Overview
Middlebury College is a highly selective private four-year institution in Middlebury, Vermont. The school accepts 12.7% of applicants and enrolls 2,785 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 12.7%
- Average SAT
- 1,483
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,425–1,540
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 34
- Total Enrollment
- 2,785
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
Middlebury's admissions committee cares deeply about environmental stewardship and global engagement, so your application should reflect genuine involvement in sustainability initiatives or international experiences. The college's FebruaryFest tradition, where the entire campus celebrates winter with snow sculptures and outdoor activities, represents the community spirit you need to demonstrate through concrete examples of bringing people together.
Unlike peer liberal arts colleges, Middlebury operates the Middlebury Language Schools during summer, creating an immersive linguistic environment that attracts faculty and students worldwide. If you're serious about language study, mention specific programs like the Arabic School or Russian School, and explain how you'd contribute to this multilingual community beyond just taking classes.
The school's carbon neutrality commitment since 2016 makes environmental action more than just a talking point here. Your essays should reference specific sustainability projects you've led, not just participated in. The college's biomass plant and solar installations demonstrate institutional commitment, so show your own measurable environmental impact.
Don't write generically about "small liberal arts colleges" in your supplements. Middlebury's location in Vermont's Green Mountains creates unique opportunities for outdoor recreation and environmental research that you won't find at urban competitors like Swarthmore or Williams. Reference specific programs like the Environmental Studies major or the Mountain Club's role in campus life.
Your "Why Middlebury" essay must go beyond academics. The college's J-Term allows for intensive study abroad or research projects between fall and spring semesters. Explain exactly which J-Term opportunity you'd pursue and how it connects to your academic goals, not just that you want to travel.
Early Decision provides a significant advantage here, but only apply ED if you're genuinely excited about Vermont winters and small-town life. The Middlebury campus becomes isolated during winter months, and admissions officers can tell when applicants haven't considered this reality.
The college's strength in international studies stems from its language programs and global alumni network. If you're applying for International Relations, demonstrate language proficiency beyond classroom study and explain how you'd use Middlebury's extensive study abroad partnerships in your junior year.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $25,934/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $65,280
- Students Receiving Aid
- 17%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 92.6%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $76,310/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 93.6%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Middlebury College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Middlebury College is test-optional, meaning you can choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores with your application.
Does Middlebury College offer Early Decision or Early Action?
Middlebury offers Early Decision I (November 15 deadline) and Early Decision II (January 1 deadline), both of which are binding admission options.
Can you transfer to Middlebury College as a sophomore or junior?
Yes, Middlebury accepts transfer students for fall and spring semesters. Transfer applicants must have completed at least one full year of college coursework.
What is Middlebury College known for academically?
Middlebury is particularly known for its language programs, international studies, and liberal arts education. The college operates prestigious language schools during the summer and has strong programs in economics and environmental studies.