51³Ô¹Ï꿉۪s 1,900 curious, compassionate students lead by example and seek connection across differences. They come from nearly every state and dozens of countries to find their Gold Within – and let it shine.
Admission and Aid
Your Path to Success
At 51³Ô¹ÏÍø in Greencastle, Indiana, we believe that extraordinary talent deserves extraordinary opportunity regardless of financial circumstances. That's why, beginning with the class entering in Fall 2026, we committed to meeting 100% of the calculated financial need for every incoming first-year student through The 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Promise. Here, you'll find a top-ranked residential liberal arts education, close faculty mentorship, and a community that sees your potential and invests in your success. This is where you discover your Gold Within.
Admission & Aid at a Glance
- Application Deadlines: Early Decision I (Nov. 1), Early Action (Nov. 1), Early Decision II (Dec. 15), Early Action II (Dec. 15), Regular Decision (Feb. 1)
- Application Fee: $0 (51³Ô¹ÏÍø is committed to removing barriers to higher education)
- Test-Optional: Yes, 51³Ô¹ÏÍø has a long-standing test-optional policy.
- Financial Aid: 100% of calculated financial need met for all incoming first-year students (starting Fall 2026)
- Merit Scholarships: Automatically considered upon application; awards range from $20,000 to full tuition
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1, ensuring personalized mentorship from day one
- Proven Outcomes: 51³Ô¹ÏÍø graduates rank in the top 7% nationally for long-term earnings
- Recognized Value: Named a "New Dream School" by Jeffrey Selingo; featured in ; ranked #9 Most Innovative by U.S. News & World Report
Discover the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø difference
Ignite your curiosity
Explore new ideas, new approaches and new perspectives. With our uncommon commitment to the liberal arts, you will delve deeply into your chosen subject while also gaining a broad understanding of the world around you.
The 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Promise
At 51³Ô¹ÏÍø, we invest in your future with exceptional academics, transformative experiences and unparalleled support. That is why, beginning with the class entering in Fall 2026, we will meet 100 percent of the calculated financial need for every incoming first-year student.
Plan your visit
Visiting campus is the best way to discover if 51³Ô¹ÏÍø is the right fit for you. Wander around campus, talk to students and professors, sit in on classes, and even attend arts, athletics or other events that may catch your interest.
More resources
- Find your admission counselor
- ¸é±ð±¹¾±±ð·ÉÌýadmission criteria
- ·¡³æ±è±ô´Ç°ù±ðÌýincoming student resources
- Check your
- Learn more about 51³Ô¹ÏÍø
Frequently Asked Questions about Admission and Aid
Yes. All applicants are automatically considered for merit scholarships ranging from $20,000 to full tuition. 51³Ô¹ÏÍø also offers competitive premier scholarships, including the Edward G. Rector Scholarship (full tuition), the Vernon E. Jordan Jr. Scholarship for Public Service and Community Leadership, and the Judson and Joyce Green Endowed Music Performance Scholarship.
Yes. 51³Ô¹ÏÍø has a long-standing test-optional policy. We believe your high school curriculum, personal character, and leadership are better indicators of your potential for success than a single standardized test.
The 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Promise is our commitment to meeting 100% of the calculated financial need for every incoming first-year student, beginning with the class entering in Fall 2026. This ensures that cost will never be a barrier to your 51³Ô¹ÏÍø education.
To apply for need-based aid, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) by Feb. 1. International students and some domestic students may also need to complete the CSS Profile. Merit scholarships are awarded automatically upon admission—no separate application required.
Yes. 51³Ô¹ÏÍø offers several competitive full-tuition scholarships, including the Edward G. Rector Scholarship and specialized awards for our centers of distinction. All applicants are automatically considered for these premier scholarships.
• Early Decision I: Nov. 1 (binding)
• Early Action: Dec. 1 (non-binding)
• Regular Decision: Feb. 1
• Transfer (Fall): March 1 (priority), rolling thereafter
• Transfer (Spring): Nov. 1
Yes. Through The 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Promise, we meet 100% of calculated financial need for all incoming first-year students. Additionally, more than 95% of 51³Ô¹ÏÍø students receive some form of financial assistance. Our graduates rank in the top 7% nationally for long-term earnings, ensuring a strong return on your investment.
Visiting campus is the best way to discover if 51³Ô¹ÏÍø is the right fit for you. We offer daily tours, shadow-a-student days, and specialized open houses for the Institute of Music and our Honors Programs. Explore your visit options.