| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Location: Poughkeepsie, New York, USA
Type: Private liberal arts college
Founded: 1861
Campus Size: Approximately 1,000 acres
Student Body: Around 2,400 undergraduates
Mascot: The Brewers
Coeducational: Originally founded as a women’s college, Vassar became coeducational in 1969.
Academics: Known for a strong emphasis on the liberal arts and flexible curriculum. Students are encouraged to explore a wide range of subjects.
Student-Faculty Ratio: About 8:1, allowing for small class sizes and close mentorship.
Majors: Offers over 50 majors, including popular programs in:
Psychology
Political Science
Economics
English
Biology
Film Studies
Environmental Studies
Open Curriculum: Vassar has no core curriculum, meaning students have more freedom to design their academic path.
Campus Life: Vassar has a vibrant campus life with a strong emphasis on the arts, creativity, and student activism.
Diversity: Vassar has made efforts to increase diversity and inclusion. About 45% of students are students of color.
Clubs & Organizations: 100+ student-run clubs, including theater troupes, a cappella groups, political organizations, and cultural clubs.
Housing: Most students live on campus in one of several historic dormitories or student apartments.
Need-blind for U.S. students and meets 100% of demonstrated financial need.
Offers financial aid to international students as well, though it is need-aware for international applicants.
Meryl Streep – Academy Award-winning actress
Lisa Kudrow – Actress from Friends
Elizabeth Bishop – Pulitzer Prize-winning poet
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis – Former First Lady (attended, did not graduate)
Anthony Bourdain – Celebrity chef and author
Art History
Drama
English
Film
French and Francophone Studies
German Studies
Greek and Roman Studies (Classics)
Italian
Japanese
Latin American and Latinx Studies
Music
Philosophy
Religion
Russian Studies
Spanish
Studio Art
Women, Feminist, and Queer Studies
Astronomy
Biology
Chemistry
Cognitive Science
Computer Science
Earth Science
Mathematics
Neuroscience and Behavior
Physics
Psychological Science
Anthropology
Economics
Education
Geography
History
Political Science
Sociology
Urban Studies
Africana Studies
American Studies
Asian Studies
Environmental Studies
International Studies
Media Studies
Medieval and Renaissance Studies
Science, Technology, and Society (STS)
Cognitive Science – Vassar is one of the first colleges to offer this as an undergraduate major.
Independent Program – Students can design their own major with faculty guidance.
Dual-Degree Programs – Vassar offers partnerships for 3-2 engineering programs with Dartmouth, Columbia, and other institutions.
Open Curriculum – No required core courses; students work with advisors to create a personalized course of study.
First-Year Writing Seminars – All first-year students take a writing-intensive seminar.
Study Abroad – Extensive international study programs through Vassar and global partners.
Program (Major) |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Art History |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Studio Art |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Drama |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Film |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Music |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
English |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Philosophy |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Religion |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
History |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Economics |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Psychology (Psychological Science) |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Cognitive Science |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Neuroscience and Behavior |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Biology |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Physics |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Mathematics |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Astronomy |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Earth Science |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Anthropology |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Geography |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Education |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Urban Studies |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Environmental Studies |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
International Studies |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
American Studies |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Africana Studies |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Women, Feminist, and Queer Studies |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Asian Studies |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Latin American and Latinx Studies |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Media Studies |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Science, Technology, and Society (STS) |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Classical Studies (Greek & Roman) |
4 years |
$69,140 |
|
Foreign Languages (e.g., French, Spanish, German, Italian, Russian, Japanese, Chinese) |
4 years |
$69,140 |
Poughkeepsie, New York (about 2 hours north of New York City)
Private, liberal arts college
Only undergraduate programs (Bachelor of Arts - BA)
Offers 50+ majors across arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences
Open curriculum – no core/general education requirements
Flexible double majors and interdisciplinary studies
Strong programs in:
Psychology
Economics
Computer Science
Film
Political Science
Environmental Studies
Small class sizes, 8:1 student-faculty ratio
International students make up around 8–10% of the student body
Students come from over 50 countries
Active international student organizations and cultural groups
You can apply through any of these platforms:
Common Application
Coalition Application
QuestBridge (for eligible students from low-income backgrounds)
There’s no preference between platforms — choose the one most convenient for you.
