Applying to Olin
Admission Statement
Olin College will enroll approximately 85 top students from all over the world for the Class of 2016. The quality of students we seek will be outstanding by traditional measures (course rigor, test results and achievement); however, we place equal importance on personal character, creativity, risk-taking, unusual life experiences and an entrepreneurial spirit.
Olin College strives for gender balance and a student body that is multidimensional, representing a broad range of cultural, economic and geographic backgrounds. Olin College is approved by the INS to issue I-20 forms (student visas) and seeks a multicultural presence on campus by enrolling students with significant international experience. US Permanent Residents and Green Card holders are also eligible for admission. While our application process and requirements are the same for all students, more detailed information for non-US citizens may be found here.
High School Preparation and Standardized Testing
We encourage students to challenge themselves as much as possible academically, and to enroll in the most rigorous courses available at their schools. A strong calculus and physics foundation is essential to success at Olin College and therefore a requirement for admission.
| High School Coursework | Standardized Testing* |
|---|---|
|
- Science Subject of your choice |
NOTE: We realize that there are SAT and ACT test dates in December- please do not stress about this! We will accept scores from the December SAT and ACT test dates; scores should arrive from the testing companies about 3 weeks later. However, we strongly encourage you to complete all of your standardized testing prior to December so that we can begin reviewing your application as soon as possible after the deadline.
AP and IB Credit
Although we are very interested in students who have taken Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate and/or other advanced coursework, we do not offer any credit for AP or IB tests (regardless of your score) or college-level classes.
2011-12 Application Timetable
| December 2011 | Complete all standardized testing |
| January 1, 2012 | Deadline for submitting electronic Common Application, Olin Supplement, application fee and mailing supporting materials |
| Early February 2012 | Applicants notified if they have achieved "Candidate" status |
| February 17-18 February 24-25 March 2-3, 2012 |
Candidates' Weekends 1, 2 and 3 |
| Late March 2012 | Notification letters mailed and posted online |
| May 1, 2012 | National Candidates' Reply Deadline |
The Two-Part Application Process
The admission process at Olin College is unique. For a student to gain admission to Olin, he or she must complete both the Common Application with Olin Supplement and, if selected, attend Candidates’ Weekend.
Read more about the Olin Application process.
Download required forms.
