Colby-Sawyer College
Acceptance rate
80.1%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$19,125
$36,489 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
858
Student-faculty ratio 10:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
50.4%
4-year; 6-year rate 58.7%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Colby-Sawyer College, located in New London, New Hampshire, is a private liberal arts college known for its strong emphasis on experiential learning and community engagement. Nestled in the picturesque setting of the Lake Sunapee region, the college offers a beautiful campus that provides students with a serene and inspiring environment for their studies. The college's commitment to providing a well-rounded education is reflected in its diverse range of programs, which include majors in health sciences, business, education, and humanities.
The college prides itself on its dedicated faculty, who are not only experts in their fields but also deeply invested in the success and personal growth of their students. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, Colby-Sawyer ensures that students receive personalized attention and mentoring throughout their academic journey. The campus culture is vibrant and inclusive, fostering a sense of community among students, faculty, and staff. Various clubs, organizations, and athletic teams contribute to a lively student life, encouraging participation and collaboration outside of the classroom. The college's commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is also evident in its initiatives and programs, making it a nurturing environment for students to thrive both academically and personally.
Analysis of Key Trends at Colby-Sawyer College
Colby-Sawyer College has experienced notable changes in various metrics over the years, particularly in tuition costs, student enrollment, and graduation rates. One of the most striking trends is the significant increase in tuition fees for undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2023, the cost rose from $37,300 to $47,164, reflecting a staggering increase of approximately 26.6%. This trend mirrors the broader national phenomenon of rising college costs, which has increasingly burdened students and their families.
In terms of student enrollment, Colby-Sawyer College has seen a considerable decline in the number of undergraduate students, dropping from 1,414 in 2013 to just 867 in 2023. This decline of about 38.7% raises questions about the college's attractiveness to prospective students, which may be influenced by the rising costs and shifting demographics in higher education.
Graduation rates present a more favorable picture. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduate students improved from 53.2% in 2013 to 55.7% in 2023. This upward trend indicates that the college is effectively supporting its students in completing their degrees, which is crucial for enhancing the institution's reputation and outcomes for graduates.
Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has fluctuated, with a notable increase in the ratio from 9 students per faculty member in 2018 to 17 in 2022, before dropping back to 10 in 2023. This change may affect the quality of education and individual attention that students receive, further impacting enrollment numbers and student retention.
In summary, while Colby-Sawyer College faces challenges with rising tuition and declining enrollment, improvements in graduation rates and fluctuations in the student-to-faculty ratio suggest ongoing efforts to enhance the educational experience. Balancing these dynamics will be essential for the college's future success and sustainability.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Rural, remote
- Nearest major city
- Worcester, about 80 mi
- Nearest international airport
- Portland International Jetport (PWM), about 90 mi
- Also known as
- Colby-Sawyer
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- Not applicable
- President
- Dean McCurdy (President)
- Phone
- 6035263000
- City
- New London, New Hampshire
- Address
- 541 Main Street, New London, NH 03257-7835
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 82.6%, women 92.9%.
Data insights
Analysis of Colby-Sawyer College Admissions Data
The admissions data for Colby-Sawyer College reveals interesting trends over the years from 2009 to 2023. One notable observation is the fluctuation in acceptance rates for both male and female applicants, which reflects the changing dynamics of the college's admissions process. For instance, the male acceptance rate peaked at approximately 88.3% in 2022, indicating a potentially more inclusive approach during that year, while the female acceptance rate also reached a high of around 95.1% in the same year.
On the other hand, the data from 2023 shows a significant drop in both acceptance rates, with the male acceptance rate falling to about 69.9% and the female rate to approximately 82.2%. This sharp decline could be indicative of a strategic shift in the college's admissions policy, possibly aiming to maintain a balanced enrollment or to improve the overall quality of incoming students.
The enrollment numbers also reflect these trends, with a peak of 508 students admitted in 2013, followed by a steady decline in enrollments until 2023, where only 190 students were accepted. This pattern raises questions about the college's capacity and demand, especially in a post-pandemic world where higher education institutions are re-evaluating their strategies in light of changing student preferences and economic factors.
Furthermore, the number of students deferred each year suggests a careful consideration of applicants, hinting at the college's efforts to ensure that it selects candidates who align with its values and academic standards. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, the trends observed in Colby-Sawyer's admissions data will be critical to understanding how small colleges adapt to the challenges and opportunities presented in the coming years.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
SAT/ACT not considered, even if submitted IPEDS (US Department of Education) has no recent SAT/ACT data for admitted students here. GPA, course rigor, essays and activities matter more.
