Overview
Founded in 1932 as a women's college, Bennington College pioneered progressive education emphasizing student-designed curricula, close faculty mentorship, and the integration of arts with academics. It quickly became renowned for its dance, drama, and visual arts programs, and later for its influential writing faculty, producing generations of acclaimed novelists, poets, and choreographers. The college went coeducational in 1969 and has maintained a reputation as one of the most experimental and academically rigorous liberal arts institutions in the country.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Bennington, Vermont |
| Founded | 1932 |
| Total students | 700 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 8:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 68% |
| Graduation rate | 72% |
| Average starting salary | $42,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $58,610 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $58,610 |
| Room & board | $16,780 |
| Average financial aid | $40,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 85% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1130-1340 |
| ACT range | 24-30 |
| Average GPA | 3.5 |
| Regular deadline | January 15 |
Top Programs
- Creative Writing
- Visual Arts
- Dance
- Drama
- Literature
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.