Undergraduate International Admissions

Earlham seeks students who are academically prepared, intellectually curious and who possess a variety of special talents and interests. We also look for students who are comfortable in their own skin and embrace differences. Admission to Earlham College is selective, and we expect our students to demonstrate superior academic performance and preparation, as well as an excellent record of extracurricular involvement.

In our application review process, our admissions team considers each part of your application, giving special weight to your academic preparation. You’ll also have a special adviser who will work closely with you on matters of immigration issues, cultural adaptation and practical concerns.

Academic preparation

Although Earlham does not have specific entrance requirements, most successful applicants have completed a minimum of:

• 4 credits of English, such as literature, grammar or composition
• 3 credits of mathematics, such as algebra, geometry, pre-calculus or calculus
• 2 credits of social sciences, such as government, economics, sociology, history or similar topics
• 2 credits of sciences, such as biology, chemistry or physics
• 2 credits of world languages, including a second language that is not your native language
• Studio or performing arts, experience in the area of studio or performing arts is very desirable

When available and appropriate, we encourage students to enroll in a challenging curriculum.

Grades in academic classes

Earlham takes your cumulative grade point average into consideration when reviewing your application.

Other decision-making factors

At Earlham, we take a holistic approach to reviewing applications. When provided, we take into consideration leadership experience, extracurricular involvement, community service and work experience. International applications must also be able to meet the minimum level of family financial support.

English proficiency

All international students whose first language is not English must provide verification of English proficiency in order to apply for an F1 visa. Earlham accepts score reports for the following tests: TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, GTEC, ISA, Cambridge, Pearson, SAT and ACT. Students could also use an achieved IB English class grade that is equivalent to CEFR B2+ or higher.

Current accepted tests and minimum required scores are:

Earlham is test score optional regarding the SAT and ACT. Students are not required to take one of these college entrance exams.

While we understand the many issues present in standardized testing, Earlham’s current registration with SEVIS requires compliance with these test score requirements. SEVIS is the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System used by the Department of State on behalf of the Department of Homeland Security (in other words, important US governmental agencies). Therefore, the international student advisers must use test scores to substantiate academic preparedness and English proficiency when preparing an I-20 (the document needed to apply for a student visa) for an admitted student.

Earlham is pleased to be part of a pilot program through which Korean students who have taken the CSAT (College Scholastic Ability Test/Suneung) in the fall/winter of 2020 can use their score to apply for admissions as a full-time student to begin in August 2022.

In partnership with InitialView, students will only need to submit their CSAT scores via Uway and participate in an InitialView interview/writing sample. In as little as five business days, Earlham’s Office of Admissions will provide you with a preliminary admissions decision. Final decisions are confirmed when secondary school transcripts are received and financial documents are reviewed.

Hear more about Earlham from our director of international admissions.

Early action deadlines

• • Early action 1: Nov. 1, 2023
  • Early action 2: Dec. 1, 2023

Regular decision deadlines

• • Deadline extended!

With more than 40 majors and minors to choose from, as well as applied minors that combine academic interests with hands-on practical experiences, your Earlham adventure starts here. You have until the end of your second year to declare your major. You also have time in your schedule to take classes outside of your major courses. That gives you the opportunity to explore other areas of interest! You can major, double major, major/minor or create your own program!

See all majors and minors.

Every international applicant must provide financial information as part of your application to Earlham We cannot evaluate an application without this information. Please provide accurate and thorough answers to all of the questions that apply to you and your family. After you submit your application to Earlham, then you will be able to complete the financial information form right on your student application portal.

Earlham considers each international application for a merit scholarship and possibly an institutional grant and on-campus work award.

Merit scholarships are awarded to students who have distinguished themselves academically. This year, the merit scholarships range up to $37,000 and are awarded for up to eight semesters if GPA requirements are maintained.

Institutional grants are awarded based on demonstrated financial need and academic accomplishments.

Earlham does not award scholarships or grants for housing, food and other costs (such as books, personal items, flights to/from campus and other indirect costs). International students (non-UWC) and families need to be able to contribute at least $25,000 a year for the first year and then that amount plus yearly increases in cost of attendance.

Earlham is a proud member of the Davis UWC Scholars Program. Graduates of the United World Colleges are eligible for special funding at Earlham College through the generosity of the Davis Foundation. Please contact the Director of International Admissions for the specific information.

Please note: The International Financial Aid Committee determines the level of merit scholarship and institutional grant for international students. Inquiries about international financial aid can be directed to [email protected].

Inquiries about international financial aid can be directed to the director of international admissions at [email protected] or the Office of Financial Aid.

View Earlham’s financial aid resources.

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There’s nothing like seeing it for yourself. See all Earlham has to offer!