Amherst College vs Middlebury College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key differences between Amherst College and Middlebury College?

  Amherst and Middlebury are both highly selective liberal arts colleges, but they differ in several key aspects. Amherst is known for its open curriculum, allowing students to design their own course of study with minimal requirements. Middlebury, while also offering flexibility, has more structured distribution requirements. Middlebury is located in a more rural setting in Vermont, offering a strong focus on environmental studies and outdoor activities, while Amherst is situated in a more suburban environment in Massachusetts, providing easier access to larger cities like Boston and New York. Middlebury also has a renowned language program, including language schools held during the summer, while Amherst's language programs are excellent but not as central to its overall identity.

• How do the academic programs at Amherst and Middlebury compare?

  Both colleges offer a wide range of strong academic programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Amherst is particularly known for its strengths in English, history, and political science, while Middlebury excels in environmental studies, international studies, and languages. Both institutions emphasize close interaction between students and faculty, with small class sizes and opportunities for undergraduate research. Middlebury's Bread Loaf School of English and Writers' Conferences are also notable assets, particularly for students interested in creative writing and literature.

• What is the campus culture like at Amherst versus Middlebury?

  Amherst's campus culture is often described as intellectually rigorous and politically engaged, with a strong emphasis on social justice and activism. The open curriculum fosters a sense of intellectual independence and self-direction among students. Middlebury's campus culture is more outdoorsy and community-oriented, with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and a close-knit student body. The rural setting encourages students to participate in outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. Both colleges have active student governments and a wide range of extracurricular activities.

• How do the locations of Amherst and Middlebury affect the student experience?

  Amherst's location in western Massachusetts provides a balance between a small-town atmosphere and access to larger urban centers. Students can easily travel to Boston or New York City for cultural events, internships, and other opportunities. Middlebury's rural location in Vermont offers a more immersive and secluded college experience. The surrounding Green Mountains provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, and the town of Middlebury is a charming and historic New England community. The more remote location can make it more challenging to access major cities for internships or other opportunities during the academic year.

• What are the admission rates and selectivity of Amherst and Middlebury?

  Both Amherst and Middlebury are highly selective institutions with very low acceptance rates. Admission to both colleges is extremely competitive, requiring strong academic records, compelling essays, and impressive extracurricular involvement. While acceptance rates fluctuate slightly from year to year, both colleges consistently rank among the most selective liberal arts colleges in the United States. You should aim to present a well-rounded application that showcases your academic abilities, personal qualities, and potential for success in a rigorous academic environment.

• How do the financial aid packages at Amherst and Middlebury compare?

  Both Amherst and Middlebury are committed to meeting the full demonstrated financial need of all admitted students. They offer generous financial aid packages that include grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Both colleges use a need-based financial aid model, meaning that the amount of aid you receive will depend on your family's financial circumstances. It's important to use the net price calculators on each college's website to get an estimate of your potential financial aid package.

• What are the career services and alumni networks like at Amherst and Middlebury?

  Both Amherst and Middlebury offer comprehensive career services to help students explore career options, find internships, and prepare for job interviews. They also have strong alumni networks that can provide valuable connections and mentorship opportunities. Amherst's alumni network is particularly strong in fields like law, finance, and academia, while Middlebury's alumni network is well-represented in environmental fields, international affairs, and education. Both colleges host career fairs, workshops, and networking events throughout the year.

• Do Amherst and Middlebury have any unique programs or offerings?

  Yes, both colleges have unique programs. Amherst's open curriculum is a distinctive feature, allowing students to design their own course of study. Middlebury's language schools, held during the summer, are renowned for their immersive language learning experience. Middlebury also has a strong focus on environmental studies, with a dedicated School of the Environment. Amherst's Five College Consortium allows students to take courses at nearby Smith, Mount Holyoke, Hampshire, and UMass Amherst, expanding their academic options. Consider which of these unique offerings aligns best with your academic and personal interests.

• Which college is better: Amherst or Middlebury?

  There's no single "better" college between Amherst and Middlebury; the best choice depends entirely on your individual preferences, academic interests, and personal goals. If you value an open curriculum, a politically engaged campus, and easy access to urban centers, Amherst might be a better fit. If you prefer a more rural setting, a strong sense of community, and a focus on environmental studies and languages, Middlebury might be a better choice. Visit both campuses if possible, talk to current students, and carefully consider which college feels like the right fit for you.