About
Founded in 1782 as the first college chartered in the sovereign United States, Washington College is a historic liberal arts institution in Chestertown, Maryland, renowned for its tight-knit, collaborative community situated along the scenic Chester River. The college is academically celebrated for its premier programs in environmental science and studies—which leverage the state-of-the-art Semans Griswold Environmental Hall and a 100-acre riverfront campus for hands-on research—as well as its exceptional programs in creative writing, political science, and business. Student life is defined by a vibrant, residential campus culture where students engage in waterfront recreation, varsity athletics, and close-knit mentorship with faculty. Setting the university apart is its rich historical legacy and the Sophie Kerr Prize, the nation's largest undergraduate literary award, which highlights the school’s distinctive commitment to the written word.
Wikipedia:Washington College is a private liberal arts college in Chestertown, Maryland. Founded in 1782 by Episcopal priest William Smith, Wahington College is, by its charter, the oldest college in the state of Maryland, and the 10th oldest college in the United States. The college is named after George Washington, who pledged 50 guineas to the college, served on its board of visitors and governors until 1789, and consented to have the college named in his honor whilst he lived; the only college named after him to have this distinction. It became coeducational in 1891.
Location
Cost & aid
Outcomes
Admissions
Wondering if Washington College is the right fit for you?
SchoolScout builds a personalized college list — reach, match, and safety schools — tailored to your profile, grades, and goals. Get financial aid estimates, scholarship guidance, and deep dives on every school.
Essay prompts
If Washington College asks for supplemental essays, the prompts are in the Common App.
The personal essay is separate: see the Common App essay prompts.
Student Body
Varsity sports
- BaseballMen's
- BasketballMen's · Women's
- Field HockeyWomen's
- GolfMen's
- LacrosseMen's · Women's
- Other SportsCo-ed
- RowingMen's · Women's
- SailingCo-ed
- SoccerMen's · Women's
- SoftballWomen's
- SwimmingMen's · Women's
- TennisMen's · Women's
- VolleyballWomen's
Programs & Earnings
Institutional
Wondering if Washington College is the right fit for you?
SchoolScout builds a personalized college list — reach, match, and safety schools — tailored to your profile, grades, and goals. Get financial aid estimates, scholarship guidance, and deep dives on every school.