Wheaton College

Location: Wheaton, IL (suburban, 25 miles from Chicago)

Size: 2,395 students

Avg percent need-met: 79%

Acceptance rate: 85%

Middle 50% ACT: 26-32

Middle 50% SAT: 1240-1430

Wheaton is a non-denominational Christian institution with a liberal arts focus. Classes and faith are integrated, and Wheaton is one of the most prestigious and academically rigorous institutions of its kind. Classes are small and provide great opportunities for research and internships. Professors earn top marks, and the school boasts a close-knit alumni network. Though rules are rigid, Wheaton has a loving community of driven, passionate people.

Popular majors / known for: Economics, English, Pre-Health, Communications, Biblical Studies, Music

Academic approach: Integrated liberal arts and Christianity; "Christ at the Core" general education requirements

Campus tradition: There’s a ball hosted every year on President’s Day, “Prez Ball,” and most of campus gets dressed up and attends (including President Ryken). It is held in a different location every year and the venue is kept secret until shortly before President’s Day. Past venues have been the Field Museum, the Museum of Science and Industry, and Morgan Manufacturing.

Religiosity

Affiliation: Nondenominational

Mission: "Wheaton College serves Jesus Christ and advances His Kingdom through excellence in liberal arts and graduate programs that educate the whole person to build the church and benefit society worldwide." Read more

Theological requirements: six courses, called the "Christ at the Core" curriculum; mandatory Chapel attendance MWF mornings

    • Notable program: Biblical and Theological Studies seeks to cultivate Christians who are Biblically rooted and theologically formed through a focus on interpretation, application, and research tools and resources.

    • Wheaton describes itself as “a full immersion experience. Learning to love Jesus Christ and His Kingdom happens everywhere from your dorm discipleship small groups to your early morning science lab and from sports fields to the chapel.”

    • Scholarships available based on leadership within faith communities; see all scholarship offerings here

Application Details

Religious Affiliation Important

RD deadline: January 10th

Early Action deadline: November 1st

Supplemental essays: Yes

Application fee: $50

On Common App: Yes

CSS profile: N/A

Interviews: Important

School also featured in: None

Page last updated: February 2021