Hobart and William Smith Colleges

We understand that College is a financial investment in your future. That’s why we offer substantial scholarships and need-based financial grants to students likely to thrive on our campus. Committed students are celebrated for the good work and dedication leading up to their application to Hobart and William Smith. Qualification for merit-based awards is determined through a holistic admissions review process and at the discretion of the Admissions Committee, and will be awarded at the time of admission. Standardized test scores are not required for any scholarship.

Hobart and William Smith is a need-aware institution, and do expect students and their families to contribute toward to cost of their educational expenses each year. Our Office of Financial Aid will work with each individual family to help make HWS an affordable option through generous scholarships and grants.

Merit-based Scholarships

Merit scholarships are awarded at the time of admission and can be as much as $40,000 per year. These scholarships are good for four years, provided the scholarship recipient meets satisfactory academic progress, upholds community standards, and maintains a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA. Any student who is placed on academic or social probation will have their scholarship eligibility reviewed. For a list of all available merit scholarships, check out our Merit Based Awards page.

Need-based Aid

The average need-based package typically equals more than half the annual cost of tuition, room, and board. Highly competitive applicants may be considered for a full tuition scholarship. Awards are based on demonstrated financial need, and will only apply to tuition and fees.

All international applicants who wish to be considered for need-based financial aid must complete either the CSS Profile or the Certification of Finances. All candidates must submit one of the two financial profiles, regardless of financial need. While our preference is to complete the CSS Profile, we recognize that for some students the fee may be a challenge, and will accept the Certification of Finances as an alternative.

CSS Profile Instructions

Designate Hobart and William Smith by using school code 2294. Complete the application using your estimated/actual income and tax information by November 15 for Early Decision I and Early Action candidates; January 15 for Early Decision II candidates; and February 1 for all other applicants. Please note that we do not provide CSS Profile fee waivers.

Financial aid is available for a maximum of eight semesters for those who enroll as first-year students. For those entering with advanced standing (transfers) students, aid is available for the time allotted to complete a degree.