St. John's College (MD)
The Great Books College
St. John’s was founded in 1696, making us the third oldest college in the U.S. — and we remain the most distinct.
At St. John’s, students share a common curriculum where they explore 200+ revolutionary books over the last 3,000 years. Students learn from history’s most significant thinkers: Plato, Shakespeare, Einstein, Austen, and Du Bois, to name a few. In class discussions, we probe world-changing literature, philosophy, math, science, and more, culminating in the interdisciplinary Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts. With a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio, the college regularly ranks among the best for undergraduate teaching and most accessible faculty.
Four years here prepare you for anything, thanks to the rigor and breadth of the learning. The careers of tomorrow call for exactly what St. John’s cultivates: self-driven inquiry and analysis, fearless examination of complex issues, interdisciplinary problem-solving, excellence in writing, and confidence in self-expression. Over 70% of Johnnies attend graduate school; we are ranked #1 for students who pursue PhDs in the humanities and political science, and #15 for students who enroll at the nation’s top law schools.
St. John’s was founded in 1696, making us the third oldest college in the U.S. — and we remain the most distinct.
At St. John’s, students share a common curriculum where they explore 200+ revolutionary books over the last 3,000 years. Students learn from history’s most significant thinkers: Plato, Shakespeare, Einstein, Austen, and Du Bois, to name a few. In class discussions, we probe world-changing literature, philosophy, math, science, and more, culminating in the interdisciplinary Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts. With a 7:1 student-to-faculty ratio, the college regularly ranks among the best for undergraduate teaching and most accessible faculty.
Four years here prepare you for anything, thanks to the rigor and breadth of the learning. The careers of tomorrow call for exactly what St. John’s cultivates: self-driven inquiry and analysis, fearless examination of complex issues, interdisciplinary problem-solving, excellence in writing, and confidence in self-expression. Over 70% of Johnnies attend graduate school; we are ranked #1 for students who pursue PhDs in the humanities and political science, and #15 for students who enroll at the nation’s top law schools.
Accepts first-year applicationsMid-AtlanticPrivateSuburbanSmall (2,000 and under)Co-Ed
Academic programs
- Science
- Liberal Arts
- Music
- Economics
- Government/Political Science
- Social Science
- Psychology
Student experience
- Athletics
- Co-op/Internship Opportunities
- Disability Services
- Intramural/Club Sports
- LGBTQIA Services
- Military/Veteran Services
- On-Campus Housing
Application information
First-year
The St. John’s application process is different. The Admissions Committee (both admissions officers and faculty) does consider traditional factors, such as your academic record, letters of recommendation, and, if you think they will lend weight to your application, your test scores (which are optional for most students). Most importantly, the committee focuses on your essays, and the committee reads the essays of every single applicant to St. John’s before making an admissions decision.
We welcome all serious applicants so we charge no application fee.
We welcome all serious applicants so we charge no application fee.
Transfer
Applicants who have attended a college and received college credit AFTER completion of their high school/secondary education should select "Transfer" as your student type. Each year of the curriculum at St. John’s is required so transfer students begin as freshmen and must complete four years on campus. Generally, credits from other colleges and universities do not count toward a degree from St. John’s College.
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Additional information
St. John’s is committed to making college affordable for all students seeking a Great Books education. Our financial aid process breaks the mold because it’s friendly, transparent, and honest. We have one of the most affordable tuitions of any top liberal arts college in the United States: $39,356. We also provide generous need-based financial aid and merit scholarships to further reduce costs. On average, students pay $27,146 to attend St. John’s. We understand that everyone’s financial situation is different. As a result, we give you personal attention and individualize the process. Don’t hesitate to contact the Financial Aid Office with questions or concerns. We will guide you.
Visit us
Visiting is the best way to learn about St. John’s. You can explore campus, take a tour with a current student, attend a class, talk with a faculty member, meet with an admissions officer, eat in the dining halls, and even stay overnight. Whether you choose to visit the Annapolis campus, the Santa Fe campus, or both, you’ll find Johnnies are friendly and eager to share their experience with you. Virtual visit options are also available.
“A school for the intellectual explorer.”