Overview
Kenyon College is a selective private four-year institution in Gambier, Ohio. The school accepts 34.3% of applicants and enrolls 1,753 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 34.3%
- Average SAT
- 1,433
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,350–1,515
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 33
- Total Enrollment
- 1,753
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Kenyon's application requires you to write about why you want to attend this specific college, and generic responses about "small liberal arts education" will not impress the admissions committee. Research specific professors in your intended major and mention their work or courses that excite you. The college receives thousands of essays about wanting close relationships with faculty, so dig deeper into particular academic opportunities that draw you to Gambier.
Your "Why Kenyon" essay should reference specific programs like the Kenyon Review Literary Festival, the Brown Family Environmental Center, or summer research opportunities with faculty. If you're interested in writing, mention the Kenyon Review's undergraduate internship program or the chance to take classes with published authors on the English faculty. Science applicants should highlight the college's undergraduate research opportunities and the new Tomsich Hall science facility.
Kenyon attracts students who genuinely enjoy intellectual conversations outside the classroom. The campus culture revolves around residential life, with most students living on campus all four years in tight-knit residence halls. You'll fit well here if you want to know your professors personally and prefer discussion-based seminars over large lecture courses. The social scene centers around campus events rather than Greek life, though fraternities and sororities do exist.
Apply Early Decision if Kenyon is your clear first choice, as the college admits a higher percentage of ED applicants. Your application will be stronger if you demonstrate interest through campus visits, interviews, or attending virtual information sessions. The admissions office tracks demonstrated interest, so engage meaningfully with their communications.
Focus your extracurricular descriptions on leadership roles and sustained commitments rather than padding your activities list. Kenyon prefers students who dive deep into fewer activities over those who spread themselves thin across many superficial involvements. If you're applying for financial aid, submit your forms early as the college has limited need-based aid to distribute.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $29,383/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $69,330
- Students Receiving Aid
- 10%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 86.8%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $71,830/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 91.3%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Kenyon College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Kenyon College is test-optional, meaning you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores. If you choose to submit scores, they will be considered as part of your application.
Does Kenyon College offer early decision or early action?
Kenyon offers two early decision rounds with binding admission commitments. Early Decision I has a November 15 deadline, and Early Decision II has a January 15 deadline.
Can you transfer to Kenyon College as a sophomore or junior?
Kenyon accepts transfer students for fall and spring semesters. Transfer applicants must have completed at least one semester of college coursework and maintain good academic standing at their current institution.
What is Kenyon College known for academically?
Kenyon is particularly known for its English and creative writing programs, with many notable alumni authors. The college also has strong programs in economics, biology, and liberal arts education with small class sizes.