Reed College

Reed seeks students who demonstrate a commitment to learning and to the ideals embodied by a rigorous and stimulating liberal arts education. First-year and transfer applications are welcome. The ideal incoming class is diverse in its range of talents, interests, ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds, and perspectives, and comprised of students who share a common passion for academic inquiry. Successful applicants have pursued a rigorous secondary school curriculum that includes honors and advanced courses. Reed recommends that students take 4 or 5 core academic courses per year which typically includes 4 years of English, at least 3 years of a foreign or classical language, 3 to 4 years of mathematics, 3 to 4 years of science, and 3 to 4 years of history or social studies. Because secondary school curricula vary widely in quality and content, Reed sets no fixed requirements in this area. The admissions committee sets no "cutoff points" for high school grades, college grades (for transfer students), or standardized test scores. Reed seeks candidates who demonstrate excellence of character, motivation, intellectual curiosity, individual responsibility, and social consciousness. The admission committee recognizes the importance of creating a diverse community in which individual differences contribute to the vitality of the campus and enhance the learning opportunities for students. Reed recommends a personal interview but an interview is not required. Early Decision applicants should apply to Reed by November 15 (ED 1) or December 20 (ED 2). Early Decision at Reed is binding: students who are admitted under Early Decision are expected to matriculate. Early Action applications should arrive at Reed by November 15. The deadline for regular freshman admission applications is January 15. Transfer candidates seeking admission for the spring semester should apply no later than November 1 and for the fall semester, March 1.