Haverford vs Middlebury: Which College Is Right for You?

Choosing a college is a decision that can shape the course of your life. With so many options out there, it can be difficult to know which school is the best fit for you. In this article, we will be comparing two highly regarded institutions, Haverford vs Middlebury, to help you determine which one is the right choice for you.

Location: Where Are Haverford vs. Middlebury Located?

Both Haverford and Middlebury are located in the northeastern United States, but they are in different states. Haverford is located in suburban Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, while Middlebury is located in rural Vermont. The two schools have vastly different settings, with Middlebury providing a more rural and remote campus experience while Haverford offers a more suburban feel with easy access to nearby cities like Philadelphia.

Despite their different locations, both Haverford and Middlebury are known for their beautiful campuses. Haverford’s campus is characterized by its Georgian architecture and sprawling lawns, while Middlebury’s campus is nestled in the Green Mountains and features stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, both schools are committed to sustainability and have implemented various initiatives to reduce their environmental impact.

Campus Setting: How Do Haverford vs. Middlebury Compare?

Haverford and Middlebury both have beautiful campuses, but they differ in their overall atmosphere. Haverford’s campus is known for its historic architecture and green spaces, while Middlebury is known for its stunning mountain views and natural beauty. Both campuses offer a peaceful and tranquil environment, making them great places to study and learn.

Campus Size: Which College Has a Bigger Campus?

When it comes to campus size, Middlebury is the larger of the two schools. Middlebury’s campus spans over 350 acres, while Haverford’s campus covers just over 200 acres. However, Haverford’s smaller campus offers a more intimate and tight-knit community, which some students find appealing.

In addition to campus size, Middlebury and Haverford also differ in terms of their location. Middlebury is located in a rural area of Vermont, surrounded by mountains and forests. Haverford, on the other hand, is located just outside of Philadelphia, offering students easy access to the city’s cultural and social opportunities.

Another factor to consider when comparing these two colleges is their academic programs. Middlebury College is known for its strong programs in languages, international studies, and environmental studies. Haverford, on the other hand, is known for its rigorous academic program and emphasis on undergraduate research opportunities.

Student Body: How Do the Student Populations Differ at Haverford vs. Middlebury?

The student populations at Haverford and Middlebury are different in several ways. Haverford is a liberal arts college with a little over 1,400 students, while Middlebury is a larger university with around 2,800 undergraduate students. Haverford has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while Middlebury’s student-to-faculty ratio is 9:1. Both schools attract bright and engaged students, but Haverford tends to have a more politically active student body, whereas Middlebury has a reputation for being outdoorsy and adventurous.

Another notable difference between the student populations at Haverford and Middlebury is the diversity of their student bodies. Haverford has a higher percentage of students of color, with 44% of the student body identifying as students of color, compared to Middlebury’s 24%. Additionally, Haverford has a higher percentage of international students, with 14% of the student body coming from outside of the United States, compared to Middlebury’s 9%. This diversity adds to the richness of the student experience at both schools but in different ways.

Admissions Criteria: What Are the Requirements for Getting into Haverford vs. Middlebury?

Both Haverford and Middlebury are highly selective schools, and getting into either one requires a strong academic record. Haverford’s acceptance rate for the class was just 14%, and Middlebury’s acceptance rate for the same year was 13%. In addition to strong academics, both schools consider extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations in their admissions decisions.

However, there are some differences in the admissions criteria for Haverford and Middlebury. Haverford places a strong emphasis on demonstrated interest, meaning that they want to see that you have a genuine interest in attending their school. This can be shown through campus visits, attending information sessions, and contacting admissions representatives. Middlebury, on the other hand, places more weight on standardized test scores, particularly the SAT or ACT.

It’s also important to note that both schools have a holistic admissions process, meaning that they take into account the whole person, not just their grades and test scores. They want to see that you are a well-rounded individual with a variety of interests and experiences. So, while strong academics are important, don’t forget to highlight your extracurricular activities, community service, and any other unique experiences that make you stand out.

Academic Programs: What Majors Are Offered at Haverford vs. Middlebury?

