step 2: Submit Supporting Documents:
Upload or send official transcripts, recommendation letters, and test scores (if applicable).
Step 3: English Proficiency (International Students):
Submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores unless you qualify for an exemption.
Step 4: Financial Aid Application:
Domestic students must complete the FAFSA and the CSS Profile for need-based aid.
International students must complete the CSS Profile or the International Student Financial Aid Application (ISFAA).
Step 5: Interview (Optional):
An interview is recommended but not required. International students can request a virtual interview with an admissions officer.
Interviews help provide more context about your background and interests.
Step 6: Decision Notification:
Early Decision applicants receive decisions by December (ED I) or February (ED II).
Regular Decision applicants are notified by April 1.
Step 7: Confirm Enrollment:
Admitted students must submit their enrollment deposit by May 1 (Regular Decision) or within a few weeks for Early Decision.
Franklin & Marshall College is need-aware for international applicants, meaning financial need is considered during the admission process. However, F&M meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students, including international students.
CSS Profile or ISFAA: Required for international students applying for need-based aid.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Limited merit scholarships may be awarded to outstanding international students based on academic achievement.
F&M allows students to decide whether to submit SAT/ACT scores.
The policy applies to both domestic and international students, except that international students must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo if English is not their first language.
Franklin & Marshall takes a holistic approach to admissions. In addition to academic achievements, the college considers:
Leadership roles in school and community.
Artistic, athletic, or extracurricular accomplishments.
Commitment to service and global engagement.
Franklin & Marshall College offers undergraduate admissions through the following intake schedules:
Application Type |
Application Deadline |
Decision Notification |
|---|---|---|
|
Early Decision I |
November 15 |
Mid-December |
|
Early Decision II |
January 15 |
February |
|
Regular Decision |
January 15 |
April 1 |
Early Decision (Binding):
Students applying through Early Decision I or II must commit to attending F&M if admitted.
Best suited for students who are confident that F&M is their top choice.
Decisions are released earlier compared to Regular Decision.
Regular Decision (Non-Binding):
Most students apply through Regular Decision, which allows them to compare admission offers and financial aid packages from multiple institutions.
Fall Semester Enrollment Only:
Franklin & Marshall admits students for the Fall Semester only, meaning new students typically begin classes in late August.
Domestic applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria for undergraduate programs:
High School Diploma:
Applicants must have completed a high school diploma (or equivalent) with strong academic performance.
Rigorous Coursework:
Successful applicants often demonstrate a challenging high school curriculum, including honors, Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or dual-enrollment courses.
Test-Optional Policy (Optional SAT/ACT Scores):
Applicants can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores.
For those submitting, competitive scores are generally:
SAT: 1350–1500 (middle 50%).
ACT: 30–33 (middle 50%).
Letters of Recommendation:
Two teacher recommendations and one counselor recommendation are required.
Personal Essay:
Applicants must submit an essay as part of the Common or Coalition Application.
Extracurricular Activities:
Leadership roles, volunteer work, and involvement in arts, athletics, or clubs are highly valued.
International applicants must meet the same academic requirements as domestic applicants, with additional documentation required to demonstrate English proficiency and financial capability.
High School Diploma (or Equivalent):
Equivalent credentials from recognized educational systems worldwide are accepted.
English Proficiency:
If English is not your first language, you must submit one of the following test scores:
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 100.
IELTS: Minimum score of 7.0.
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 120.
Alternatively, SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing scores may be used if submitted.
Financial Documentation:
International students must submit a Certification of Finances form and supporting bank statements or financial documents.
For financial aid applicants, the CSS Profile or International Student Financial Aid Application (ISFAA) is required.
Letters of Recommendation:
Two teacher recommendations and one counselor recommendation are required.
Optional Test Scores:
Submission of SAT/ACT scores is optional but may strengthen your application.
Personal Essay and Application Form:
As part of the Common or Coalition Application, international applicants must submit a personal essay that highlights their background, aspirations, and why they wish to study at Franklin & Marshall.
Franklin & Marshall uses a holistic review process, considering the following:
GPA:
While F&M does not have a specific GPA cutoff, admitted students generally have a GPA of 3.6–4.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
Challenging Curriculum:
Taking challenging courses like AP, IB, or honors classes is viewed positively.
