Bennett College

• Overview & Academics

  Bennett College is a private, historically black liberal arts college for women located in Greensboro, North Carolina. Established in 1873, the college empowers women through a rich tradition of academic excellence, leadership development, and social justice advocacy. The college offers a broad array of academic programs leading to a Bachelor’s degree, with strengths in the arts and sciences, social sciences, and professional studies. Emphasis is placed on personalized education, mentorship, and leadership preparation in a supportive and nurturing environment.

• Admissions

  Bennett College practices a holistic admission process, considering academic records, standardized test scores (optional for some applicants), recommendations, personal essays, and extracurricular involvement. The college welcomes applications from students who aspire to engage in rigorous learning and contribute to the college’s legacy of leadership and service.

• Cost
  • Tuition (2023-2024): Approx. $18,513 per year
  • Room & Board: Approx. $10,358 per year
  • Comprehensive Fee (includes technology and activity fees): Approx. $1,600 per year
  • Bennett College is committed to affordability, providing significant institutional aid and scholarships to eligible students.
• Student Population

  The college enrolls about 200-300 undergraduate students, making it one of the nation’s smallest women’s colleges. The intimate campus fosters close relationships between students, faculty, and staff, allowing for a personalized and engaged college experience.

• Rankings & Distinctions
  • One of only two historically black colleges for women in the United States.
  • Named among top liberal arts colleges in the Southeast region, particularly for service and social mobility.
  • Member of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF).
• Campus & Culture

  Bennett College sits on a picturesque 60-acre campus in the heart of Greensboro, close to cultural landmarks and the wider UNC-Greensboro community. The campus features historic and modern facilities, including an iconic chapel, science center, and residential halls. Traditions and the legacy of activism are deeply woven into campus life.

• Athletics & Traditions
  • Bennett College participates in intercollegiate and intramural sports, focusing on student fitness, wellness, and recreation.
  • Signature campus traditions include Queen’s Tea, Honor Day, Founders’ Day, and the historic White Breakfast.
  • Bennett’s mascot is the Belle, symbolizing tradition, strength, and community.
• Mission

  Bennett College’s mission is to provide a transformative liberal arts education that prepares women to lead with purpose, integrity, and a commitment to social justice. The college develops intellectually curious, ethically responsible, and globally aware women who are eager to impact the world.

• Leadership & Current Developments
  • Led by President Suzanne Elise Walsh, Bennett College has focused on financial stabilization, program innovation, and student support in recent years.
  • The college has rebuilt accreditation status and expanded partnerships, with ongoing investment in campus facilities and programs.
  • Recent campaigns have emphasized enrollment growth, alumnae engagement, and women’s leadership in STEM, arts, and entrepreneurship.
• Programs
  • Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in majors such as Biology, Chemistry, Business Administration, Education, Journalism and Media Studies, Psychology, Political Science, Social Work, and Interdisciplinary Studies.
  • Minors and pre-professional tracks in areas like Pre-Law, Pre-Medicine, and Women’s Studies.
  • Special programs: Global Studies, Leadership Development, Civic Engagement, Honors Program.
• Campus Life

  Bennett offers a close-knit community experience where every student is known by name. On-campus living is enriched by mentoring, residence life programs, and events celebrating sisterhood, service, and culture. The college’s location provides access to internships, community engagement, and city resources.

• Student Organizations
  • Over 30 student-led clubs and organizations, including Student Government Association, gospel choir, dance and modeling troupes, National Society of Black Engineers, campus newspaper, and social justice groups.
  • Active chapters of sororities such as Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Zeta Phi Beta, and Sigma Gamma Rho.
  • Students participate in leadership, service, career development, and recreational activities each semester.
• Admission Stats
  • Acceptance Rate: Approximately 70-80%
  • Average High School GPA: 2.8-3.4
  • Test Scores: SAT/ACT optional (average SAT 850–990, ACT 16–19 for those submitting)
  • Application Deadlines: Rolling admission with priority for fall applicants