Faq

Frequently Asked Questions

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All General Admission Process Student Safety Programs and Courses Scholarships and financial aid Location and Accommodation Post Study Work Visa

What is Washington College known for?

Washington College is best known as the first college chartered in the new American nation in 1782, with the patronage of George Washington. It has a strong reputation for its liberal arts curriculum, particularly in creative writing through the Sophie Kerr Prize, environmental science via its Center for Environment & Society, and American history through the Starr Center. The college emphasizes hands-on learning, close faculty mentorship, and its beautiful location on the Chester River.

Is Washington College a public or private school?

Washington College is a private, liberal arts college. It is not part of a state university system and operates as an independent, non-profit institution, which allows it to craft a distinctive curriculum and maintain a low student-to-faculty ratio.

What is the student population and campus size?

The college has a close-knit, residential community of approximately 1,100 undergraduate students. The campus spans 112 acres in the historic town of Chestertown, Maryland, providing a traditional collegiate setting with easy access to the waterfront for recreation and research.

What are the application requirements for first-year students?

First-year applicants must submit the Common Application, official high school transcripts, a counselor recommendation, and at least one teacher evaluation. Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) are currently optional for most applicants. A personal essay is also required to help the admissions committee understand the student's character and writing ability.

Does Washington College offer interviews?

Yes, the admissions office strongly encourages prospective students to schedule an interview. Interviews are conducted by admissions counselors and are a valuable opportunity for applicants to discuss their interests and achievements beyond their written application, and to demonstrate their interest in the college.

When is the application deadline?

Washington College offers several decision plans. The Early Decision I deadline is November 15, Early Decision II and Regular Decision is January 15, and Rolling Admission continues thereafter until the class is filled. Early Decision is a binding option for students who have determined Washington College is their first choice.

What measures are in place to ensure student safety on campus?

The Department of Public Safety provides 24/7 patrols of the campus and residence halls. The campus is equipped with a network of blue-light emergency phones that connect directly to security. All residence halls have electronic lock access, and the college employs an emergency notification system to rapidly alert the community via text, email, and phone in the event of a critical incident.

How does the college handle mental health support?

The Counseling Center offers confidential, professional short-term therapy and crisis intervention for all students at no additional cost. Services include individual counseling, group therapy, referrals to long-term providers, and extensive outreach and wellness programming to support student mental health and resilience.

Are there safety services for students walking on campus at night?

Yes, the Department of Public Safety offers a safety escort service for any student who feels uncomfortable walking alone on campus after dark. Students can call Public Safety at any hour to request an officer to escort them between any two points on campus.

Can students design their own major?

Yes, through the Independent Major program, students with well-defined academic interests that cross traditional disciplinary boundaries can work with faculty advisors to create a customized course of study. This allows for a highly personalized educational path that aligns with specific career goals or intellectual passions.

What is the Sophie Kerr Prize?

The Sophie Kerr Prize is a literary award given annually to the graduating senior who demonstrates the greatest potential for future achievement in a literary endeavor. With a value often over $60,000, it is the nation's largest undergraduate literary prize and celebrates the legacy of writer Sophie Kerr, supporting the college's deep commitment to the literary arts.

How does the college facilitate hands-on learning?

Washington College integrates experiential learning into its curriculum through required internships, student-faculty collaborative research, field studies in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, and practicums. The Paulson Initiative and other endowed funds provide financial support for unpaid internships and research projects, ensuring all students can gain real-world experience.

What types of financial aid are available?

Washington College offers both merit-based scholarships and need-based financial aid. Merit scholarships are awarded based on a student's academic, artistic, or leadership achievements. Need-based aid, including grants, loans, and work-study, is determined by the information provided on the FAFSA and the CSS Profile.

How do I apply for merit scholarships?

All applicants are automatically considered for the college's premier merit scholarships, such as the George Washington Scholarship and the Hodson Trust Scholarship, during the application review process. No separate application is needed for these. Some specific talent-based awards for writing or the arts may require a portfolio or supplemental materials.

When is the FAFSA deadline?

To receive maximum consideration for need-based financial aid, students should submit the FAFSA and CSS Profile by the application deadline for their chosen decision plan (November 15 for ED I, January 15 for ED II and RD). The college's school code for the FAFSA is 002153.

What is the surrounding town of Chestertown like?

Chestertown is a historic colonial port town on the Chester River, offering a charming and safe environment for students. The town features unique shops, restaurants, and a vibrant arts scene, with regular community events like the Chestertown Tea Party Festival. It provides a quintessential small-college-town atmosphere with a strong sense of community.

Are students required to live on campus?

Yes, Washington College has a residential requirement for all full-time undergraduate students. Students are required to live on campus for their first three years, which helps foster a strong, engaged campus community. Exceptions are made for students living with family locally or those who are married.

What types of housing are available for students?

First-year students typically live in traditional double-occupancy residence halls. Upperclassmen have a variety of options, including suite-style residences, theme houses focused on specific interests or languages, and apartment-style living with kitchenettes. All housing options include resident assistant support.

What support does the college offer for international students seeking to work in the US after graduation?

The International Student Services Office provides dedicated advising for F-1 students on post-graduation work options, primarily Optional Practical Training (OPT). Advisors assist with the application process, timing, and documentation required by USCIS to secure authorization for temporary employment directly related to the student's major field of study.

How long can a graduate stay in the US on OPT?

Typically, OPT allows for 12 months of full-time work authorization following the completion of a degree. Students who graduate with a degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) designated field may be eligible to apply for a 24-month extension, allowing for a total of 36 months of practical training.

Can the Career Center help international students find OPT opportunities?

Yes, the Center for Career Development offers its full range of services to international students seeking OPT. This includes resume and cover letter review tailored to the US job market, practice interviews, and access to the Handshake job platform where they can find employers who are open to sponsoring OPT candidates.