Yeshiva Gedolah of Cliffwood

This is 100% religious studies, all the time: Carnegie classifies it as a 'Special Focus: Theological Studies' institution where every bachelor's degree falls under 'Philosophy and Religious Studies.' The curriculum is traditional yeshiva-style—think Talmud, Halacha (Jewish law), and Torah analysis—with no secular coursework. The 18:1 student-faculty ratio (EDsmart) suggests close mentorship, though the tiny enrollment (30 students total) means classes are essentially one-on-one tutorials. Graduation rates are unconventional by mainstream standards: sources cite a 6-year rate between 15-19% (Clema.ai, DecidemyCampus), but this reflects the yeshiva world's fluid timelines, where students often stay for years beyond degree requirements to continue studying.

With 30 students total (Varsity Tutors), this is more intimate than most high schools. The calendar revolves around Jewish holidays and study sessions rather than typical college events—think Purim celebrations and late-night Talmud debates, not football games. There's no mention of clubs, Greek life, or athletics; the focus is purely on religious immersion. Housing appears to be informal (no dorms mentioned), likely with local Orthodox families or shared apartments in Keyport's Jewish community.

Don't expect conventional career metrics here. The 81.8% first-year retention rate (EDsmart) suggests students who enroll are deeply committed, but the 6-year graduation rate of 15-19% reflects the yeshiva model's flexibility—many students prioritize prolonged Torah study over degree completion. Alumni typically become rabbis, teachers, or continue at advanced kollels (post-yeshiva study institutes). Unlike Yeshiva Gedolah Keren Hatorah (a peer institution with 76% graduation), Cliffwood's culture seems to emphasize lifelong learning over formal credentials.

At $8,550 tuition (Scholarships.com), it's far cheaper than most private colleges, though financial aid data is inconsistent. Sources report:

• $6,382 average aid (Niche)
• $8,209 institutional aid bringing net cost to $9,641/year (Kolly AI)
• 67% of undergrads receive aid, averaging $3,480 (College Factual)

The gaps suggest aid packages vary widely, possibly based on need within the Orthodox community. No student loans are mentioned—unsurprising given Jewish law's restrictions on interest.

This isn't just a college—it's a full-immersion yeshiva for students who want to eat, sleep, and breathe Talmud. The lack of secular classes, SAT requirements, or even a conventional graduation timeline makes it radically different from mainstream higher ed. For Orthodox men committed to becoming Torah scholars, the ultra-low student-faculty ratio and $8,550 tuition (vs. $50K+ at many Jewish studies programs) offer intense mentorship at a bargain price. But with just 30 students, it's a cloistered, all-in experience—you're here to join a tight-knight fraternity of lifelong learners, not build a LinkedIn profile.