Amherst College
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(middle 50% of admitted students)
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👍 Great Fit If You Are:
Curious, self-driven learners
if you love asking big questions and want total freedom in what you study, Amherst’s open curriculum was made for you.
Students who want deep intellectual engagement
if your idea of fun is debating philosophy over dinner or writing about race, gender, and power in small seminars, you’ll thrive here.
Independent thinkers
Amherst is for those who don’t want hand-holding but instead crave the space to chart their own academic path.
Students who want real mentorship
professors will know your name, your interests, and often, your dreams.
Those seeking equity and access
with full-need, need-blind aid (even for internationals), Amherst makes elite education genuinely accessible.
🚨 Not Ideal For:
Students who prefer structured curriculums
if you feel more comfortable with clear graduation requirements and core classes, the open curriculum may feel overwhelming.
Big-school experience seekers
if you want bustling campuses, Division I sports energy, or large lecture halls, Amherst may feel too quiet or intimate.
Social butterflies who love nightlife
the town is charming, but very small. Don’t expect urban energy.
Students looking for pre-professional tracks
Amherst prioritizes broad, critical thinking over job-specific training or vocational majors.
☀️ Weather & Climate
spring
45-65°F (7-18°C)
Mild with occasional rain
summer
65-85°F (18-29°C)
Warm and pleasant
fall
40-70°F (4-21°C)
Cool with fall foliage
winter
15-35°F (-9-2°C)
Cold with snow
Amherst experiences four distinct seasons, characterized by cold winters and mild summers.
☀️Average 197 sunny days per year
👩🎓👨🎓 Demographics
Gender Ratio
Ethnic Distribution
📚 Popular Majors
Campus Area Dining
Nearby Areas
A vibrant area with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Known for its arts scene and diverse dining options.