Overview
Founded in 1967 and opened in 1971, The Evergreen State College was established as an alternative public institution emphasizing experimental pedagogy, interdisciplinary team-taught programs, and narrative evaluations instead of traditional grades. It quickly developed a reputation as one of the most progressive public colleges in the United States, attracting students seeking self-directed learning, environmental studies, and social justice-oriented curricula. Evergreen gained national attention in 2017 amid campus protests and free-speech controversies, which significantly impacted enrollment and public perception in subsequent years.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Olympia, Washington |
| Founded | 1967 |
| Total students | 2,300 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 12:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 98% |
| Graduation rate | 51% |
| Average starting salary | $40,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $8,700 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $26,700 |
| Room & board | $12,500 |
| Average financial aid | $10,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 80% |
Admissions
| SAT range | Not required |
| ACT range | Not required |
| Average GPA | 3.20 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Environmental Studies
- Marine Biology
- Media Arts
- Native American and Indigenous Studies
- Political Ecology
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.