Whittier College
About
Located just outside Los Angeles, Whittier College is a private liberal arts institution celebrated for its diverse student body as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and its deeply personalized approach to undergraduate education. The college is highly regarded for its strong programs in business administration, kinesiology, and biology, and is particularly famous for the Whittier Scholars Program, which allows students to design their own customized, interdisciplinary majors. On campus, students experience a tight-knit, collaborative culture shaped by active NCAA Division III athletics and distinctive local "societies" that offer a unique, community-focused alternative to traditional national Greek life. With a 12:1 student-to-faculty ratio, Whittier ensures undergraduates benefit from direct faculty mentorship and hands-on research opportunities rarely found at larger universities.
Wikipedia:Whittier College is a private liberal arts college in Whittier, California, United States. Founded by Quakers in 1887, it is a federally-designated Hispanic-Serving Institution. As of fall 2025, it had 797 undergraduate and graduate students. Whittier athletic teams compete in NCAA Division III.
Location
Cost
Admissions
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Essay Requirements
Whittier College accepts the Common Application. All Common App schools require the personal statement essay. Some schools also require supplemental essays — check the school's page on Common App for current prompts and word limits.
See the current Common App essay prompts for the personal statement options.
Outcomes
Student Body
Programs & Earnings
Institutional
Wondering if Whittier College is the right fit for you?
Scout builds a personalized college list — reach, match, and safety schools — tailored to your profile, grades, and goals. Get financial aid estimates, scholarship guidance, and deep dives on every school.