Overview
Founded in 1901 by Indiana Fletcher Williams, Sweet Briar College is a private liberal arts institution located on a scenic former plantation estate in rural Virginia. Historically a women's college, Sweet Briar built a reputation for strong programs in the sciences, engineering, and equestrian studies, along with a rigorous liberal arts curriculum. The college gained national attention in 2015 when its board announced plans to close the institution, sparking an intense alumnae-led effort that successfully reversed the decision and preserved the college, which now operates with renewed institutional focus and a reimagined curriculum.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | Sweet Briar, Virginia |
| Founded | 1901 |
| Total students | 300 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 8:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 90% |
| Graduation rate | 60% |
| Average starting salary | $42,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $36,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $36,000 |
| Room & board | $13,500 |
| Average financial aid | $28,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 98% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 970-1180 |
| ACT range | 18-25 |
| Average GPA | 3.40 |
| Regular deadline | Rolling |
Top Programs
- Equine Studies
- Engineering
- Biology
- Psychology
- Studio Art
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.