Extracurricular Activities:
Active involvement in school, community, or personal projects (e.g., sports, arts, leadership roles, volunteer work) is considered an essential component of the application.
Diversity and Unique Attributes:
F&M values students who bring unique perspectives, talents, or experiences that contribute to the college’s diverse and vibrant community.
Ranking Organization |
Category |
Ranking/Rating |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not Ranked (Focuses on global universities) |
N/A |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
National Liberal Arts Colleges |
Top 50 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Best Value Schools |
Top 40 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Top Performers on Social Mobility |
Top 25 |
|
Forbes |
America’s Top Colleges |
Top 100 Liberal Arts Colleges |
|
The Princeton Review |
Best 388 Colleges |
Included |
|
Washington Monthly |
Liberal Arts Colleges (Overall) |
Top 50 |
|
Niche |
Best Colleges for Liberal Arts in the U.S. |
A- Rating |
|
College Factual |
Top Colleges for Political Science |
Top 10% Nationwide |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (Per Year) |
Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Need-Based Financial Aid |
Based on demonstrated financial need through FAFSA, CSS Profile, or ISFAA (for international students). |
(Up to Full Tuition, Room & Board) |
F&M meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, including international students. |
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
Exceptional academic achievement or leadership potential (awarded rarely). |
$5,000–$10,000 (limited availability) |
Limited merit scholarships offered, but most funding is need-based. |
|
International Student Financial Aid |
International students with demonstrated financial need. |
(Up to Full Tuition) |
Requires submission of the CSS Profile or the ISFAA. |
|
Benjamin Franklin Grant |
High-achieving, low-income students. |
(based on need) |
Part of F&M’s commitment to increasing access for underrepresented students. |
|
Federal and State Grants |
U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens who qualify for federal aid programs. |
N/A |
Includes Pell Grants, SEOG, and state grants (requires FAFSA submission). |
|
Military/Veterans Benefits |
Veterans, active-duty military personnel, or their dependents. |
(depending on benefits) |
Eligible students can combine VA benefits with F&M financial aid. |
|
Outside Scholarships |
Scholarships from external organizations or foundations. |
N/A |
Students are encouraged to apply for external scholarships, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. |
Accommodation Type |
Description |
Cost Per Year (USD) |
Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Traditional Residence Halls |
Shared or single rooms with communal bathrooms. |
$9,600 – $10,000 |
Study lounges, Wi-Fi, communal spaces, laundry facilities. |
|
Suite-Style Housing |
Private or shared bedrooms with shared bathrooms. |
$10,400 – $11,200 |
Semi-private bathrooms, shared common areas, Wi-Fi, kitchens in some suites. |
|
Apartment-Style Housing |
Apartments for upperclassmen with private rooms. |
$12,000 – $12,800 |
Private bedrooms, full kitchen, living area, access to laundry facilities. |
|
Theme Housing (Special Interest) |
Themed living communities for students with shared interests. |
$9,600 – $11,200 |
Focused on shared academic or cultural interests; located in specific residence halls. |
|
Off-Campus Housing (Optional) |
Apartments or rental housing near campus. |
$8,000 – $15,000 (varies) |
Costs depend on location and amenities; independent from the college. |
Category |
Estimated Cost Per Year (USD) |
Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Meal Plans (Required for Residents) |
$6,280 – $7,070 |
Multiple options available, including unlimited or block plans. All meal plans cover dining at the Ben Franklin Dining Hall. |
|
Laundry Services |
Included in Housing Fee |
Free laundry facilities in all residence halls. |
|
Security Deposit (One-Time) |
$200 – $300 |
Refundable upon move-out, provided no damages occur. |
F&M organizes its housing system into five residential colleges, creating a unique sense of community for students. Each college includes housing, dining facilities, and programming that promotes leadership, social engagement, and academic growth.
