Overview
Founded in 1822 as Hobart College for men and 1908 as William Smith College for women, the two colleges operate as a coordinate system sharing faculty, facilities, and curriculum while maintaining separate deans, traditions, and athletic programs. Located in Geneva, New York, on the shores of Seneca Lake, HWS has built a reputation for rigorous liberal arts education, strong pre-professional preparation, and one of the highest rates of study abroad participation among American colleges. The institution is particularly known for its interdisciplinary approach and commitment to civic engagement.
At a Glance
| Type | Liberal Arts |
| Location | Geneva, New York |
| Founded | 1822 |
| Total students | 2,200 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 10:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 68% |
| Graduation rate | 78% |
| Average starting salary | $52,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $62,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $62,000 |
| Room & board | $16,500 |
| Average financial aid | $40,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 85% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1180-1370 |
| ACT range | 26-31 |
| Average GPA | 3.55 |
| Regular deadline | February 1 |
Top Programs
- Environmental Studies
- Economics
- Political Science
- Biology
- English
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.