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.
Is Sterling Right for You?
Are you ready to roll up your sleeves and dig in to the hard work of living and learning in a community devoted to ecological thinking and action?
Great! You’ve met the most important requirement for admission to Sterling College.
Here are some more requirements you should know about before you submit your application:
- You need a strong work ethic and an open mind.
- You need to be hungry to learn, and ready to imagine creative ways in which humanity can relate to the natural world.
- You need to be open to the possibility that the most important lessons you learn might occur far beyond the walls of a classroom.
We accept applications submitted via the Common Application or through our own Sterling College online application referred to as the Self Service Center. An application is considered complete when we have received the following items:
- A Completed Application Form – see links below
- College Level Writing Sample: An 500-800 word essay, short story, or opinion piece you are proud of and highlights your skills, creativity, and personality. Feel free to submit something you have written for a class assignment.
- High School Transcript; Official required before enrollment
- College Transcripts (if applicable); Official required before enrollment
- Dual enrollment or Advance Placement (AP) scores (if applicable)
- Admission Interview: A chance for the admission team to learn more about your goals, passions, and hope for your education. Interviews can happen by phone, via video chat, or in person.
- Portfolio/Samples of work and/or resume; essays, projects, videos, photography, or websites you have created. We want to get to know the real you! (optional, but highly encouraged)
- Letters of Recommendation (optional)
Sterling College practices test-blind admission. We do not consider standardized test scores during application review.
Apply Now for Spring 2023 & Fall 2023 with Common App
Admission Deadlines
Fall 2023
Sterling College accepts rolling admission, submit your application today!
Spring 2023
Sterling College accepts rolling admission, however, we need all materials by December 15, 2022 to be prepared for the start of the Spring semester. Submit your application today!
Transfer Students
Transfer students may apply and receive a decision on a rolling basis.
Please note that if you are applying via the Common App, you will see a January application deadline for transfer students. However, you can still submit the Common App at anytime – we will receive your application and contact you to confirm that it went through.
Visiting or Continuing Education Student
If you’re interested in attending a class at Sterling College as a non-matriculated student, check out our array of Continuing Education classes. When available, it’s also possible to audit or enroll as a visiting student. Please contact us to explore this option.
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.
We believe that all people deserve to be treated with respect and dignity, and that our community is strengthened through diversity. Sterling College is committed to creating and maintaining a community which:
- Is free from racism, sexism, homophobia, and other prejudices
- Is free from the weight of hate, discrimination, and fear
- Promotes and fosters physical and emotional safety
- Fosters civil and respectful dialogue
Feeling stuck or confused?
Email, call or visit and we’ll do whatever we can to help you!
We are always available to help!
Sterling College is a member in good standing of the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC), and adheres to the NACAC Statement of Principles of Good Practice.