Residential College |
Who Can Live Here? |
Key Features |
|---|---|---|
|
Bonchek College House |
First-year students and upperclassmen |
Communal dining spaces, study rooms, leadership programs. |
|
Brooks College House |
First-year students and upperclassmen |
Close to academic buildings, strong focus on community events. |
|
Ware College House |
First-year students and upperclassmen |
Modern amenities, kitchen access, and social lounges. |
|
New College House |
First-year students and upperclassmen |
Energy-efficient building, eco-friendly living spaces. |
|
Weis College House |
First-year students and upperclassmen |
Centrally located, strong focus on arts and culture. |
F&M provides various dining options to cater to students' dietary preferences and needs:
Facility Name |
Type |
Details |
|---|---|---|
|
Ben Franklin Dining Hall |
Main dining facility |
Buffet-style meals, including vegan, vegetarian, and allergen-free options. |
|
Dining Café 1787 |
Casual dining |
Offers snacks, coffee, and grab-and-go meals. |
|
Zime Café |
Coffee shop |
Light meals, sandwiches, and beverages. |
1. Residential Life
F&M organizes its housing system into five residential colleges, which create smaller, close-knit communities within the campus. Each residential college fosters a sense of belonging, academic collaboration, and leadership development. First-year students are automatically assigned to a college house, which serves as their home and hub for activities.
Each residential house provides unique programming, social events, and leadership opportunities. The houses also host weekly dinners and discussions with faculty and visiting speakers.
2. Clubs and Organizations
F&M has over 100 student-run clubs and organizations that cater to a wide range of interests, including academics, arts, sports, social causes, and more. Some examples include:
Academic Clubs: Biology Society, International Studies Organization, and Economics Club.
Cultural and Diversity Groups: African Caribbean Students Association, Asian Cultural Society, and Mi Gente Latina.
Arts and Media Organizations: College Reporter (student newspaper), WFNM (radio station), and student theater groups.
Service-Oriented Groups: Habitat for Humanity and various volunteering clubs.
Leadership Opportunities: Student Government, Class Councils, and peer mentoring programs.
If a student has an interest that isn't represented, they can start their own club or organization.
3. Athletics and Recreation
F&M is part of the NCAA Division III Centennial Conference, and its athletic teams, known as the Diplomats, are highly active. The college offers 27 varsity sports teams for men and women, including soccer, basketball, swimming, and lacrosse. In addition to varsity sports, students can participate in:
Club Sports: Rugby, ice hockey, and ultimate frisbee.
Intramural Sports: Casual competitions in soccer, basketball, and volleyball.
Fitness and Wellness: The Alumni Sports & Fitness Center offers a gym, fitness classes, and wellness programs such as yoga and Pilates.
Athletics play a central role in campus life, fostering teamwork and school spirit.
4. Arts and Culture
F&M has a thriving arts scene that encourages creativity and self-expression. Students can get involved in:
Theater and Performance: The Green Room Theatre offers opportunities for acting, directing, and stage production.
Music: Students can join various ensembles, including orchestra, jazz band, a cappella groups, and choirs.
Visual Arts: The Phillips Museum of Art, located on campus, showcases student and professional exhibits. Students can also take part in art workshops and exhibitions.
Cultural events such as performances, poetry readings, film screenings, and lectures are held regularly on campus.
5. Campus Events and Traditions
Franklin & Marshall celebrates numerous events and traditions that enhance the student experience and build a sense of community. Some notable examples include:
Ben’s Bash: A campus-wide celebration of Benjamin Franklin’s birthday.
Fall Fest: A weekend of games, food, and live music to welcome the fall season.
Diplomat Day: A spirit day dedicated to celebrating F&M pride.
Convocation and Graduation Ceremonies: These events mark important academic milestones and bring the campus community together.
6. Diversity and Inclusion
F&M is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse campus environment. Students from over 50 countries contribute to the multicultural fabric of the college. Resources for promoting diversity include:
Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Supports underrepresented students and organizes cultural programming.
International Student Services: Provides support for international students, including immigration advice, cultural adjustment workshops, and social events.
Cultural Celebrations: Events such as International Education Week, Black History Month, and Diwali celebrations highlight the diversity on campus.
