Hobart and William Smith Colleges

Apply for first-year Apply for transfer

Hobart and William Smith Colleges

Apply for first-year Apply for transfer

Hobart and William Smith Colleges are a future-focused liberal arts and sciences institution led by a faculty of accessible teacher/scholars known for the impact of their research and distinguished by the depth of their mentorship. In the classroom, our faculty will encourage you to explore new topics and learn how to seek solutions to the world’s emerging challenges. During office hours, they’ll get to know you as you are and challenge you to build a course of study that will lead to success after graduation.

You will complement your studies with transformative hands-on learning experiences made possible by HWS’ constellation of on-campus centers for research, action and thought. Through a guaranteed internship (with funding!), a semester abroad, thought-provoking guest lectures, service projects, entrepreneurial incubators and continuous networking opportunities, you will learn to face the future with confidence.

Located in the heart of New York State’s Finger Lakes Region, you will find friendship and build belonging in our relationship-rich residential community while enjoying a stunning backdrop to your college years.

Virtual Tour

Academic Programs

Architecture
Art & Design
Business
Communication
Economics
Education
Engineering
Government/Political Science
Health Science
Liberal Arts
Music
Performing Arts
Research
Science
Social Science
Technology
Visual Arts

Student experience

Athletics
Co-op/Internship Opportunities
Disability Services
Greek Life
Intramural/Club Sports
LGBTQIA Services
On-Campus Housing
Study Abroad
Undergraduate Research

Application information

Find out about requirements, fees, and deadlines

First-year

Hobart and William Smith Colleges are committed to helping all students navigate the college admissions process. Accordingly, we do not charge an application fee, nor do we require standardized test scores.
We welcome your application if you:

Have challenged yourself with a rigorous high school curriculum
Have applied your talents to the betterment of your school and community
Are curious, resourceful, persistent and conscientious

Apply by Nov. 15 for Early Action and Early Decision, Jan. 15 for Early Decision II and Feb. 1 for Regular Decision.

Merit scholarships are available for qualifying students as well as need-based financial aid. Students interested in need-based aid should submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Transfer

Hobart and William Smith Colleges accepts a maximum of two years of college-level work (up to 16 three-credit-hour courses) from other undergraduate institutions. Only courses in which you have earned a C or better, or its equivalent, are considered for transfer credit.

APPLICATION CHECKLIST

Common Application
Final high school transcript
Official college transcript/transcripts from any college ever attended
Academic Evaluation/Recommendation Letter from someone who has taught you in the past 2 years (HS Teacher, College Professor)
Registrar Report from your current college/university
If interested in need-based Financial Aid, please submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

DEADLINES

July 1
Applications due for Fall admission
November 1
Applications due for Spring admission

Additional Information

Imagine spending four years surrounded by fun, smart, inspiring people who will be your adoptive family and constant companions.

Hobart and William Smith Colleges are a place where classmates have your back and cheer you on. Where competition is reserved for the court or playing field (or lake, if you are water-inclined). Where the teams are really good (24 national championships and counting) and the fans are really loud (unapologetically!).

Where there's more opportunity in any given day than you'd ever be able to grab, but where you also can't go wrong. Because all of it is interesting. (And all of it is here for you.)

Whoever you are and whatever your path, you're always in sight of our beautiful lake — the perfect complement to the excitement on the shore and a constant reminder of your inspiring horizons and endless potential.

Quick Facts on the HWS Community:

1,559 undergraduate students hailing from 41 states and 41 countries
9:1 student-faculty ratio and 0% of classes taught by teaching assistants
More than 60% of students study abroad in 50+ locations around the world
80,000+ total hours of community service by HWS students each year
96% of students receive some form of financial or merit aid
Alum network of 22,800+
50+ languages spoken on campus

Visit us

Seneca Lake is a stunning backdrop to all that happens on our campus. Enjoy the view while immersing yourself in our vibrant community.

The Office of Admissions offers tours and information sessions Monday – Saturday as well as special events throughout the year. Browse our offerings and register online here. For additional information, contact the Office of Admissions at (315) 781-3622 or admissions@hws.edu.

“I have been all over this country to speak at colleges and universities, and let me tell you, there is a sense of community at Hobart and William Smith that I have not seen elsewhere.”
John Lewis, Former U.S. congressman (D-GA) and civil rights activist, HWS convocation speaker