Colgate University

The sixth and final college I visited recently was Colgate University. Despite its name, Colgate is really a small liberal arts college located in upstate New York in the small town of Hamilton.

Colgate is a  small liberal arts college with 2,800 students from throughout the US.  22% of the students identify themselves as students of color. Like many other colleges, geographic diversity is one of the factors that the college considers so students from outside the Mid Atlantic and Northeast you may have a slight admissions advantage.

The 500 acre campus is situated on a hill overlooking the small town of Hamilton.  Students will get in shape walking this hilly campus but the beauty of the campus more than makes up for the hills. There is a good mix of new and old buildings although the college has made an effort to keep a similar look to many of the buildings so there is a feel of continuity. The maintenance of the campus is excellent.

Over 90% of students live right on campus. Greek life has a definite presence on campus with a little more than a third of the students involved. According to the students, most of the social life involves the fraternities and sororities but everyone is welcome at the parties.

94% of students return for sophomore year and 88% of students do graduate within six years.  These are strong indicators of the strength of the college as well as the strength of the Colgate students. The average GPA of accepted students is 3.73 out of 4.0. The mid 50% of SAT is 660 to 740 critical reading and 660 to 750 math. Note that these scores are somewhat inflated since they are the scores of admitted students, not enrolled students. The middle 50% of the ACT is 30 to 33.

Early decision gives an admissions advantage at Colgate with almost 50% of admitted students admitted Early Decision.  The admit rate for Early Decision students was 56% while it was only 31% for the regular decision applicants.

The college has substantial need based financial aid available for students and meets the full financial need of all of its students.  The average financial aid package for the Class of 2013 was $38,423.  39% of the class received financial aid.

The college has 25 varsity teams that play Division I sports in the competitive Patriot League.  Colgate is unusual in playing Division I sports and it is one of the factors that distinguishes the college from the other fine liberal arts colleges in mid state New York. In addition to varsity sports, there are a number of club and intramural sports available at Colgate.

The visit to Colgate was a great way to close out my trip to New York.  Academically accomplished students, a beautiful campus and great athletics. If you are looking at selective colleges, Colgate should definitely be on your list.