
8.11
Edline Index
5.3
2,719
2,719 undergraduate
1903
Private Liberal Arts College
A spirit of creative interdisciplinary exploration defines the intellectual life at Skidmore College, where the guiding motto "Creative Thought Matters" empowers students to forge connections across the arts, sciences, humanities, and social sciences within a single, unified liberal arts curriculum. Founded in 1903 by Lucy Skidmore Scribner with the vision of cultivating both "mind and hand," Skidmore's approach blends rigorous academic inquiry with hands-on, experiential learning, encouraging students to apply imaginative thinking to real-world challenges. This dynamic scholarly environment is situated on an 890-acre campus in Saratoga Springs, New York, a historic and culturally vibrant city that serves as a natural extension of the college's creative ethos. Within this close-knit community of approximately 2,700 undergraduates representing more than 60 countries, leadership is forged through a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, undergraduate research, and a residential experience that integrates learning into every aspect of campus life.
Personalized mentorship is the hallmark of the Skidmore experience, where a supportive 7.8-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio ensures that students work closely with dedicated teacher-scholars across more than 40 majors and 50 minors. Undergraduate education is deeply connected to high-impact learning opportunities, including collaborative faculty-student research, internships, and study abroad programs that prepare students to engage with a complex, globalized world. Over 76% of class sections enroll fewer than 20 students, creating an intimate environment for intellectual exchange and discovery. For international applicants, Skidmore offers need-based financial aid and is committed to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students who apply for aid on time. Through this blend of creative thinking, academic rigor, and a welcoming residential community, Skidmore graduates emerge prepared not only to excel professionally but to approach every challenge with imagination and purpose.
Policy Type
Need-aware
GoodNeed-aware universities may consider financial need in the admission process for international students. Aid may still be available, but finances can affect admission outcomes.
Compare with other policy types
| Ranking Organization | Position | Year |
|---|---|---|
| US News National Liberal Arts Colleges | #37 | 2026 |