Understanding Goshen College
Located in Goshen, Indiana, Goshen College is a private liberal arts college affiliated with the Mennonite Church USA. Founded in 1894, the college offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs known for their emphasis on social justice, peacebuilding, and global perspectives. With its commitment to academic excellence and transformative education, Goshen College attracts students from diverse backgrounds who seek an immersive and purpose-driven college experience.

Key Facts and Figures
- Over 1,000 undergraduate and graduate students
- 30 undergraduate majors and 15 graduate programs
- 12:1 student-faculty ratio
- $30 million in financial aid awarded annually
- 98% of graduates employed or pursuing further education within six months of graduation
Admissions Process
Application Requirements
- Completed Goshen College application
- Official high school transcripts
- Official SAT or ACT scores (optional)
- One letter of recommendation from a high school counselor
- One letter of recommendation from a teacher
- Personal statement
- $30 application fee
Application Deadlines
- Early Decision I: November 15
- Early Decision II: January 15
- Regular Decision: March 1
Admissions Criteria
Goshen College takes a holistic approach to admissions, considering academic performance, extracurricular involvement, leadership potential, and alignment with the college’s values. The admissions committee evaluates each applicant’s unique strengths and experiences to determine their fit for the Goshen community.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Highlight your academic achievements and demonstrate your intellectual curiosity.
- Showcase your extracurricular involvement and leadership qualities.
- Write a compelling personal statement that reflects your passions and aspirations.
- Get to know Goshen College through campus visits, virtual events, and conversations with admission counselors.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Goshen College is committed to making education affordable for all students. The college offers a variety of financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and low-interest loans.
- Over 90% of Goshen College students receive financial aid.
- The average financial aid package is $25,000.
- Goshen College offers merit-based scholarships to exceptional students.
- The college also provides scholarships for students with financial need, underrepresented groups, and students pursuing specific academic programs.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Majors
Goshen College offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate majors, including:
- Accounting
- Art
- Biology
- Business Administration
- Chemistry
- Communication
- Computer Science
- Criminal Justice
- Education
- Engineering
Graduate Programs
Goshen College offers graduate programs in:
- Business Administration (MBA)
- Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Education
- Nursing
- Peacebuilding and Conflict Transformation
Student Life
Campus Life
Goshen College fosters a vibrant and inclusive campus community where students can thrive outside the classroom. The college offers a wide range of clubs, organizations, and activities, including:
- Athletics
- Performing arts
- Student government
- Volunteer opportunities
- Religious and spiritual groups
Residence Life
Goshen College offers on-campus housing options for students, including traditional residence halls, apartments, and houses. The college’s residential learning communities provide students with opportunities to live and learn together in a supportive and engaging environment.
Career Services
Goshen College provides a comprehensive range of career services to help students prepare for success after graduation. The college’s Career Services office offers:
- Career counseling and advising
- Resume and cover letter writing workshops
- Internship and job search assistance
- Networking opportunities
- Alumni connections
Notable Alumni
Goshen College has a proud tradition of producing graduates who make a difference in their communities and around the world. Notable alumni include:
- Howard W. Zinn, historian and author
- John A. Lapp, Nobel Peace Prize nominee
- Sylvia Nafziger, president of Eastern Mennonite University
- Phil Smucker, U.S. Representative for Pennsylvania’s 11th congressional district
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Goshen College known for?
Goshen College is known for its commitment to social justice, peacebuilding, and global perspectives. The college offers a transformative education that empowers students to become ethical leaders and engaged citizens.
2. Is Goshen College a good school?
Yes, Goshen College is consistently ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the United States. The college has received high marks for its academic excellence, faculty engagement, and student support services.
3. What are the admission requirements for Goshen College?
Goshen College considers a range of factors in its admissions process, including academic performance, extracurricular involvement, leadership potential, and alignment with the college’s values. See the “Admissions Criteria” section above for more details.
4. How much does it cost to attend Goshen College?
The total cost of attendance for Goshen College is approximately $40,000 per year. However, the college offers a variety of financial aid options to help make education affordable for all students.
5. What is campus life like at Goshen College?
Goshen College fosters a vibrant and inclusive campus community where students can thrive outside the classroom. The college offers a wide range of clubs, organizations, and activities, as well as on-campus housing options and residential learning communities.
6. What career services are available to Goshen College students?
Goshen College provides a comprehensive range of career services to help students prepare for success after graduation, including career counseling and advising, resume and cover letter writing workshops, internship and job search assistance, networking opportunities, and alumni connections.
7. What are some notable alumni of Goshen College?
Notable alumni of Goshen College include Howard W. Zinn, John A. Lapp, Sylvia Nafziger, and Phil Smucker.
8. How can I apply to Goshen College?
You can apply to Goshen College by completing the online application form on the college’s website. See the “Admissions Process” section above for application deadlines and other requirements.