Grinnell College
About
Grinnell College, a highly selective liberal arts institution in rural Iowa, is nationally renowned for its rigorous academics and a deeply ingrained commitment to social responsibility. Its strongest academic programs span the social sciences, sciences, and humanities—including popular majors like economics, biology, and computer science—all of which students navigate through a distinctive "Individually Advised Curriculum" that eliminates general education requirements in favor of customized, self-directed study. The campus culture is highly collaborative, intellectually curious, and self-governing, fostering a diverse, socially conscious student body that enjoys a vibrant, cooperative residential life. Additionally, Grinnell stands out for its immense financial resources, which fund extensive undergraduate research, fully paid internships, and a generous need-blind admission policy that meets 100% of demonstrated need without student loans.
Wikipedia:Grinnell College is a private liberal arts college in Grinnell, Iowa, United States. It was established as Iowa College in 1846 by a group of Congregationalists from New England. It has an "open curriculum," which means students need not follow a prescribed list of classes. The college's 120-acre (49 ha) campus includes several listings on the National Register of Historic Places.
Location
Cost
Admissions
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Essay Requirements
Grinnell 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 Grinnell 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.