7. Academic and Career Support
F&M ensures that students have access to resources for both academic success and career development. Key resources include:
Office of Student and Post-Graduate Development (OSPGD): Offers career counseling, resume workshops, internship placements, and graduate school advising.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Students can study in over 60 countries through F&M’s study-abroad programs, gaining valuable international experience.
Peer Tutoring: Academic resource centers provide one-on-one tutoring, writing workshops, and study support.
8. Volunteerism and Community Engagement
F&M encourages students to engage with the Lancaster community through service projects and internships. Opportunities include:
Working with local nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity or environmental organizations.
Participating in initiatives to promote education, public health, and sustainability.
The Ware Institute for Civic Engagement helps students connect with community service opportunities and foster leadership through civic responsibility.
9. Dining and Social Spaces
Dining at F&M offers a variety of options, with meal plans available to all students. Key dining facilities include:
Ben Franklin Dining Hall: Buffet-style meals with options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with dietary restrictions.
Café 1787: A casual spot for coffee and light meals.
Zime Café: A coffee shop offering sandwiches, pastries, and beverages.
Students can also socialize in shared spaces like study lounges, campus quads, and the Student Center.
10. Support Services
F&M provides a range of support services to ensure students feel safe, healthy, and empowered:
Health and Wellness Center: Offers medical care, mental health counseling, and wellness programs.
Campus Safety: 24/7 campus security ensures a safe living and learning environment.
Accessibility Services: Accommodations for students with disabilities, including academic and housing support.
11. Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Located in the historic city of Lancaster, F&M students have access to a vibrant local community. Lancaster offers:
Restaurants, cafes, and shopping areas in a bustling downtown.
Cultural attractions such as theaters, galleries, and music venues.
Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring nearby Amish country.
The city’s proximity to Philadelphia, New York City, and Washington, D.C., allows students to enjoy weekend trips and access internships in major metropolitan areas.
12. International Student Life
For international students, F&M provides a warm and welcoming environment with resources such as:
Pre-Orientation Programs: Tailored for international students to help them transition to life at F&M.
Cultural Exchange Events: Opportunities to share and celebrate traditions from around the world.
International Mentors: Peer mentors who guide international students in their first year.
1. Placement Success and Career Outcomes
Employment Rate: Approximately 97% of graduates are employed, in graduate school, or pursuing service opportunities (e.g., Teach for America) within six months of graduation.
Graduate School Enrollment: Many F&M students pursue advanced degrees in fields like law, medicine, business, and the sciences. Graduates are admitted to top institutions such as Harvard, Yale, Columbia, and Stanford.
Internship Participation: Around 75% of students complete at least one internship during their time at F&M, often leading to full-time job offers.
2. Popular Career Fields for F&M Graduates
Franklin & Marshall graduates excel in a wide variety of industries. Popular career fields include:
Business & Finance: Many graduates work in consulting, investment banking, and management roles at firms like Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, and Deloitte.
Healthcare & Biomedical Sciences: Alumni find opportunities in research, healthcare administration, and public health organizations, including at National Institutes of Health (NIH) and biotech companies like Thermo Fisher Scientific.
Government & Public Service: Students often secure positions in government agencies, nonprofits, and policy organizations, including roles at the U.S. State Department and United Nations.
Education: F&M alumni are frequently employed as teachers, counselors, and administrators or pursue graduate studies in education at top universities.
Technology & Data Science: Graduates in computer science and data analytics find roles at tech companies like Google, Amazon, and IBM.
Law & Public Policy: Political science and government majors pursue law school or work in roles focused on policy analysis and advocacy.
3. Career Support Services
The Office of Student and Post-Graduate Development (OSPGD) plays a key role in helping students transition from college to their professional careers. Services provided include:
Personalized Career Counseling: Individual guidance on choosing a career path, applying to jobs, and developing professional skills.
Resume and Cover Letter Assistance: Help crafting tailored resumes and cover letters for job and internship applications.
Mock Interviews: Practice sessions with career advisors or alumni to prepare students for real interviews.
Career Workshops and Seminars: Sessions on networking, professional etiquette, and using platforms like LinkedIn.
Handshake Platform: A dedicated career portal that connects students with job and internship opportunities.
4. Internships and Experiential Learning
F&M emphasizes hands-on learning, with many students participating in internships and research opportunities.
