When you enroll at Reed College, you become part of a community that values intellectual inquiry and high standards of scholarly practice, creative thinking, and engaged citizenship. But we don't believe in ivory towers. That's why we've waived application fees and implemented a test-blind policy.
We're looking for students who are seriously curious, community-minded, and ready to engage in conference-style classrooms. We value diversity of thought and welcome students from all philosophical and cultural backgrounds. If you are passionate about exploring hard questions and never settle for easy answers, Reed might be the place for you. Start your journey by learning how to apply today.
Steps to Apply to Reed College
Reed College accepts applications through the Common Application and the Coalition for College platforms. Learn about how to apply and decide which application is right for you.
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Learn about application deadlines: We offer multiple deadlines if you are applying early decision, early action, or regular decision. View important dates and deadlines.
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Identify your student applicant type: First-year, transfer, international, and visiting applicants will apply using one of the two application platforms. If you are an auditing or non-degree student, contact Reed’s admission office.
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Choose your application platform: All first-year applicants can choose to complete either the Common Application or the Coalition for College Application. If you are a transfer or visiting applicant, you must apply using the Common Application.
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Gather important information and materials: What you’ll need to submit—transcripts, test scores, recommendations—depends on your student type. Review what’s required and make sure you have everything you need to complete your application.
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Create an account and fill out your application: Both types of applications require a Reed writing supplement. Review your answers carefully and then submit!
Start Your Common ApplicationStart Your Coalition for College Application
For more specific information about your application process and admission requirements, select the type of student you are below.
Student Applicant Types and the Interview Process
Apply via the Common Application or the Coalition for College platforms. Learn about early decision (ED), college credit for high school courses, and more.
Use the Common Application to apply to Reed. Understand the transfer process and explore our FAQ section.
Find information about the application process, from required documents to the visa process.
Applicants with Special Circumstances
Explore application information for unique situations such as homeschooling, waitlisting, deferrals, and more.
One of the best ways to show interest in Reed is to interview in person or virtually. Learn about the process.
Important Dates and Deadlines
| Early Decision I | Early Decision II | Early Action | Regular Decision | |
| Applications Due | November 1 | December 20 | November 1 | January 15 |
| Decisions Mailed | December | February | February | April 1 |
| Reply Date | Within 2 weeks of admission | Within 2 weeks of admission | May 1 | May 1 |
| Deadline to Complete Optional Interview | November 15 | December 31 | December 1 | February 1 |
Reed Writing Supplement
As part of your application, Reed College requests a writing supplement of up to 500 words. The writing supplement may be submitted via the Common or Coalition Application or emailed to [email protected]. In your supplement, we ask that you address the following question:
For one week at the end of January, Reed students upend the traditional classroom hierarchy and teach classes about any topic they love, academic or otherwise. This week is known as Paideia, after the Greek term signifying “education”—the complete education of mind, body, and spirit. What would you teach that would contribute to the Reed community?
Testing Requirements
Reed will neither require nor use testing results from the SAT or ACT in our admission review. Results of additional tests, such as Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) may be submitted for Reed credits upon enrollment.
Taking either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System assessment (IELTS), or Duolingo is strongly encouraged for international students who do not speak English at home or who attend a school where the language of instruction is not English. The average internet-based TOEFL score for international students entering Reed is 110.
Reed College test code
TOEFL 4654
Learn about Financial Aid
Have questions about how much a Reed education will cost? We meet 100 percent of the demonstrated financial need of all admitted students, international or domestic, for all four years.
Statement of Nondiscrimination
Reed College prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, marital or familial status, military status, veteran status, genetic information, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, status as a parent, family relationship, or any other category protected by law. The college’s Title IX policy and procedures may be found on our Title IX web page. Inquiries may be directed to the college's Title IX Coordinator by email at [email protected], by phone at 503-517-4842, or on campus in Eliot 108A. Inquiries may also be directed to the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Office for Civil Rights, US Department of Education. Read the full Notice of Nondiscrimination.