Spelman College

• Overview & Academics

  Spelman College is a prestigious, private liberal arts college located in Atlanta, Georgia. Established in 1881, it is a historically Black college and a global leader in the education of women of African descent. The college is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and social change. Undergraduate programs are rigorous and centered on the arts, sciences, social sciences, and interdisciplinary studies. Spelman offers Bachelor’s degrees across more than 30 major areas including Biology, Psychology, Political Science, English, Economics, and Computer Science.

• Admissions

  Spelman College is highly selective, attracting academically talented students from across the U.S. and internationally. The application process requires submission of a completed application form (via Common or Coalition Application), transcripts, recommendation letters, an essay, and optional standardized test scores (Spelman is test-optional). Interviews and demonstrated commitment to the college’s mission may be considered in the holistic review.

• Cost

  For the academic year, undergraduate tuition and fees are approximately $28,000, with additional costs for room, board, books, supplies, and personal expenses. The total estimated cost of attendance is about $45,000-$50,000 per year. Spelman provides merit-based and need-based financial aid, as well as scholarships and grants to help students afford their education.

• Student Population

  Spelman enrolls about 2,300 undergraduate students, almost all of whom are women. The student body is predominantly African American, with representation from all 50 states and several countries. The college fosters a close-knit community, with a student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 11:1, supporting individualized attention and mentorship.

• Rankings & Distinctions
  1. Consistently ranked the #1 HBCU in the nation by various national publications
  2. Recognized for exceptional graduation rates and alumnae success
  3. National reputation for excellence in STEM, social sciences, and liberal arts education
  4. Classified as a top U.S. liberal arts college and a leading producer of Black women earning doctorates in STEM fields
• Campus & Culture

  Spelman’s urban campus spans 39 acres in Atlanta’s historic West End, adjacent to Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University. The college forms part of the Atlanta University Center Consortium, providing cross-registration and shared resources with partner institutions. Campus highlights include the Spelman Museum of Fine Art, historic residence halls, and programs connecting students to the city’s cultural and professional opportunities.

• Athletics & Traditions

  Spelman participates in NCAA Division III athletics, with a focus on wellness and lifelong fitness rather than varsity sports competition. Traditional events include Founders Day, Spelman-Morehouse Homecoming, and the annual Sisters Chapel Christmas Carol Concert. The Blue and White, Spelman’s colors, are worn proudly at campus events and ceremonies.

• Mission

  Spelman College is dedicated to academic excellence in the liberal arts and sciences and to the intellectual, creative, ethical, and leadership development of its students. Its mission centers on fostering positive social change, with a distinct commitment to the education of women of African descent.

• Leadership & Current Developments

  Spelman’s current president leads a team focused on advancing the college’s vision through new academic programs, campus enhancement projects, and partnerships with industry and alumni. Recent years have seen significant investment in STEM education, global learning, entrepreneurship, and sustainability initiatives.

• Programs
  • Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in over 30 majors
  • Pre-professional tracks in medicine, law, and engineering
  • Dual-degree programs (e.g., engineering with Georgia Tech)
  • Honors Program, study abroad, and research opportunities
  • Certificate programs and professional development offerings
• Campus Life

  Residential life is central to the Spelman experience, with most students living on campus. Cultural events, lectures, leadership summits, and community service are integral aspects of student life. The college prioritizes wellness, diversity, and inclusiveness, and provides resources for student well-being and success.

• Student Organizations
  • Over 80 student-led clubs and organizations focused on leadership, service, the arts, culture, and professional development
  • Greek life includes chapters of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (“Divine Nine” black Greek letter organizations)
  • Unique groups such as the Spelman College Glee Club, Student Government Association, and health/wellness organizations
• Admission Stats
  • Acceptance Rate: Approximately 28-34%
  • Average High School GPA of admitted students: 3.7-3.9 (unweighted)
  • Approximately 9,000 applications received annually
  • SAT/ACT scores are optional, but typically, enrolled students present strong academic profiles
  • High retention and graduation rates, consistently above the national average