Admission Type |
Deadline |
Decision Notification |
|---|---|---|
|
Early Decision I |
November 15 |
Mid-December |
|
Early Decision II |
January 1 |
Early February |
|
Regular Decision |
January 1 |
Late March/Early April |
|
QuestBridge (Finalists) |
November |
December |
Early Decision is binding; Regular Decision is non-binding.
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Completed Application |
Common App, Coalition App, or QuestBridge |
|
School Report & Transcripts |
Official academic records from secondary school |
|
Teacher Recommendations |
2 required (usually from academic subjects) |
|
Counselor Recommendation |
1 required |
|
Personal Essay |
Via Common App or Coalition App |
|
Standardized Tests (SAT/ACT) |
Optional (Test-Optional Policy) |
|
English Proficiency Test |
Required for non-native English speakers (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo) |
|
Mid-Year Report |
Required for Regular and ED II applicants |
|
Art/Music Supplement (Optional) |
Portfolio if applying for arts-related programs |
English proficiency test is mandatory unless your education has been in English
Need-aware for international students (financial need is considered in admissions)
Must submit the CSS Profile to apply for financial aid
Vassar College has one main intake per year:
Intake Term |
Start Date |
Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
|
Fall Semester |
Late August / Early September |
January 1 (Regular Decision) |
Vassar does not offer Spring intake or mid-year entry for new students.
Requirement |
Details |
|---|---|
|
High School Diploma |
Must complete secondary education equivalent to U.S. high school |
|
Strong Academic Record |
High GPA, typically in the top 10–15% of graduating class |
|
Challenging Coursework |
Advanced Placement (AP), IB, A-levels, or honors courses recommended |
|
Letters of Recommendation |
Two teacher recs + one school counselor recommendation |
Test |
Required? |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
SAT/ACT |
Optional |
Vassar is test-optional (you can submit if you feel it strengthens your application) |
|
TOEFL / IELTS / Duolingo |
Yes (for international students) |
Required if your primary language is not English or if your education was not in English |
Ranking Organization |
Ranking/Rating |
|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not ranked globally (focuses on research universities) |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Top 15 in National Liberal Arts Colleges |
|
Forbes (America’s Top Colleges) |
Top 30 overall; Top 10 among liberal arts colleges |
|
Niche (Best Colleges in America) |
A+ Grade; Top 10 for Liberal Arts Colleges |
|
Princeton Review |
Ranked highly for "Best Classroom Experience" and "Professors Get High Marks" |
|
Times Higher Education (THE) |
Not individually ranked (focuses on research universities) |
Scholarship / Aid Type |
Eligibility |
Amount / Coverage |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Need-Based Financial Aid |
U.S. & International Students |
Up to 100% of demonstrated need |
Vassar meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students |
|
Vassar Grant |
Based on financial need |
(can be full tuition, room & board) |
Institutional aid; does not require repayment |
|
Work-Study Program |
U.S. Students (and some internationals) |
Up to $2,200–$3,000/year (part-time work) |
Campus jobs to help offset personal expenses |
|
Federal Pell Grant |
U.S. Citizens (low-income families) |
Up to $7,395/year (based on FAFSA) |
Provided by U.S. government |
|
Federal SEOG Grant |
U.S. Citizens with exceptional need |
Up to $4,000/year |
Supplemental federal aid |
|
Outside Scholarships |
All students |
N/A |
Students can apply independently; reduces expected family contribution |
|
International Student Aid |
International students |
based on need |
Need-aware in admissions; still meets full need if admitted |
Facility / Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Campus Size |
~1,000 acres (beautiful, park-like setting with gardens, trails, and art) |
|
Student Housing Guarantee |
Housing guaranteed for all 4 years |
|
Residential Houses |
9 traditional dorms (e.g., Main, Cushing, Davison, Josselyn, Lathrop, etc.) |
|
Apartment-Style Housing |
Available for juniors & seniors (Town Houses, Terrace Apartments) |
|
Room Types |
Singles, Doubles, Suites, Apartment-style |
|
Room Features |
Fully furnished, high-speed internet, shared bathrooms, study lounges |
|
Meal Plans |
Required for students living in dorms; various plans available |
|
Dining Halls |
The All Campus Dining Center (ACDC), plus cafes and late-night spots |
|
Laundry |
Free laundry machines in all dorms |
|
Security & Support |
24/7 campus safety, residential life staff in each building |
|
Move-in Support |
Orientation and peer mentors for first-years, including international students |
Vassar has a rich artistic tradition. Whether you're into theater, music, dance, or visual arts, you'll find endless opportunities to perform, create, and collaborate. The campus has its own art museum, student-run theater groups, and frequent open mic nights, concerts, and exhibitions. Creative expression is a huge part of the culture.
