Whittier College

With 52% of students living on campus ([US News](https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/whittier-college-1342/student-life)), Whittier fosters a residential vibe. The college’s 40+ clubs and 10 “societies” (their gender-inclusive take on Greek life) dominate social life ([Clubs Page](https://www.whittier.edu/ose/social)). Students describe the culture as “friendly and inclusive”, with professors who greet them by name on campus ([Niche](https://www.niche.com/colleges/whittier-college/campus-life/)). The Dean of Students office actively promotes equity initiatives, reinforcing the school’s social-justice bent ([Contact Page](https://www.whittier.edu/studentlife/contact)).

Whittier’s 66% six-year graduation rate ([Retention Data](https://www.whittier.edu/academics/ira/rates)) is middling but masks its standout #14 national ranking for social mobility—a testament to success with first-gen?First-generation (first-gen)A student who would be the first in their immediate family to earn a four-year college degree. Many colleges consider this in context. and low-income students ([News](https://www.whittier.edu/news/tue-09232025-900-am/whittier-ranks-no-14-nationally-social-mobility)). Alumni earn $36,427 median income early-career ([Niche](https://www.niche.com/colleges/whittier-college/after-college/)), though the $24,937 median debt load ([Money](https://money.com/best-colleges/profile/whittier-college/)) suggests ROI varies widely.

At $52,877 sticker price ([US News](https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/whittier-college-1342)), Whittier isn’t cheap—but 94% of students receive aid, bringing the average 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 $32,436 ([BigFuture](https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/whittier-college/tuition-and-costs)). The college offers a net price calculator ([Tool](https://app.meadowfi.com/whittier)) and encourages appeals for additional support ([Financial Aid Page](https://www.whittier.edu/financialaid)).

Whittier’s superpower is serving underrepresented students without sacrificing liberal arts rigor. Its #14 social mobility ranking ([News](https://www.whittier.edu/news/tue-09232025-900-am/whittier-ranks-no-14-nationally-social-mobility)) outshines peers, proving accessibility and outcomes aren’t mutually exclusive. The college’s societies system ([Clubs Page](https://www.whittier.edu/ose/social)) offers Greek-like camaraderie without exclusivity, while the 11:1 faculty ratio ([Academics Page](https://www.whittier.edu/academics)) ensures no one gets lost in the crowd. For students who want mentorship over cutthroat competition, Whittier delivers.