Smith College vs Franklin and Marshall College (FandM)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Smith College and Franklin & Marshall College?

  Smith College is a highly selective, historically women's liberal arts college located in Northampton, Massachusetts. It's part of the Seven Sisters colleges and offers a strong sense of community and a focus on empowering women. Franklin & Marshall College (F&M) is a coeducational, highly selective liberal arts college located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. F&M emphasizes close student-faculty interaction and offers a more traditional co-ed college experience.

• Are Smith College and Franklin & Marshall College single-sex or coeducational?

  Smith College is a women's college, meaning it primarily enrolls female students. Franklin & Marshall College is coeducational, enrolling both male and female students.

• Where are Smith College and Franklin & Marshall College located?

  Smith College is located in Northampton, Massachusetts, a vibrant college town in the Pioneer Valley. Franklin & Marshall College is located in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, a city with a rich history and a growing arts and culture scene.

• How do the academic programs at Smith College and Franklin & Marshall College compare?

  Both Smith College and Franklin & Marshall College offer a wide range of liberal arts programs. Smith is known for its strong programs in the sciences, arts, and humanities, and it offers a unique open curriculum. F&M is known for its strong programs in government, economics, and the sciences, and it emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and research opportunities. Both colleges encourage students to explore their interests and develop critical thinking skills.

• What is the student body size and diversity like at Smith College and Franklin & Marshall College?

  Smith College has a student body of approximately 2,600 undergraduate students, primarily women, with a diverse range of backgrounds and perspectives. Franklin & Marshall College has a student body of approximately 2,300 undergraduate students, with a coeducational environment and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Both colleges attract students from across the United States and around the world.

• What is the campus culture like at Smith College and Franklin & Marshall College?

  Smith College fosters a strong sense of community and empowerment for women. The campus culture is known for its intellectual curiosity, social activism, and support for individual expression. Franklin & Marshall College offers a more traditional co-ed college experience with a focus on student engagement, leadership development, and a vibrant social scene. Both colleges offer a variety of clubs, organizations, and activities to enhance the student experience.

• What are the career services and opportunities like at Smith College and Franklin & Marshall College?

  Both Smith College and Franklin & Marshall College offer comprehensive career services to help students explore career options, develop professional skills, and connect with employers. Smith College has a strong alumnae network that provides valuable mentorship and networking opportunities. Franklin & Marshall College emphasizes internships and experiential learning to prepare students for the workforce. Both colleges have a strong track record of placing graduates in successful careers.

• How do the admissions processes compare between Smith College and Franklin & Marshall College?

  Both Smith College and Franklin & Marshall College have highly selective admissions processes. They both consider a variety of factors, including academic record, standardized test scores (though both are test-optional), essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities. Smith College places a strong emphasis on the applicant's fit with the college's mission and values as a women's college. Franklin & Marshall College looks for students who are intellectually curious, engaged in their communities, and demonstrate leadership potential.

• What is the cost of attendance at Smith College and Franklin & Marshall College, and what financial aid options are available?

  The cost of attendance at both Smith College and Franklin & Marshall College is significant, but both institutions offer generous financial aid packages to make college affordable for students from all socioeconomic backgrounds. Both colleges offer need-based grants, merit-based scholarships, and student loans. It's important to visit the financial aid websites of both colleges to learn more about specific costs and financial aid options.

• What are some unique aspects of Smith College that Franklin & Marshall College doesn't offer?

  Smith College offers a unique educational experience as a historically women's college, providing a supportive and empowering environment for women to excel. It also has an open curriculum, allowing students greater flexibility in designing their course of study. Smith's strong alumnae network provides unparalleled networking and mentorship opportunities for female graduates.

• What are some unique aspects of Franklin & Marshall College that Smith College doesn't offer?

  Franklin & Marshall College offers a traditional coeducational liberal arts experience, providing a diverse and balanced learning environment. Its location in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, offers access to a vibrant city with a rich history and a growing arts and culture scene. F&M's emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and research opportunities provides students with a well-rounded education and prepares them for a variety of career paths.

• Which college is better for students interested in STEM fields?

  Both Smith College and Franklin & Marshall College have strong STEM programs. Smith has a dedicated Picker Engineering Program and a strong focus on women in STEM. F&M also has excellent science facilities and research opportunities. The 'better' choice depends on the specific STEM field and the student's preferred learning environment. Researching specific departments and faculty is recommended.