Data insights
Commentary on Colby-Sawyer College Admissions Data
Colby-Sawyer College's admissions data from 2007 to 2023 reveals a consistent trend in standardized testing among incoming students. Over the years, the percentage of applicants submitting SAT scores has remained impressively high, often exceeding 90%. This suggests that the college maintains a robust applicant pool, with many candidates opting to provide standardized test scores as part of their application.
The SAT scores, particularly in reading and mathematics, have seen a consistent range, with the 25th percentile starting at 430 and the 75th percentile reaching up to 550. This relatively narrow band indicates that while many students meet the baseline academic requirements, there is a considerable concentration of scores that might suggest the college's focus on maintaining certain academic standards. Given the competitive nature of higher education, this could position the college as a desirable option for students who are adequately prepared but might not be at the top end of the academic spectrum.
Moreover, the stability in the number of students submitting scores—from around 205 to 213—demonstrates a steady interest in the institution. This trend aligns with the broader narrative in higher education, where many colleges are grappling with fluctuating applicant numbers and shifting attitudes towards standardized testing. As more institutions adopt test-optional policies, Colby-Sawyer's reliance on standardized testing could present both opportunities and challenges in attracting a diverse student body.
Overall, the data paints a picture of a college that values academic preparedness while navigating the evolving landscape of college admissions. It will be interesting to see how these trends develop, especially in the context of increasing conversations about equity in education and the role of standardized tests in college admissions processes.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 8 in 10
2,129 applicants in 2025, 80.1% admitted
1,705 admitted 424 not admitted Yield 13.0%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business/Commerce, General · Master's22 (0% international)
- Exercise Science and Kinesiology · Master's9 (0% international)
- Nursing Education · Master's5 (0% international)
- Nursing Administration · Master's2 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of Graduation Data from Colby-Sawyer College
The graduation data from Colby-Sawyer College for 2023 reveals some notable trends across various disciplines. One of the most striking observations is the prominence of health-related programs, particularly Registered Nursing, which graduated 77 bachelor degree holders. This aligns with the ongoing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in light of the recent public health challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In addition to nursing, other health-related fields, such as Nursing Science and Respiratory Care Therapy, also show promising graduation numbers, with the latter producing 5 graduates. This trend reflects an increasing societal focus on health and wellness, as well as the growing need for specialized healthcare providers in response to an aging population and heightened awareness of health issues.
Interestingly, while there are graduates in fields such as Business Administration and Psychology, the numbers are significantly lower, with only 20 and 15 graduates respectively. This could indicate a saturated job market in these sectors, leading students to gravitate towards more lucrative fields such as healthcare.
Furthermore, the data indicates a lack of international students graduating in many programs, with only a handful of international graduates in Business Administration and Psychology. This could reflect broader trends in international education, where students may be choosing different institutions or fields of study.
Overall, it appears that Colby-Sawyer College's focus on health-related programs is well-aligned with current job market demands, highlighting the institution's potential to meet the needs of both students and employers in a changing economic landscape.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | - | ||||
| Health/Health Care Administration/Management. | - | ||||
| Medical/Clinical Assistant. | - | ||||
| Pharmacy Technician/Assistant. | - | ||||
| Respiratory Care Therapy/Therapist. | - | ||||
| Surgical Technology/Technologist. | - | ||||
| Public Health, General. | - | ||||
| Nursing Education. | - | ||||
| Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse. | $86,525 | ||||
| Nursing Administration. | $86,525 | ||||
| Nursing Practice. | $86,525 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business/Commerce, General. | - | ||||
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $55,714 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sport and Fitness Administration/Management. | $33,472 | ||||
| Exercise Science and Kinesiology. | $33,472 |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Early Childhood Education and Teaching. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Design. | - | ||||
| Art/Art Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sociology, General. | - | ||||
| Social Sciences, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Studies. | - | ||||
| Environmental Science. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Associate | Under | Master | Doctor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mass Communication/Media Studies. | - |
Students
972 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 29:71 · Freshman retention 76.7%
- Continuing undergraduates 522
- First-year undergraduates 203
- Graduate students 114
- Transfers and others 133
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (858)
Data insights
Analysis of Student Demographics at Colby-Sawyer College in 2023
In 2023, Colby-Sawyer College showcases a diverse student body, with a total of 890 students across various categories including undergraduate freshmen, returning undergraduate students, transfer undergraduate students, and graduate students. Notably, the proportion of female students surpasses that of males in all categories, indicating a strong presence of women in higher education at this institution. For instance, the undergraduate freshman group consists of 186 students, where 61.3% are female and only 38.7% are male. Such statistics are reflective of a broader trend in colleges across the United States, where females have increasingly outnumbered males in recent years.
