I'm a senior applying to liberal arts colleges like Williams and Swarthmore, but want to make sure I have a couple of safety schools on my list. Can anyone recommend some solid options that still have a strong liberal arts focus but aren't as competitive in admissions?
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Safety schools for liberal arts majors should accept at least 50% of applicants while maintaining strong academic programs and a true liberal arts experience. The University of Mary Washington in Virginia offers an excellent liberal arts education with a 75% acceptance rate and average SAT scores around 1100-1300. Students interested in schools like Williams and Swarthmore will find similar small class sizes and professor interaction, though with less competitive admission standards.
St. Michael's College in Vermont provides another strong safety option for liberal arts applicants. With an acceptance rate over 80% and middle-range SAT scores of 1130-1330, St. Michael's delivers a traditional liberal arts curriculum with opportunities for close faculty mentorship. The college maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, similar to more selective institutions.
Consider adding Susquehanna University to your safety school list. Located in Pennsylvania, Susquehanna accepts around 72% of applicants while offering comprehensive liberal arts programs. The university provides research opportunities and interdisciplinary studies that mirror more selective colleges, making it an excellent backup choice for students aiming at top-tier liberal arts schools.
When selecting safety schools for liberal arts, look for institutions where your academic credentials fall well above their average admitted student profile. Your test scores and GPA should ideally be in the top 25% of admitted students. Also ensure these schools offer your intended major and maintain small class sizes typical of liberal arts colleges. This approach ensures you'll have strong options if your reach schools don't work out.
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