Haverford and Middlebury both offer a wide range of academic programs, but there are differences between the two schools. Haverford offers majors in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences, as well as a few interdisciplinary programs. Middlebury, on the other hand, is known for its strengths in environmental studies, international studies, and languages. Both schools offer rigorous academic programs that prepare students for a wide range of careers and further study.

Additionally, Haverford has a unique program called the Quaker Consortium, which allows students to take classes at nearby colleges. This program expands the range of academic opportunities available to Haverford students. Middlebury also offers a variety of study abroad programs, allowing students to immerse themselves in different cultures and gain valuable international experience. Both schools prioritize academic excellence and provide students with the resources and support they need to succeed.

Faculty and Class Size: How Do the Teaching Styles Differ at Haverford vs. Middlebury?

The faculty at Haverford and Middlebury are both highly respected and accomplished in their fields. However, the two schools have different teaching styles. Haverford’s small class sizes and low student-to-faculty ratio mean that students have more opportunities for one-on-one interactions with their professors. Middlebury’s larger class sizes mean that students have fewer opportunities for these types of interactions, but they do benefit from a wider range of course offerings.

Another difference between the teaching styles at Haverford and Middlebury is the emphasis on research. Haverford places a strong emphasis on undergraduate research, with many opportunities for students to work closely with faculty members on research projects. Middlebury also values research, but the focus is more on faculty research and scholarship.

Additionally, the teaching styles at Haverford and Middlebury differ in terms of classroom discussions. Haverford’s small class sizes allow for more in-depth and interactive discussions, with students encouraged to participate and share their ideas. Middlebury’s larger class sizes can make it more challenging for students to participate in discussions, but the school does offer smaller discussion sections for some courses to facilitate more engagement.

Research Opportunities: Which College Offers More Research Opportunities?

Both Haverford and Middlebury offer research opportunities for undergraduate students, but the scope and availability of these opportunities differ between the two schools. At Haverford, research is a key component of the curriculum, and students have the opportunity to work on projects with faculty members in all academic departments. Middlebury also offers research opportunities, but they tend to be more focused on specific areas of study, such as environmental studies and language immersion.

Furthermore, Haverford has a dedicated research center that provides funding and resources for students to conduct independent research projects. This center also hosts workshops and seminars to help students develop their research skills. Middlebury, on the other hand, has a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research, with many opportunities for students to collaborate with faculty members and students from different departments.

It is worth noting that both colleges have a strong track record of producing successful research projects and publications. Haverford students have been published in prestigious academic journals, while Middlebury students have won awards for their research in fields such as environmental studies and international relations. Ultimately, the choice between these two colleges will depend on the individual student’s interests and goals for their undergraduate education.

Extracurricular Activities: How Do the Clubs and Organizations Compare at Haverford vs. Middlebury?

Both Haverford and Middlebury offer a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports teams to clubs and volunteer organizations. Haverford’s small size and close-knit community mean that students often develop deep connections with their peers through these activities. Middlebury’s larger size means that there are more opportunities for students to get involved, but they may not have the same level of intimacy and connection as they would at Haverford.

Despite the differences in size, both Haverford and Middlebury have a strong emphasis on community service and social justice. Many of the clubs and organizations at both schools focus on issues such as environmental sustainability, racial justice, and LGBTQ+ rights. Students at both schools are encouraged to use their extracurricular activities as a way to make a positive impact on their communities.

Another notable difference between the two schools is the availability of resources for extracurricular activities. Haverford’s smaller size means that there may be limited funding and resources for certain clubs and organizations. Middlebury, on the other hand, has a larger budget and more resources available for student groups. This can lead to more elaborate events and activities, but may also create a more competitive environment for funding and resources.

Sports Programs: Which College Has a Better Sports Program?

When it comes to sports, Middlebury has a widely recognized athletic program, with over 30 varsity sports. Haverford also has a strong athletic program, with a variety of varsity and club sports available. Both schools prioritize sportsmanship and teamwork and offer exceptional facilities and resources for student-athletes.
However, Middlebury has a particularly strong reputation in winter sports, with its ski team consistently ranking among the top in the country. The college also has a state-of-the-art ice rink and a dedicated winter sports facility, which attracts top athletes from around the world.

