Wellesley College vs Sarah Lawrence College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key differences in academic philosophy between Wellesley and Sarah Lawrence?

  Wellesley emphasizes a rigorous liberal arts education with a strong foundation in traditional disciplines, encouraging students to explore a wide range of subjects before specializing. Sarah Lawrence, on the other hand, is known for its highly individualized approach, centered around small seminar classes and independent study projects guided by faculty mentors. Sarah Lawrence students typically focus on a specific area of study from the beginning.

• How do the campus environments and locations compare?

  Wellesley College boasts a beautiful, traditional campus located in a suburban setting near Boston, Massachusetts, offering a blend of natural beauty and access to a major city. Sarah Lawrence College is situated in Bronxville, New York, a small village just north of New York City, providing a more intimate campus environment with immediate access to the cultural and professional opportunities of NYC.

• What are the differences in class sizes and student-faculty ratios?

  Both colleges pride themselves on small class sizes and close student-faculty interaction. However, Sarah Lawrence generally has even smaller classes than Wellesley. Wellesley's student-faculty ratio is around 9:1, while Sarah Lawrence's is approximately 8:1, reflecting its emphasis on individualized attention.

• How do the colleges differ in their approach to grading and academic evaluation?

  Wellesley uses a traditional grading system (A-F). Sarah Lawrence employs a narrative evaluation system alongside letter grades. Faculty write detailed evaluations of each student's work, providing personalized feedback and assessment of their progress. This system is designed to encourage intellectual risk-taking and focus on learning rather than solely on grades.

• What are the strengths of each college in terms of specific academic programs?

  Wellesley is particularly strong in STEM fields, economics, political science, and international relations, with excellent research opportunities. Sarah Lawrence excels in the arts (writing, theater, dance, music), humanities, and interdisciplinary studies, fostering creativity and critical thinking.

• How do the student bodies and campus cultures compare?

  Both Wellesley and Sarah Lawrence attract highly motivated and intellectually curious students. Wellesley's student body is known for its strong sense of community and tradition, with a focus on leadership and social impact. Sarah Lawrence's student body is often described as more individualistic and artistically inclined, with a strong emphasis on self-expression and intellectual exploration.

• What are the career services and internship opportunities like at each college?

  Both colleges offer comprehensive career services to help students with internships, job searches, and career planning. Wellesley benefits from its proximity to Boston's thriving business and technology sectors, while Sarah Lawrence leverages its location near New York City's diverse industries, particularly in the arts, media, and non-profit sectors. Both colleges have strong alumni networks that support students in their career pursuits.

• What is the cost of attendance and financial aid availability at Wellesley and Sarah Lawrence?

  The cost of attendance at both Wellesley and Sarah Lawrence is comparable, and both institutions are committed to meeting the demonstrated financial need of their students. They offer a range of financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, and loans. It's best to visit their respective financial aid websites for the most up-to-date information and to use their net price calculators to estimate your individual cost.

• What are the similarities between Wellesley and Sarah Lawrence?

  Both Wellesley and Sarah Lawrence are highly selective liberal arts colleges with a strong commitment to women's education (though Sarah Lawrence is now co-educational). They both offer small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a supportive learning environment. Both institutions emphasize critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and preparing students for leadership roles in various fields.

• Is Wellesley a women's college, and is Sarah Lawrence?

  Wellesley College is a women's college, dedicated to the education of women. Sarah Lawrence College became coeducational in 1968 and admits students of all genders.