Internships:
Students intern at leading organizations in industries such as business, healthcare, education, and technology.
Partnerships with companies in nearby cities like Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and New York City provide valuable networking and work experiences.
Example companies and organizations offering internships to F&M students:
Goldman Sachs (Finance and Consulting)
National Institutes of Health (NIH) (Biomedical Research)
Teach for America (Education)
Accenture (Consulting)
Johnson & Johnson (Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals)
Research Opportunities:
Hackman Scholars Program: A summer research program where students work closely with faculty on paid research projects. This is particularly popular among students in the sciences.
Independent Studies: Many students collaborate with faculty to conduct original research, often leading to publications or conference presentations.
5. Graduate School Support
F&M graduates have a strong record of pursuing advanced degrees in medicine, law, business, and other fields. Resources include:
Pre-Professional Advising Programs:
Pre-Medical Program: Advising and support for students pursuing careers in medicine, with strong placements in top medical schools.
Pre-Law Program: Guidance for students applying to law schools.
Pre-Business Studies: Support for students planning to pursue MBA or finance-related graduate programs.
Graduate School Application Support: Assistance with personal statements, applications, and letters of recommendation.
Top Graduate Schools Attended by F&M Alumni:
Harvard University
Stanford University
Yale University
Columbia University
University of Pennsylvania
Johns Hopkins University
Georgetown University
6. Alumni Network and Networking Opportunities
The F&M alumni network is a valuable resource for current students. Alumni actively participate in:
Career Panels: Alumni share insights into their industries and offer advice on career paths.
Networking Events: Opportunities for students to connect with F&M graduates working in their areas of interest.
Internship and Job Referrals: Alumni frequently help students secure internships or job placements within their companies.
7. International Student Placements
F&M provides specific support for international students seeking employment in the U.S. or abroad:
Curricular Practical Training (CPT): Opportunities to work during studies as part of an internship or research experience.
Optional Practical Training (OPT): Support for international students applying for post-graduation work authorization in the U.S.
STEM Extension: International students in STEM fields (e.g., computer science, biology) are eligible for extended OPT periods.
8. Employment Highlights
F&M graduates are employed by some of the world’s leading companies, nonprofits, and government organizations. Recent employers include:
Business & Finance: Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan Chase, Deloitte, Ernst & Young (EY), Vanguard.
Technology: Google, Amazon, IBM, Microsoft.
Healthcare & Sciences: National Institutes of Health (NIH), Thermo Fisher Scientific, Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Law & Government: U.S. Department of State, United Nations, and top law firms.
9. Key Statistics
Employment/Graduate School Rate (6 Months Post-Graduation): 97%.
Internship Participation Rate: Approximately 75%.
Top Career Fields: Business, healthcare, government, technology, law, and education.
Graduate School Placement Rate: High placement in prestigious U.S. and international universities.
Selective Admissions:
F&M’s acceptance rate demonstrates its selective nature, as the college attracts highly qualified applicants from around the world.
Early Decision Acceptance Rate:
The acceptance rate for Early Decision applicants is typically higher than Regular Decision due to the binding nature of the application and demonstrated commitment to attending F&M.
Early Decision is ideal for students who are confident that F&M is their top choice.
Holistic Review Process:
F&M takes a holistic approach to admissions, considering not only academic performance but also extracurricular involvement, leadership potential, recommendations, essays, and personal qualities.
Test-Optional Policy:
F&M has a test-optional policy for SAT/ACT scores, allowing students to decide whether to include standardized test results in their application. This provides more flexibility for applicants.
Academic Performance:
Admitted students typically have strong GPAs (average 3.6–4.0 on a 4.0 scale) and challenging high school coursework, including AP, IB, or honors classes.
Extracurricular Involvement:
Leadership roles, community service, artistic achievements, and athletics are valued.
Essays and Recommendations:
Personal essays and teacher/counselor recommendations play an important role in showcasing the applicant’s character, goals, and fit for the college.
Diversity and Global Engagement:
F&M values a diverse student body and seeks students from a variety of backgrounds, including international applicants.
Franklin & Marshall College
637 College Avenue
Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17603
USA