On the other hand, Haverford has a unique focus on alternative and non-traditional sports, such as ultimate frisbee, quidditch, and parkour. The college encourages students to explore new and unconventional sports and provides resources and support for students to start their own clubs and teams.

Housing Options: What Are the Different Housing Options Available at Haverford vs. Middlebury?

Haverford and Middlebury offer a variety of housing options for their students. Haverford has a mix of traditional residence halls and apartment-style living, while Middlebury offers a mix of dormitory-style living, apartment-style living, and residential clusters. Both schools prioritize creating safe and comfortable living environments for their students and offer plenty of support and resources for those living on campus.

Additionally, Haverford and Middlebury both offer housing options for students with specific needs or preferences. Haverford has gender-neutral housing options, as well as housing for students with disabilities. Middlebury offers substance-free housing options, as well as language houses where students can live with others who are studying a particular language. These specialized housing options allow students to live in communities that align with their values and interests, and create a more inclusive and diverse campus environment.

Cost of Attendance: How Much Does It Cost to Attend

Both Haverford and Middlebury are expensive schools, and the cost of attendance can be a major factor in deciding which one to attend. Haverford’s tuition and fees for the academic year were just over $68,000, while Middlebury’s tuition and fees were just over $65,300. However, both schools offer generous financial aid packages, and the majority of students receive some form of financial assistance.

It’s important to note that the cost of attendance at Haverford and Middlebury goes beyond just tuition and fees. Students also need to consider the cost of room and board, textbooks, and other expenses. At Haverford, the estimated cost of attendance for the academic year is over $86,500, while at Middlebury it’s over $83,900. These additional costs can add up quickly and should be factored into any decision about attending either school.

Despite the high cost of attendance, both Haverford and Middlebury offer a range of resources to help students manage their finances. This includes financial literacy programs, work-study opportunities, and access to emergency funds. Additionally, both schools have committed to meeting the full demonstrated financial need of all admitted students, meaning that students who qualify for financial aid will receive enough assistance to cover the full cost of attendance. This can make attending either school more affordable for students from low-income backgrounds.

Financial Aid Options: What Types of Financial Aid Are Available at Haverford and Middlebury?

Both Haverford and Middlebury offer a variety of financial aid options, including loans, grants, and scholarships. Haverford’s need-based financial aid program covers 100% of the demonstrated need, and the school also offers merit-based scholarships. Middlebury also offers need-based financial aid and merit-based scholarships, as well as a unique program that guarantees financial aid for international students.

In addition to the financial aid options mentioned above, Haverford and Middlebury also offer work-study programs to eligible students. These programs provide part-time employment opportunities on campus, allowing students to earn money to help cover their educational expenses while gaining valuable work experience.

Furthermore, both schools have financial aid counselors available to assist students and their families in navigating the financial aid process. These counselors can provide guidance on completing financial aid applications, understanding financial aid awards, and exploring additional funding options.

Alumni Networks: How Do the Alumni Networks Compare at Haverford and Middlebury?

Haverford and Middlebury both have highly engaged and active alumni networks. Haverford’s alumni network is known for its commitment to social justice and community service, as well as its strong ties to the college. Middlebury’s alumni network is known for its opportunities for networking and career development, as well as its commitment to environmental sustainability.

That concludes our comparison of Haverford and Middlebury. Both schools offer a top-notch education and a supportive community for students. The best way to decide which school is right for you is to visit each campus, talk to students and faculty members, and get a sense of the overall atmosphere. Good luck with your college search!

It’s worth noting that both Haverford and Middlebury have alumni networks that extend far beyond the United States. Haverford’s alumni can be found in over 70 countries, and the college has a strong presence in Europe and Asia. Middlebury’s alumni network is similarly global, with graduates working in fields ranging from finance to education to the arts. No matter where you go in the world, you’re likely to find a fellow Haverford or Middlebury alum who can offer advice, support, and a sense of community.