Bennington College vs Colby College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences in academic focus between Bennington College and Colby College?

  Bennington College emphasizes a highly individualized, self-directed learning experience through its Plan Process, where students design their own curriculum and engage in intensive field work each year. Colby College offers a more traditional liberal arts curriculum with structured majors and minors, while still providing opportunities for research and independent study. Bennington is known for its strength in the arts and humanities, while Colby has strong programs across the liberal arts, including sciences and economics.

• How do the campus cultures compare at Bennington and Colby?

  Bennington College fosters a very close-knit, experimental, and artistically inclined community. It's known for its progressive values and emphasis on individual expression. Colby College has a more traditional New England college feel, with a strong emphasis on academics, athletics, and outdoor activities. While also progressive, the culture is generally perceived as more mainstream than Bennington's.

• What are the differences in location and surrounding environment?

  Bennington College is located in a small, rural town in southwestern Vermont, offering a quiet and secluded environment conducive to focused study and artistic creation. Colby College is situated in Waterville, Maine, a small city that provides a balance of urban amenities and access to the outdoors, including nearby lakes and mountains.

• How do the admissions processes differ between Bennington and Colby?

  Both Bennington and Colby are highly selective. Bennington places a strong emphasis on the applicant's creative portfolio, personal essay, and demonstrated passion for their chosen field. Colby considers a wide range of factors, including academic record, standardized test scores (though test-optional), extracurricular activities, and essays, seeking well-rounded students with strong leadership potential.

• What is the approach to financial aid at Bennington College and Colby College?

  Both Bennington and Colby are committed to meeting the demonstrated financial need of their students. They offer a range of financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, and loans. Colby is known for its robust financial aid program, including initiatives to reduce or eliminate student loans for eligible families. Bennington also provides generous aid packages and encourages students to explore work-study opportunities.

• What are the opportunities for studying abroad at Bennington and Colby?

  Both colleges offer a variety of study abroad programs. Colby has a well-established network of programs around the world, allowing students to immerse themselves in different cultures and academic environments. Bennington encourages students to integrate their study abroad experience with their Plan Process, often pursuing field work or independent projects in international settings.

• How do the career services and alumni networks compare?

  Colby College has a strong career services office that provides students with resources for internships, job searching, and career counseling. Its alumni network is extensive and well-connected, particularly in fields like finance, government, and medicine. Bennington's career services focus on helping students translate their unique Plan Process experiences into marketable skills. Its alumni network is strong in the arts, media, and non-profit sectors.

• What are the typical class sizes and student-to-faculty ratios at each college?

  Bennington College is known for its small class sizes and low student-to-faculty ratio, fostering close interaction between students and professors. Colby College also maintains relatively small class sizes, though they may be slightly larger than Bennington's. Both institutions prioritize personalized attention and mentorship.

• What are some notable academic programs at Bennington and Colby?

  Bennington is renowned for its programs in visual and performing arts, writing, literature, and dance. Colby College is strong in environmental studies, government, economics, and the sciences, particularly biology and chemistry. Both colleges offer a wide range of other academic disciplines.

• What are the athletic opportunities at Bennington and Colby?

  Colby College is a member of the NCAA Division III and offers a wide range of varsity sports. Athletics are a significant part of the campus culture. Bennington College has a less traditional approach to athletics, focusing on individual fitness and wellness activities. While they have some competitive teams, the emphasis is on participation and personal growth rather than high-level competition.