Multicultural Visit Program

Oberlin’s Multicultural Visit Program (MVP) is a community engagement program for high-achieving high school seniors interested in the College of Arts and Sciences.

A collage of Oberlin students

Fall 2023 MVP

In-Person MVP

We are excited to offer two all-expenses-paid fly-in programs to visit Oberlin's campus this fall! In-person MVP will happen from October 26 — 28 and November 9 — 11. The application will open in August.

Program Dates For Students Interested in Application Deadline
October 26 - 28

College of Arts & Sciences

 September 24
November 9 - 11 College of Arts & Sciences

September 24

Program Eligibility

This is a selective program that seeks students serious about Oberlin and their education. High school seniors accepted to the in-person program will participate in an all-expenses-paid trip to campus which includes a host of experiences: a campus tour; class visits; admissions and financial aid workshops; and interactive activities with current students, faculty, and staff. We will also be offering a virtual option in December. To get a sense of previous virtual program offerings, view the 2020 virtual MVP General Schedule of Events.

We encourage applications from students with diverse backgrounds. To be eligible for the program, a student must be from at least ONE of the following backgrounds:

  • American Indian or Alaska Native
  • Asian American
  • Black or African American
  • Hispanic/Latino(a)
  • Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander
  • Low-income
  • First generation in your family to attend college

Participants must also be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or undocumented student currently residing in the U.S. Students applying via Early Decision, to the Posse Scholars Program, or as a QuestBridge Match Scholar to another institution are NOT eligible to attend MVP.

Following the guidance of the CDC and in the interest of the health and safety of our community, COVID-19 vaccinations are required for any prospective student who is participating in an overnight visit on Oberlin's campus. This requirement includes students participating in MVP.

**NOTE: We will continue to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic to determine whether or not our in-person MVP will take place — any change in details and dates will be available on our website and communicated to applicants at least 2-3 weeks prior to the program.**

 

MVP application materials include:

Online Application: If you cannot complete the online application, please contact our office at (440) 775-8411 or multicultural.admissions@oberlin.edu. 

Essay: Be prepared to respond to the following prompts in 300 words or fewer: 

"Since 1835 Oberlin has been a leader in diversity, becoming the first school in the nation to admit African Americans and adopting a policy to admit students regardless of race or gender. Because of this, some students first hear about Oberlin in their history books. How did you first hear about Oberlin and why are you interested in participating in MVP?

High School Transcript: Unofficial copies are acceptable but must contain final grades from Spring 2022. We understand that some semesters were disrupted and some schools changed their grading systems due to COVID-19.

Standardized Test Scores: Oberlin is test-optional. SAT and ACT score submissions will still be accepted, but are not required. We will accept self-reported scores from those students who wish to submit them.

Responsibility Acknowledgement Form: This form must be signed and submitted by the application deadline. You will not be permitted to participate in the program without the submission of this form.

Decisions will be made up to two weeks prior to the program date.  Our in-person visit is a competitive program with limited space, so we encourage students to apply early. Preference may be given to those who do. However, we are happy to be able to offer an in-depth virtual experience to get to know Oberlin in December. 

Oberlin has instituted a number of safety measures to keep our campus and community safe. Current students, faculty, and staff are required to be vaccinated from COVID-19. Oberlin continues to follow local, state, and national health organization guidance in welcoming visitors to campus. COVID-19 vaccinations are also required for any prospective student who is participating in an overnight visit on Oberlin's campus. This requirement includes students participating in MVP.

Visit our Obie Safe website to learn more about Oberlin’s latest COVID-19 policies and vaccination rates.

Why should I attend MVP Oberlin as opposed to a regularly scheduled visit? 
MVP is the only all-expenses-paid visit program hosted by Oberlin College. It provides students the opportunity to learn more about Oberlin College and get a first-hand look at the diverse community and numerous resources that make up the Oberlin experience.  During both the in-person and virtual visit, students take part in a structured program that includes specially arranged open houses, faculty meet and greets, and various other activities. Both the in-person and virtual programs are longer than regularly scheduled events and allow for closer interactions with our faculty, students and staff. 

How many students attend each program?
The number of participants varies depending on the weekend and program type, but in-person programs generally include 20 to 40 students, while virtual programs have no limit.

What should I bring for my visit?
Students should be prepared to sleep on a dorm room floor and should bring a sleeping bag, pillow, towel, and toiletries. We also recommend bringing a warm coat and other accessories for cold weather. 

Should I bring money?
Students are not required to contribute to the cost of their visit. However, students may wish to bring spending money for use at the College’s bookstore or one of Oberlin's many shops and restaurants.

Can my parent or guardian accompany me during the program?
Parents and guardians are welcome to visit Oberlin but are responsible for their own travel and hotel accommodations. They are also welcome to participate in a limited number of activities that will include a meal, but are otherwise required to provide their own meals.

How are flights arranged?
An Admissions staff member will arrange and confirm flights. Participants will be notified of their travel itinerary at least a week prior to leaving for Oberlin.

How will I get to and from the airport?
The student is responsible for transportation to the airport from home or school. Upon arrival at the Cleveland Hopkins Airport, students will be met by an Admissions Counselor and escorted to a shuttle to Oberlin with other participants. At the end of the program, students will be taken by shuttle back to the Cleveland Hopkins Airport. 

Where will I stay once I get to Oberlin?
Participants will be housed in a residence hall with a current student as their host. You will be paired with your host after dinner on the first evening of your visit.

Will my residence hall host be my guide while I’m on campus?
No. Your host will assist you during your visit, but as a current student, the host may have a limited amount of time to spend with you during your stay. Admissions staff will be present throughout the weekend to facilitate your Oberlin experience.

How are meals taken care of during my visit?
All participants will be issued a dining card they can use at any of the dining halls on campus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Outside of visiting classes and/or private lessons, what will I do while on campus?
Depending on the weekend, there are various concerts, speakers, and campus productions that participants can attend as well as open houses that introduce participants to the many resources available to Oberlin College students.

What if I am unable to attend and my ticket was already purchased?
Participants, parents or guardians, and guidance counselors are required to sign a statement of financial responsibility prior to travel arrangements being made. If a participant is unable to attend after a ticket is purchased, the participant will be required to reimburse the Oberlin Admissions Office for the cost of the ticket.

Virtual MVP

An evening virtual program will be offered in December. Join us for interactive sessions that will allow you to explore the vibrancy and diversity of Oberlin, a top liberal arts college that is supportive, intellectually challenging, engaging, and socially active. Connect with current students to learn about the academic and social experience on campus. There is no application for the virtual program. 

MVP Testimonials

Here's what some of our recent participants had to say:

"This program is extremely well thought out and so helpful and fun during this stressful and confusing process.”

"I loved learning about music opportunities for arts and sciences students because I initially feared that as an applicant to the College, I would not have the availability to perform like Conservatory students. However, I learned that there are various opportunities for A&S music students, such as the Arts & Sciences Orchestra, and it increased my interest in Oberlin."

"The program overall [was memorable]. I’ve never participated in a program like this before as a high school student...it was priceless and gave me hope for my path as an ambitious and educated Black male."

"We were given so much information over the 2 days. What I will remember most are the personal stories and honest answers that were shared by both Oberlin teachers, staff and the students. I got the true sense of how people feel about working/studying/living at Oberlin. I can get a lot of information from the website but the personal information shared was invaluable."

Diversity at Oberlin

Diversity at Oberlin

Oberlin is committed to working with campus and community partners to create a climate where all students belong and have equitable opportunities and outcomes. Read more about finding community, support, and belonging at Oberlin.

Download Diversity at Oberlin (PDF)