You’re ready to take the next step in becoming a Grinnellian.
We’re here to tell you what you need, connect you to resources, and help you with any questions.
Admission to Grinnell is highly selective, and our students come from all different backgrounds. However, while no single factor guarantees admission, there are some characteristics that are undeniably Grinnellian, and can help you stand out from the rest. For example, showing that you’ve taken a challenging, balanced high school curriculum. That you’re ready to explore the world and contribute to the greater good. And that you’re eager to find your place in a supportive, inspiring community. If this sounds like you, request information to get access to additional information about application timelines, scholarships, and the college search process. If you want to start your admission application early, you can submit the Preliminary Application. This is an optional part of the application process that demonstrates interest to Grinnell, as well as allowing you to receive more information about timelines, scholarships, events in your area, and the college search process. Lastly, to complete your application, we’ll need you to submit the Common Application and a few other things.
First-Year Applicants
We’re thrilled that you’re interested in becoming a full-fledged Grinnellian. Let’s talk timelines, scholarships, and everything you can expect when applying to Grinnell. We’re here to help you with the application process and answer any questions you might have.
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Application Requirements
The Common Application. Letters of recommendation. Test scores. Portfolios. Interviews. There’s no minimum GPA or test score to get into Grinnell. We take a look at the full scope of your application to determine if we’re the best fit for you.
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Early Decision Applicants
If we’re your first choice, you should consider applying Early Decision. Not only is the acceptance rate higher than with Regular Decision, but you’ll receive your admission decision months earlier. That’s true whether you apply Early Decision I or Early Decision II.
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Recommendations and Portfolios
What do others think about you? Have you led teams and organizations? You’ll need to submit a couple different letters of recommendation so we can know you better. Auditions and portfolio reviews are not requirements for admission, but for students interested in the arts, you’re welcome to submit your work for us to review. That way we can get the full scope of the talent and passion you’d bring to our community.
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QuestBridge
We’re proud to partner with QuestBridge, a national nonprofit organization that connects high-achieving, underserved high school students with educational opportunities at some of the best colleges and universities in the United States. Every year, QuestBridge provides these opportunities to low-income high school students across the country through its College Prep Scholarship program and National College Match program. We're also honored to participate in Questbridge's three National College Admissions Conferences every year.
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International Applicants
Did you know that close to 20% of our student body comes from outside of the United States, representing almost 50 countries? Here at Grinnell, you can truly meet the world. If you are interested in becoming a part of our global community, you'll need to submit all the standard application requirements along with a few extra things.
