Whittier College campus
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Whittier College

Whittier, CA · Private · 764 students

Nearly half of Whittier College students participate in varsity and intramural sports on its 75-acre suburban oasis.

Acceptance rate

80.8%

Avg net price

$25,757

after aid

Next deadline

Nov 15

ED

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the Whittier College admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

Whittier College admitted 80.8% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That means most students who apply get in. Your job is to meet the requirements and apply on time.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what Whittier College actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

What they value

Discovery, Research, Customized Learning

Discovery, research, and the creation of knowledge is embedded into a Whittier College education.

The Whittier Scholars Program allows students to combine courses across disciplines to create a customized major that fits their goals.

Verified from whittier.edu and whittier.edu and whittier.edu and whittier.edu and whittier.edu and whittier.edu and whittier.edu.

Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • Next deadlineNovember 15, 2026 (ED)

Verified from whittier.edu.

The essays

Here are the supplemental essay prompts.

The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.

  • Express the importance of art in your life presently and the place you believe it will hold in your future.

    Up to 600 words

  • Express the importance of music in your life presently and the place you believe it will hold in your future.

    Up to 600 words

  • What is a unique leadership experience you've had? Who is someone that has positively influenced your leadership style? What was an important lesson you learned about being a good leader?

    Up to 500 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from whittier.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $63,664. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $25,757.

Whittier College offers merit-based scholarships for all international applicants and preliminary scholarship awards through Instant Decision interviews, with financial aid counselors available for support.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $59,492.

Verified from whittier.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Business Administration, Management and Operations17% of degrees
  • Biology, General13% of degrees
  • Psychology, General10% of degrees
  • Social Sciences, General9% of degrees
  • Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness9% of degrees
  • Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services4% of degrees

Campus life

Here’s the feel of the place.

Engage with faculty, participate in a Division III sport, then explore Uptown Whittier, a Tuesday here.

Students live in residence halls, dine on campus, and explore the vibrant Uptown Whittier area within Southern California.

Suburban

Quick answers

What do people ask about Whittier College?

How hard is it to get into Whittier College?
Very hard. Whittier College admits 80.8% of applicants. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
When is the Whittier College application deadline?
The next deadline is November 15, 2026 (ED).
How much does Whittier College cost?
The list price is about $63,664. After aid, families pay $25,757 on average.
Is Whittier College worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $59,492 ten years after enrolling. 62% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.

Launching soon

Ask Spike anything about Whittier College.

Spike answers from Whittier College’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.