Bennington College Reports Record application Numbers, Welcomes class of 2029
BENNINGTON, VT – August 31, 2025 – Bennington College has announced a meaningful surge in applications for the 2025-26 academic year, ushering in its most competitive admissions cycle to date. The college welcomed a substantial number of early applications from prospective students eager to join its individualized, rigorous academic environment.This year’s applicant pool totaled 2,740 students, resulting in an acceptance rate of 37% – a new benchmark for selectivity in Bennington’s history. The increase reflects a growing demand for the college’s unique educational model,centered on student-designed plans of study and a low 9:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Bennington also implemented a new late decision application round, responding to the needs of students finalizing plans during gap years or later in their senior year, which yielded an additional 240 applications and ultimately enrolled 15 students.
founded in 1932, Bennington College is a leader in experiential, progressive education. Students engage in intensive coursework, internships, and self-directed projects, culminating in a capstone experience known as the Field Work term. The academic year officially begins on September 2 with Convocation, followed immediately by the commencement of Fall courses.
