If you are motivated by ecological thinking and action, sustainability, and social justice, you are already a great fit for Sterling.
Admission to Sterling College opens the door to a transformative and affordable education, valuable work experience, and an eclectic, diverse and socially conscious community.
Sterling College offers admission to both first-time college applicants and transfer applicants. We also have a significant population of student veterans and adult learners at Sterling. Application review at Sterling is an individualized process, characterized by a personal and holistic approach. Affordability is central to the mission of Sterling College.
Admission to Sterling College is competitive. However, students who did not excel in high school or who have taken a non-traditional path to college may gain admission to Sterling by demonstrating work ethic, character, and passion for ecological thinking and action.
- A strong academic record is certainly a good thing, but it is not the most important criteria for admission to Sterling College.
- Sterling College practices test-blind admission. We do not consider standardized test scores during application review.
- We welcome and encourage communication from prospective students at all stages of the application process.
- No student is granted admission to Sterling College until they have completed an interview. Interviews can be conducted in person, over the phone, or via Skype.
- In addition to an online application form, we require a personal essay, two letters of recommendation, and a high school transcript or the equivalent. Transfer students must also submit transcripts from each college or university they previously attended.
Applying for Financial Aid
Sterling College maintains a commitment to affordability and financial access. We work closely with each student and their family to create a financial aid package that meets their individual needs.
Your application for admission also serves as your application for merit-based Sterling College scholarships. There is no need to file additional applications for specific scholarships. The only exception to this rule is the Climate Justice Scholarship, which does require an additional essay.
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is required for all U.S. residents who want to be considered for need-based financial aid. The FAFSA determines eligibility for state and federal financial aid. We also use information from the FAFSA to award need-based Sterling College grants. The FAFSA code for Sterling College is 014991.
Students may also complete the Sterling College Financial Aid Application. This application provides space to describe any aspects of your individual financial situation that may not be captured on the FAFSA.
Navigating the process of applying for financial aid can be complicated. We are here to help. Please feel free to contact us with questions about financial aid at any point during the application process.
Ready to Apply?
Students arrive at Sterling College with a wide variety of personal histories and educational backgrounds. Every prospective student receives personal attention throughout the application process, so that individual circumstances can be taken into account.
Specific guidelines and information for applicants who are transfer students, home schooled students, student veterans, international students, and Vermont students is available by following the links below:
- Transfer Applicants
- Home Schooled Applicants
- Veteran Applicants
- International Applicants
- Vermont Applicants
If you’ve been offered admission to Sterling College, CONGRATULATIONS! Please follow the link below to access registration forms and other important information.
