Earlham College

Campus life revolves around tight-knit communities, with 92% of students living on campus. Over 50 student organizations thrive, including cultural groups like the Black Student Union and Latin and Caribbean Student Association. The Quaker heritage fosters a socially conscious vibe—students describe Earlham as 'a spark for good in the world' in campus tours. Richmond, Indiana provides a quiet backdrop, making campus the hub for activities ranging from Quaker meetings to Division III athletics.

Within six months of graduation, 66% of Earlham alumni are employed—matching the national average for private colleges. The median early-career salary is $36,427, rising to $50,797 at the 10-year mark. The four-year graduation rate is 59%, climbing to 77% by six years. Earlham has been named a 'Best Value' college by Princeton Review for five consecutive years, reflecting its strong ROI for a liberal arts institution.

The sticker price is steep, but Earlham awards over $32 million annually in aid. The average financial aid package is $46,475, bringing the net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. down to $25,431 for most students. A remarkable 79.2% of students receive grants or scholarships, with average annual aid at $42,970. This aggressive aid strategy—coupled with the Princeton Review's 'Best Value' designation—makes Earlham surprisingly affordable for a private liberal arts college.

Earlham distinguishes itself through its Quaker-inspired ethos of collaborative inquiry and social responsibility. Unlike many small liberal arts colleges, it delivers top-tier science programs (notably biochemistry) alongside humanities strengths. The 10:1 student-faculty ratio fosters intense mentorship, while the 'Best Classroom Experience' recognition speaks to its engaging pedagogy. For students seeking a progressive, intellectually rigorous community where they can design their own path—with substantial financial support—Earlham is a hidden gem.