Moreover, the data reveals a substantial representation of white students within the college, with 145 white freshmen making up a significant portion of the demographics. However, the college could further benefit from enhancing its diversity by attracting larger numbers of underrepresented minorities, as this will enrich the educational experience for all students.
Additionally, the graduate student population consists of 76 individuals, with a striking 81.6% being female. This trend may reflect the growing inclination among women to pursue advanced degrees, which has been observed nationally.
Overall, while Colby-Sawyer College demonstrates positive trends in female enrollment and a commitment to diversity, there remains an opportunity for improvement in attracting a more varied racial and ethnic composition among its students. As higher education continues to evolve, institutions must strive to create inclusive environments that reflect the diversity of society.
Age Composition of Colby-Sawyer College Students in 2023
The age distribution data of students at Colby-Sawyer College in 2023 reveals interesting insights into the demographics of the institution. A significant proportion of the student body is concentrated in the traditional college age range of 18-21 years, with undergraduate females leading in numbers, particularly among the 20-21 age group, where they outnumber male counterparts by a substantial margin. This trend highlights the increasing female representation in higher education, reflecting a broader societal shift towards gender equality in academic pursuits.
As we observe the older age groups, there is a notable decline in enrollment numbers, particularly among those aged 25 and above. This decline could indicate that Colby-Sawyer primarily attracts younger students who may be entering college directly after high school. The presence of a few graduate students in the 22-24 age category suggests that there is some interest in continuing education among those who have recently completed their undergraduate studies.
The absence of significant numbers in the older age brackets could point to a gap in the institution's appeal to non-traditional students. As colleges increasingly aim to cater to diverse demographics, including adult learners and those seeking career changes, Colby-Sawyer may want to consider strategies to attract this demographic.
Overall, the data showcases a vibrant community of younger students, but also calls for reflection on how to engage a wider age range, ensuring that the college remains relevant and accessible to all potential learners in an evolving educational landscape.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
14 in 2025 · 9.0% in 2016
0 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2017
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Colby-Sawyer College
The data from Colby-Sawyer College over the years reveals significant fluctuations in the enrollment of international students at the undergraduate level. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international undergraduate students showed a notable increase, peaking at 11.64% in 2014, which marked a pivotal moment for the institution as it embraced a more diverse student body. This rise reflects a broader trend in higher education where colleges and universities are increasingly recognizing the value of international perspectives in enriching campus life and academic discourse.
However, the numbers indicate a decline in subsequent years, with the percentage dropping to 1.96% in 2023. This decline could be attributed to a variety of factors, including changes in global immigration policies, rising tuition costs, and the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has made travel and international education more challenging. Additionally, the lack of data for graduate international students throughout these years suggests a need for more comprehensive tracking and reporting to understand their enrollment trends.
