Information for Counselors
Wondering if Swarthmore could be a good fit for your students? Use this site to learn more about us and the types of students that thrive in Swarthmore’s academically rigorous – and uniquely supportive – residential community.
We Are Swarthmore.
- A highly selective liberal arts and sciences college in Swarthmore, Pa., just 11 miles outside Philadelphia, the sixth largest city in the United States.
- A community of about 1,640 undergraduate students who come from all over the United States and more than 75 countries.
- A college that offers academic programs ranging from ancient history to engineering to theater, as well as a unique Honors Program that lead to incredible post-collegiate outcomes.
- An institution committed to educational access, as demonstrated by our loan-free financial aid awards, which meet 100% of determined need.
What Makes a ‘Swattie’?
Swarthmore students — or “Swatties” — are deeply curious thinkers and doers constantly asking the “why” and “how” questions of the world around them. They are interested in collaborating across differences to create solutions for the common good. In an effort to help you identify who may be a Swattie, we’ve shared a list of qualities and attributes we elevate in our application review process.
We hope you will encourage your intellectually curious, collaborative students from all backgrounds to consider Swarthmore College, and we look forward to working with you and your students.
