Wesleyan University, along with Amherst and Williams colleges, is one of the historic "Little Three," a trio of prestigious liberal arts schools in New England.
It has about 3,000 students and is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of 16%. Although the school has a high sticker price — the total cost of attendance for undergraduates exceeds $100,000 — Wesleyan is dedicated to helping students attend regardless of financial need. In 2024, Wesleyan eliminated student loans from its financial aid packages, meeting students' demonstrated financial need with grants, scholarships and work-study positions.
Academics are generally characterized by small classes and professors who actively engage with students in programs like the social and political sciences, psychology, and the arts.
The university is also known for producing highly successful alumni: Wesleyan claims playwright Lin-Manuel Miranda, actress Beanie Feldstein, and the creators of the TV shows The White Lotus and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. The Center for the Arts hosts free musical and theater events and has three of its own art galleries. Wesleyan also has the student-run Long Lane Farm, which grows fruits and vegetables and hosts community events like the Pumpkin Fest, complete with free veggie burgers and hot cider.
