Sarah Lawrence College vs Bennington College

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key academic differences between Sarah Lawrence College and Bennington College?

  Sarah Lawrence College emphasizes a highly individualized, tutorial-based approach with a strong focus on interdisciplinary study. Students work closely with faculty advisors to design their own curricula. Bennington College, on the other hand, is known for its 'field work' term and a commitment to self-directed learning through 'Plans' of study, which are revised annually. Bennington's curriculum is also highly flexible, encouraging students to explore multiple areas before specializing.

• How do the campus cultures of Sarah Lawrence and Bennington compare?

  Both colleges foster a progressive and creative environment. Sarah Lawrence is known for its close-knit community and emphasis on social justice and the arts. Bennington has a reputation for being unconventional and experimental, with a strong emphasis on the visual and performing arts, and a history of political activism. Both schools are known for being LGBTQ+ friendly.

• What is the typical student body like at Sarah Lawrence versus Bennington?

  Sarah Lawrence attracts students who are independent thinkers, intellectually curious, and value close relationships with faculty. The student body is diverse in terms of background and interests. Bennington students are often described as artistic, independent, and self-motivated, with a strong interest in the arts and social change. Both schools have a relatively small student body, fostering a close-knit community.

• What are the strengths of Sarah Lawrence's academic programs?

  Sarah Lawrence excels in its individualized approach to education, allowing students to design their own majors and work closely with faculty mentors. Its strengths lie in the humanities, arts, and social sciences. The college's writing program is particularly well-regarded, and its location near New York City provides access to numerous cultural and professional opportunities.

• What are the strengths of Bennington's academic programs?

  Bennington is renowned for its arts programs, particularly in dance, drama, and visual arts. Its emphasis on self-directed learning and 'field work' term provides students with practical experience and the opportunity to explore their interests outside of the classroom. The college's commitment to social justice and environmental sustainability is also a significant strength.

• How does the cost of attendance compare between Sarah Lawrence and Bennington?

  Both Sarah Lawrence and Bennington are private institutions, and the cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is generally comparable. However, financial aid packages can vary significantly based on individual circumstances. It's recommended to check the net price calculators on each college's website to get an estimate of your potential costs.

• What are the career services like at Sarah Lawrence and Bennington?

  Both colleges offer career services to help students with internships, job searches, and graduate school applications. Sarah Lawrence's location near New York City provides students with access to a wide range of internship and networking opportunities. Bennington's career services focus on helping students connect their academic interests with professional goals, often leveraging the 'field work' term for practical experience.

• How do the locations of Sarah Lawrence and Bennington differ?

  Sarah Lawrence is located in Bronxville, New York, a suburban community just north of New York City. This proximity provides easy access to the city's cultural and professional resources. Bennington is located in Bennington, Vermont, a more rural setting with access to outdoor recreational activities and a close-knit community.

• What is the application process like for Sarah Lawrence and Bennington?

  Both colleges require the Common Application. Sarah Lawrence typically requires an interview, while Bennington offers interviews but does not require them. Both colleges consider a student's academic record, essays, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities. Bennington often places a greater emphasis on a student's portfolio or creative work, given its strong arts focus.

• Which college is a better fit for me: Sarah Lawrence or Bennington?

  The best fit depends on your individual learning style and interests. If you thrive in a highly structured, tutorial-based environment with a strong emphasis on the humanities and arts, and value close proximity to a major city, Sarah Lawrence might be a good choice. If you are independent, self-motivated, and interested in a flexible curriculum with a strong focus on the arts and practical experience, and prefer a more rural setting, Bennington could be a better fit.