Lafayette College
Location: Easton, Pennsylvania
Established: 1826
Enrollment: ~2,700
Admit Rate: 28% (Class of 2028)
Yield Rate: 28%
Endowment: $1 Billion
Academic Calendar: Semester
School Colors: Maroon and White, #910029
School Mascot: Leopards
Undergraduate Tuition and Fees: $66,496 USD (2025–26 Tuition)
Typical SAT Scores: Reading and Writing 630–710, Math 650–740
Motto: Veritas Curat (The Truth Cures)
Notable: Rare combination of a liberal arts college with a dedicated, ABET-accredited Division of Engineering.
A historic rival to Lehigh, offering a rare blend of Engineering and Liberal Arts.
1. Quick Facts Snapshot
• Location: Easton, Pennsylvania
• Founded: 1826
• Enrollment: ~2,700
• Admit rate: ~30–31% (Class of 2028)
• Yield rate: 28%
• Endowment: ~$1 Billion
2. Why This School Fits the Little Ivy Profile
• Lafayette offers the classic small-college experience, featuring brick buildings and a hill overlooking a river. It stands out with a fully accredited engineering division, making it a "Little Ivy" for those interested in technical fields.
3. Selectivity & Admissions
• Approx admit rate: 28%
• Selectivity trend: Moderately selective; growing reach in the Mid-Atlantic region.
• SAT/ACT ranges: SAT 1310–1460
4. Academic Strengths
• Signature programs: Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Chemical); Economics; Government.
• Faculty ratio: 10:1
• Key differentiator: Engineering in a Liberal Arts Context. Engineers here study abroad and take art history, creating "socio-technical" leaders.
5. Outcomes
• Salary or placement overview: High starting salaries due to engineering/finance focus.
• Alumni influence: Strong in Pennsylvania industry and New York finance.
• Where grads typically go: Engineering firms, Wall Street banks, and technical consulting.
6. Campus Culture
• Traditions: The Rivalry. The Lafayette vs. Lehigh football game is the most-played rivalry in college football history (since 1884).
• Social environment: Greek life is popular and influential; the campus is social and spirited.
• Notable athletics or arts strengths: Division I athletics (Patriot League); very strong school spirit.
7. How It Compares
• [Lafayette vs. Bucknell vs. Lehigh]
• [Lafayette vs. Holy Cross: Patriot League Peers]
8. FAQs
• Can I switch into engineering later?
It is possible but curriculum-heavy, so starting early is better.
• Is Easton a good town?
It is a town on the rise with a revitalized food scene and proximity to NYC/Philly (1.5 hours).
• Is Greek life required?
No, but it is a major part of the social calendar.