Greensboro, NCprivate nonprofitbennett.edu
Bennett College, a small historically Black women's college in Greensboro, NC, offers an intimate liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on leadership and social justice. Known for its tight-knit community and ethical focus, Bennett struggles with financial sustainability but provides notable support for student retention and engagement.
Bennett College's admissions process reflects its mission as a small, supportive HBCU for women. Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. vary widely by source—from 33.6% (PrepScholar) to 98% (ThoughtCo)—suggesting fluctuating selectivity. Mid-range SAT scores (820-1060) and ACT scores (14-21) are typical for admitted students, though Test-optionalA policy where you choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you don't, the rest of your application carries more weight. policies may apply. The college emphasizes Holistic admissionsA review that weighs the whole applicant — grades, essays, activities, and context — rather than relying on test scores and GPA alone. over strict cutoffs, seeking students aligned with its values of integrity and civic engagement.
Bennett structures its curriculum around three divisions: Arts/Humanities/Education, Science/Technology, and Social/Behavioral Sciences. While engineering programs are listed (chemical, electrical, industrial, mechanical), these likely represent partnerships or concentrations rather than full ABET-accredited degrees. The college emphasizes 'ethical standards and principles' rooted in New Testament values, with particular strengths in transforming students into leaders through civic engagement and social justice frameworks. International collaborations exist, including student/faculty exchange programs.
Life at Bennett revolves around its identity as a close-knit women's college with HBCU traditions. The honor code mandates 'respectful, honest, and ethical behavior,' creating a structured environment. While specific clubs aren't detailed, the college fosters leadership development through campus activities. Instagram reels and Reddit threads suggest an active culture blending academics with events like cultural fests and hackathons—though some content may conflate Bennett College (NC) with Bennett University (India). The Greensboro location provides urban opportunities while maintaining a residential campus feel.
Bennett's 86% first-year retention rate outperforms peer institutions (75% average), signaling strong initial student support. However, 6-year graduation rates lag at 39%, with Pell Grant recipients graduating at just 17% versus 42% for non-Pell students. Post-graduation outcomes are concerning: median earnings six years out are $23,200—well below national averages. These metrics reflect both the college's mission of serving underrepresented populations and ongoing institutional challenges.
With a Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. around $20,928 after average aid packages of $19,149, Bennett works to offset its $16,000 tuition through grants and scholarships. However, the significant gap between sticker price and post-graduation earnings raises questions about return on investment. The college provides a net price calculator, emphasizing transparency in financial planning for its predominantly low-income student body.
Bennett distinguishes itself as one of only two all-women HBCUs nationwide, offering a rare combination of Black sisterhood, liberal arts rigor, and ethical leadership development. Its 86% retention rate demonstrates exceptional student support early on, though persistence to graduation remains a challenge. The college's intimate scale (no graduate programs) allows personalized attention, while its Greensboro location connects students to civil rights history and contemporary activism. Ideal for students seeking a values-driven, community-focused HBCU experience—with eyes wide open about post-graduate economic realities.