Grid of many faces, including Oberlin students, faculty, and alumni

There are many colleges. There is only one Oberlin.

Oberlin offers one of the world’s great undergraduate educations, and we have a long tradition of educating top scholars and musicians. Here, students pursue multiple passions and interests within a supportive, collaborative community. We focus on undergraduate teaching, hands-on research projects, culturally immersive study away experiences, and world-class music opportunities. For over 100 years, Oberlin alumni have gone on to earn more PhDs than graduates of any other liberal arts school. And in nearly every career field, our graduates are making an impact and improving our world.

An Oberlin education is extraordinary, and each person experiences it differently.

Learn about the College of Arts and Sciences
Browse majors, minors, and concentrations

Apply to Oberlin

Oberlin students demonstrate both academic achievement and a commitment to creating a better world. A strong high school performance in a full range of challenging courses is essential. While we look for students who have demonstrated high academic achievement, we also seek individuals who care about the world, who believe they can make it a better place, and who have the courage to try. If that describes you, we encourage you to apply.

First-Year Deadlines for Fall 2021

  • Regular Decision:  January 15

Apply online using either the Common App or Coalition Application.

Application Requirements

First Year

If you’re attending college for the first time and live in the United States, this application is for you.

View requirements for first-year applicants »

Transfer & Visiting

Earned some college credits already? If you’ve been in a degree-seeking program or have earned more than 30 semester hours of college credit, this is probably the application you want.

View requirements for transfer applicants »

International

If you live outside the United States, this is the application for both first-years and transfers.

View requirements for international applicants »

Get to Know Oberlin

Guided campus tours have resumed, and we’ve created a variety of virtual visit options to help you get to know Oberlin from a distance.

Visit and Connect

Additional Resources to Explore

Majors, Minors, & Concentrations

We encourage you to study broadly, learn deeply, and draw connections across over 50 areas of study ranging from biology to creative writing to computer science and more.

Student Life

Oberlin's vibrant campus community is full of opportunities to explore, connect, and learn in an environment that prioritizes inclusion and respect.

Costs & Aid

We’re committed to meeting 100 percent of the demonstrated financial need of every admitted student.

Students sketch while sitting in the grass by a scenic pond.
The Arboretum provides a quiet place to draw, read, or just enjoy the view. Photo credit: Vu Nguyen '23

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