January Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Wheaton offer January (spring semester) admission?
Enrolling a freshman class each year at a selective college involves what might be called "precision guesswork." From the almost 4,000 applications Wheaton receives, we assess the admissibility of each candidate and then predict what percentage admitted students will choose to become part of Wheaton's 420-member incoming class in the fall. Since we have a number of students whom we would really like to accept but cannot accommodate for September, we plan to enroll about 50 first-year students in January when residential spaces open on campus as a result of students studying overseas.
If I begin in January, will I graduate with my class?
Most students who start in January graduate with their class. Between the combination of possible Advanced Placement credits and transfer credits (from fall or summer school), graduating with your class in May of 2012 is easily achievable. Students at Wheaton also may choose to take more than the four credits per semester that are required. This practice allows you to make up credits.
Where will I live?
Housing is available on campus. Because of the shift between students living on campus and those studying away, housing options vary. Most January students live together in double or triple rooms, while others may room with transfer students or other students currently enrolled at Wheaton.
Will there be an orientation program when I arrive?
Absolutely! You and your parents will be joined by other spring semester enrollees when you arrive for orientation on Sunday, January 18, 2009. This program helps new members of the community familiarize themselves with Wheaton resources and each other before the semester begins. In the meantime, we hope to see you at one of our April open houses for accepted students.
Can I study abroad and earn credit before arriving at Wheaton?
For students interested in spending the fall semester abroad, consider New York University's program in London. This program offers a specifically designed first-term experience for accepted students from Wheaton College, Hamilton College and New York University (NYU) who will return to their home institutions at the end of their term in London. All the academic credits successfully earned at NYU will transfer to Wheaton seamlessly. Enrollment is limited and is therefore available on a first-come, first-served basis. This program is wholly administered by NYU; representatives from NYU attend Wheaton's open houses for admitted students in April to answer any questions you might have. Neither financial aid or merit scholarships are available for the NYU London program. Finally, Wheaton expects students to be in good academic and social standing upon the completion of the NYU London semester. Students who do not meet these standards may place enrollment in jeopardy.
Can you help me identify internships or academic programs for this fall?
Yes! Advisors in the Filene Center for Work and Learning will be glad to assist you. You may decide to work, study, volunteer or intern. Whatever your inclination, our staff will work with you to identify a program that will engage you throughout fall. You should contact the advisors below for help with any ideas you may have already or for help developing a plan. In addition, the Registrar's Office is happy to consult with you regarding appropriate college courses that will transfer to Wheaton if you earn college credits elsewhere.
-- The Filene Center for Work and Learning assists students who wish to explore experiential opportunities, such as internships, volunteer service and work. Call (508) 286-8211 for more information.
-- The Registrar's Office consults with students about the Wheaton curriculum, course selection and other academic services. Contact: Associate Registrar Liz Ziroli, (508) 286-3856, ziroli_liz@wheatoncollege.edu.
Is it possible for me to enroll in September?
Your offer of admission is solely for the spring term of 2009. You may decide instead to be on the wait list for the fall semester of 2008, but in doing so you will relinquish your guaranteed place in the Class of 2012. Several hundred students will choose to remain active on the wait list, and students will be notified if a space becomes available by mid-July.
Can I take classes at Wheaton during the fall before I arrive in the spring?
Students accepted for the spring term of 2009 cannot enroll in any courses at Wheaton during the fall prior to their entrance. However, students can take courses at other accredited institutions and apply any credits earned toward their degree at Wheaton. (All classes must be pre-approved by the Registrar's Office.)
Can I defer my enrollment to Fall 2009?
Your admission is for January 2009. Depending on enrollment trends, you may defer until the following September or January 2010. These requests must be submitted in writing to the Office of Admission, or email us at admission@wheatoncollege.edu.
How can I learn more about January admission and meet other accepted January students?
Come to one of our open houses for accepted students to learn more about Wheaton and to attend a reception with students whom you will join next year. You will have a chance to meet faculty, talk with advisors from the Filene Center, the Registrar's Office and NYU's London program to begin laying out a plan for the fall.
Are there other ways that I can connect with January students?
Yes! Stay tuned for more information about our online bulletin board for January students and a special campus visit day in August where you will participate in a series of activities designed to help you get to know each other and make plans for your arrival in January 2009.