The college places a strong emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Students come from all over the U.S. and more than 50 countries. There are many cultural clubs and identity-based organizations that celebrate different backgrounds and experiences — including LGBTQ+ groups, international student groups, and religious organizations.
Most students live on campus in traditional dorms or apartment-style housing. The residential houses have their own unique personalities and traditions, with common areas for studying, socializing, and events. There's a strong community vibe, and you really get to know the people you live with.
Even though academics are rigorous, the environment is supportive, not cutthroat. Professors are accessible, and the student-to-faculty ratio is low, so you’ll get plenty of attention and mentorship. The open curriculum allows students to explore widely and double major or build interdisciplinary paths.
There are over 100 student-run clubs and orgs at Vassar, ranging from political and activist groups to acapella groups, club sports, debate teams, and more. If you can’t find a club you like, you can easily start your own.
Vassar is part of NCAA Division III, so you can join varsity sports without the pressure of a professional-level environment. There are also tons of intramural sports and outdoor activities — the campus has beautiful trails, a lake, and facilities for everything from rock climbing to rowing.
Dining is centralized in the All Campus Dining Center (ACDC), with flexible meal plans and plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and international options. There are also smaller cafés and coffee shops around campus for variety.
Vassar is known for being progressive, thoughtful, and socially aware. Students are passionate about causes, and conversations often blend the academic with the personal. It’s a place where you’re encouraged to think critically, speak up, and engage with the world.
Student life at Vassar is about freedom, creativity, and community. It attracts independent thinkers, artists, scholars, and changemakers. Whether you're writing poetry, coding an app, playing ultimate frisbee, or organizing a campus event — there’s room for you to find your people and grow.
95%+ of graduates are employed, in graduate school, or engaged in meaningful work (e.g., fellowships, research) within 6–12 months of graduation.
Vassar alumni go into a wide range of fields: education, finance, tech, media, arts, law, public policy, non-profits, and more.
Vassar students are highly sought after for their critical thinking, writing, and problem-solving skills. Employers include:
JPMorgan Chase
The New York Times
United Nations
Goldman Sachs
Amazon
Teach for America
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
McKinsey & Company
Vassar is a launchpad for grad school. Students regularly go on to:
Harvard
Yale
Stanford
Columbia
MIT
Oxford
Top law schools, medical schools, and PhD programs
The Career Development Office (CDO) provides:
Resume and cover letter workshops
1-on-1 career counseling
Internship and job search help
Graduate school advising
Alumni networking events
On-campus recruiting and career fairs
Funding for unpaid internships (through the Internship Grant Program)
Over 70% of students complete at least one internship before graduating
Vassar offers summer research opportunities and funding for independent projects
Students intern in NYC, D.C., abroad, and on-campus through academic departments
U.S.–China Student Fellows Program
Exploring Transfer Program (partnership with community colleges)
Field Work Program – academic credit for internships during the semester
Engaged Pluralism Initiative – leadership & diversity skill-building
The acceptance rate of Vassar College, USA is approximately 18–20% in recent admission cycles.
Highly selective liberal arts college
Acceptance rate may vary slightly depending on the year, applicant pool, and decision round (Early vs. Regular)
Early Decision applicants typically have a higher acceptance rate than Regular Decision applicants
Vassar receives 8,000–11,000+ applications annually
Enrolls a first-year class of around 680–700 students
Strong focus on holistic admissions:
Academic rigor
Essays
Extracurriculars
Recommendations
Diversity of background and thought
Test-Optional Policy: Submitting SAT/ACT scores is not required
Address:
124 Raymond Avenue
City: Poughkeepsie
State: New York
ZIP Code: 12604
Country: United States
Located in the Hudson Valley, about 75 miles (120 km) north of New York City
Easily accessible by train (Metro-North or Amtrak) — around 1 hour 45 minutes from NYC
Surrounded by scenic landscapes, historic towns, and the Hudson River
