St. John's College (MD)

Apply for first-year Apply for transfer

St. John's College (MD)

Apply for first-year Apply for transfer

The Most Contrarian College in America
We are often called "the most contrarian college in America." Or "the most rigorous college in America." Or "the most intellectual college in America." No matter how you you define us, St. John's College is unlike any other. Our students chare a common curriculum centered on reading and discussing 200 of the greatest books in history. Students learn directly from Plato, Austen, Einstein, Woolf, and Du Bois, to name a few. Instead of lectures, all classes are discussion-based exploring philosophy, literature, history, science, music, language, politics, and more. The shared curriculum and rigorous classes unite students in a common intellectual endeavor. Instead of choosing a major, all students graduate with Bachelor of Arts in the Liberal Arts. With a 7:1 student to faculty ratio, the college ranks #5 for best classroom experience and #9 for best undergraduate teaching. Our welcoming community has fewer than 900 students on two campuses: one in Annapolis, Maryland, and the other in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Virtual Tour

Academic Programs

History
History of Math & Science
Language
Liberal Arts
Music
Philosophy

Student experience

Co-op/Internship Opportunities
Croquet
Intramural/Club Sports
On-Campus Housing
Rowing
Sailing

Application information

Find out about requirements, fees, and deadlines

First-year

The St. John’s application process is different. The Admissions Committee (both admissions officers and faculty) does consider traditional factors, such as your academic record, letters of recommendation, and, if you think they will lend weight to your application, your test scores (which are optional for most students). Most importantly, the committee focuses on your essays, and the committee reads the essays of every single applicant to St. John’s before making an admissions decision.

We welcome all serious applicants so we charge no application fee.

Transfer

Applicants who have attended a college and received college credit AFTER completion of their high school/secondary education should select "Transfer" as your student type. Each year of the curriculum at St. John’s is required so transfer students begin as freshmen and must complete four years on campus. Generally, credits from other colleges and universities do not count toward a degree from St. John’s College.

Additional Information

St. John’s is committed to making college affordable for all students seeking a Great Books education. Our financial aid process breaks the mold because it’s friendly, transparent, and honest. We have one of the most affordable tuitions of any top liberal arts college in the United States: $35,000. We also provide generous need-based financial aid and merit scholarships to further reduce costs. On average, students pay $24,800 to attend St. John’s. We understand that everyone’s financial situation is different. As a result, we give you personal attention and individualize the process. Don’t hesitate to contact the Financial Aid Office with questions or concerns. We will guide you.

Visit us

Visiting is the best way to learn about St. John’s. You can explore campus, take a tour with a current student, attend a class, talk with a faculty member, meet with an admissions officer, eat in the dining halls, and even stay overnight. Whether you choose to visit the Annapolis campus, the Santa Fe campus, or both, you’ll find Johnnies are friendly and eager to share their experience with you. Virtual visit options are also available.