Every student wishing to attend Williams College must complete an admissions application along with an application fee, and submit a high school transcript. According to Williams College, the quality of your high school transcript is the most important factor in the admission evaluation. Successful completion of high-level high school courses such as Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) are held in high regard. Williams College is an academically competitive school, and is considered one of the top liberal arts colleges in the United States.
SAT and ACT scores are evaluated during the admission process, but are not weighed as heavily as the high school transcript. Williams College will only consider the two areas of the SAT with the highest scores, and best composite ACT score. Standardized test scores should be sent to Williams College directly from the testing agency.
Grades and test scores are just the beginning; Williams College looks for well-rounded students. Whether you volunteer at the senior center or hold a part-time job, Williams wants to know about it. Transcripts and test scores may show intellectual aptitude, but employment and community involvement may demonstrate an ability to actively contribute and balance commitments.
Williams College has a high retention percentage, so transfer admission spots are limited. Those interested in transferring must complete a transfer application along with an application fee. Additionally, prospective transfer students should provide information regarding the reason for leaving the current institution of higher learning, and specific information as to why they are seeking admission to Williams College.
A student's ability to pay has no bearing on their admission to Williams College. Williams College has a unique philosophy that students who are accepted should be able to attend regardless of the amount of financial assistance that student may require. Williams College meets 100 percent of the financial need of every student admitted.