By Sue Luse

Overview/Location

Wheaton College is located in the affluent city of Wheaton, Illinois, which is approximately 25 miles west of Chicago and Lake Michigan. Downtown Wheaton is within walking distance and there is also a train stop right on campus. Wheaton is a non-denominational Christian College where students must have a Christian commitment. This institution is considered a top tier academic institution. Wheaton is a vibrant community that pursues what it means to love God, one another and the world. Wheaton students mix academic rigor with healthy fun, as evidenced by our 60+ student clubs and 40+ ministry opportunities.

Admissions

• Require two essays
• Pastor recommendation
• Grades and testing are important but they also want to know what sets you apart
• Application asks “Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your personal savior?”
• Interviews are optional but recommended
• 65% of applicants are accepted
• Average GPA is 3.7
• Average ACT scores between 27 – 32
• Have non-binding Early Action deadline of Nov. 1

Financial Aid

Tuition, room and board is $40,720 and they have merit-based aid as well as need-based aid. Wheaton uses the FAFSA as well as their own financial aid form. They recommend using the net price calculator for an estimate.  Sixty percent of students receive some form of financial aid.

Student Body

Of the 2,400 students, 80% are from out-of-state (all over the country) and there is approximately 20% diversity. Females comprise 51% of student body and males comprise 49%. No Greek life. Lots of school spirit – students rally around the mascot Tor Thunder the Wooly Mastodon! Very cohesive community as students are required to live on campus.  Students enjoy good soccer, club hockey, crew, basketball and golf.

Academics

• Challenging academics
• Diversity of thought is welcome
• Four bible classes required
• Big study abroad school
• Global mindset – has Office of Global and Experimental Learning
• Good science and pre med programs
• Strong advising for pre-med
• Other strong programs are Psychology, Biblical Studies, International Studies, and a 3/2 Nursing Program affiliated with Emory, Vanderbilt and John Hopkins
• Wheaton is about developing critical thinking through Christian-based liberal arts

Christian Basis

All students profess the Christian faith and attending Chapel is required. A community covenant must be signed. There is no dress code.  Wheaton’s motto is “For Christ and his Kingdom”.

Who would be happy here?

Students that want to be educated in a Christian environment that takes the life of the mind seriously within a community of believers that want to make the world a better place.