The increasing presence of international students is beneficial not only for the students themselves but also for the institution, as it fosters a multicultural environment that prepares all students for a globalized world. As Colby-Sawyer College navigates these challenges, it is crucial for the administration to develop strategies to attract and retain international students, ensuring that the college continues to thrive in an increasingly interconnected educational landscape.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$36,489
- Undergraduate tuition
- $19,125
- Room and board
- $17,364
- Graduate tuition
- $15,001
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose -51% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 34%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$45.5M
Expenses$36.9M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Great Northeast Athletic Conference
Great Northeast Athletic Conference: basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 48 | 59 |
| Soccer | 36 | 24 |
| Baseball | 43 | - |
| Basketball | 21 | 16 |
| Tennis | 18 | 13 |
| Field Hockey | - | 30 |
| Lacrosse | - | 25 |
| Skiing | 7 | 8 |
| Volleyball | - | 14 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 36 | 30 |
| Soccer | 28 | 16 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Basketball | 11 | 15 |
| Field Hockey | - | 24 |
| Lacrosse | - | 24 |
| Tennis | 9 | 8 |
| Skiing | 5 | 7 |
| Volleyball | - | 12 |
| Equestrian | - | 10 |
| Swimming | 2 | 6 |
| NCAA Division III without football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 57 | 46 |
| Soccer | 23 | 22 |
| Baseball | 40 | - |
| Volleyball | 10 | 17 |
| Basketball | 13 | 12 |
| Field Hockey | - | 24 |
| Lacrosse | - | 22 |
| Tennis | 8 | 11 |
| Swimming | 5 | 13 |
| Skiing | 6 | 7 |
| Equestrian | - | 11 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Dartmouth CollegeHanover · 25.6 mi
U.S. News #12
-
University of New Hampshire-Main CampusDurham · 55.8 mi
U.S. News #109
-
University of Massachusetts-LowellLowell · 61.8 mi
U.S. News #148
-
Middlebury CollegeMiddlebury · 72.8 mi
Liberal Arts #19
-
University of Massachusetts-AmherstAmherst · 76.2 mi
U.S. News #59
-
Amherst CollegeAmherst · 76.9 mi
Liberal Arts #2
-
Williams CollegeWilliamstown · 78.6 mi
Liberal Arts #1
-
Worcester Polytechnic InstituteWorcester · 79.0 mi
U.S. News #73
-
University of New EnglandBiddeford · 79.9 mi
U.S. News #262
Data insights
Here are some notable colleges and universities near Colby-Sawyer College:
-
Dartmouth College - Ranked 18th in the 2024 US News rankings, Dartmouth is a prestigious Ivy League institution located in Hanover, New Hampshire. It offers a comprehensive education with a strong emphasis on research and liberal arts.
-
Middlebury College - This highly regarded liberal arts college is ranked 11th and is known for its beautiful campus and strong programs in international studies and languages.
-
Amherst College - With a ranking of 2nd, Amherst is one of the top liberal arts colleges in the United States. It is known for its rigorous academics and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
-
Williams College - Ranked as the number one liberal arts college, Williams is known for its strong focus on undergraduate education and a low student-to-faculty ratio.
-
Tufts University - This university is ranked 40th and is located in Medford, Massachusetts. It is renowned for its programs in international relations, medicine, and the arts.
-
Harvard University - As one of the most prestigious universities in the world, Harvard is ranked 3rd and offers a diverse range of programs across various fields of study.
These institutions represent some of the finest educational opportunities available in the region, each with its unique strengths and specialties.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Colby-Sawyer College
The crime data from Colby-Sawyer College reveals a noteworthy trend in campus safety over the years. Starting from 2013, the average crime rate per 1,000 students was recorded at 46.53, peaking in 2014 at 71.11. However, a significant decline in the crime rate is observed from 2016 onwards, with the lowest rate of 22.27 documented in 2023.
This considerable decrease in crime rates over the years might be attributed to several factors, including enhanced security measures, increased awareness, and community engagement. For instance, the implementation of educational programs focused on drug and alcohol awareness could effectively reduce the number of drug and alcohol-related arrests.
Interestingly, while serious offenses such as assault and robbery are concerning, the absence of reported incidents of gun-related arrests in the recent years is encouraging. This reflects broader national trends where many colleges are actively working towards creating safer environments.
The data also emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring and proactive measures to maintain and improve campus safety. Colleges must remain vigilant and responsive to emerging challenges, including mental health issues and incidents of violence. Overall, the downward trend in crime rates at Colby-Sawyer College is a positive indication of the institution's commitment to fostering a safe learning environment for its students.
For more insights on crime rate calculations, you can refer to this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Colby-Sawyer College include John Quincy Adams Brackett (36th Governor of Massachusetts), Nate Corddry (Actor in Harry's Law and Mom) and Benjamin Ide Wheeler (President of the University of California 1899–1919).
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John Quincy Adams Brackett 1842–1918
36th Governor of Massachusetts
-
Nate Corddry 1977–
Actor in Harry's Law and Mom
-
Benjamin Ide Wheeler 1854–1927
President of the University of California 1899–1919
-
John H. Bartlett 1869–1952
Former governor of New Hampshire, lawyer
-
Cabell Breckinridge 1788–1823
Kentucky lawyer and politician
-
Marilla Ricker 1840–1920
Suffragist and New Hampshire's first female lawyer
-
William H. Gilmore 1839–1910
Adjutant General of the Vermont Militia
-
William W. Stickney 1899–1980
US Marine Corps major general and lawyer
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.