For international students, Colby College requires proof of English language proficiency. Typically accepted forms of proof include:

1. TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A minimum score of 100 on the iBT.
2. IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum score of 7.0.
3. Duolingo English Test: A minimum score of 115 is accepted.

However, if the student has attended high school in an English-speaking country or has completed coursework in English, they may be exempt from providing these test scores.

Apply - Colby College Admissions

Colby College is a private liberal arts college located in Waterville, Maine. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious liberal arts colleges in the United States, known for its strong academic programs, commitment to undergraduate research, and emphasis on community engagement. Here's an overview of the college:

Course Specialties

Colby College offers a range of liberal arts disciplines with particular strengths in the following areas:

1. Environmental Studies and Science

   • Colby College has a robust Environmental Studies program, benefiting from its proximity to natural resources and a campus-wide commitment to sustainability. The Environmental Science department offers interdisciplinary programs focusing on issues like climate change, ecology, and sustainability.

2. Government and Politics

   • The Government department is renowned for its studies in political science, offering both theoretical and practical insights into governance, policy analysis, and international relations. Colby’s Washington, D.C. internship program provides real-world political experience.

3. Economics

   • Colby has a strong Economics department, emphasizing global economic systems, behavioral economics, and public policy. The college’s Goldfarb Center for Public Affairs helps prepare students for careers in government, international organizations, and business.

4. Literature and Writing

   • Colby’s English department is noted for its diverse range of literature studies, with a focus on creative writing, American literature, and post-colonial literature. The creative writing program is well-regarded, with students regularly publishing their work.

5. Visual Arts

   • The Art Department offers a variety of courses in studio arts, visual culture, and art history. Colby is home to the Colby College Museum of Art, one of the largest art museums in Maine, which enhances the students' exposure to contemporary and classical works.

6. Psychology

   • Colby offers comprehensive programs in psychology, focusing on the study of human behavior, cognition, and mental health. The program emphasizes research and offers opportunities for students to engage in projects alongside faculty.

7. Physics and Astronomy

   • Colby College offers strong programs in physics and astronomy, with research opportunities at the college’s Waterville Observatory. The college emphasizes student involvement in hands-on projects, and students often conduct research in astrophysics and particle physics.

Student Research at Colby

Majors and Minors

Scholarships and Funding

International student help

Employment | Human Resources

Colby College has a number of distinguished professors across various academic fields. Here are some of the top professors at Colby College:

1. Dr. Susan L. Rassmussen – Anthropology

• Dr. Rasmussen is well-known for her research in medical anthropology and global health. She specializes in the study of health, illness, and healing practices, particularly in Africa. Her teaching focuses on the intersection of culture, health, and the environment.

2. Dr. William R. Keach – English

• A renowned scholar in 19th-century American literature, Dr. Keach is particularly known for his expertise on Herman Melville. His work includes literary theory and American cultural studies, and he has received accolades for his research and teaching in these areas.

3. Dr. Jennifer S. McManus – Psychology

• Dr. McManus is a leading professor in cognitive psychology with a focus on memory, decision-making, and cognitive development. She is highly regarded for her student-focused approach and her contributions to research on cognitive processes.

4. Dr. Douglas A. Vakoch – Psychology

• Dr. Vakoch is internationally recognized for his work in psychology and communication, specifically in the context of intercultural communication and psychology of extraterrestrial life. He has worked extensively on how humans would communicate with extraterrestrial intelligence.

5. Dr. Christopher S. Johnson – Physics

• A distinguished physicist, Dr. Johnson specializes in solid-state physics and material science. His research involves the study of new materials and their potential applications in energy technologies. He is noted for both his research and his engaging teaching methods.

6. Dr. Mary F. L. Hines – Political Science

• Dr. Hines is a leading scholar in American politics, with a particular focus on elections, public opinion, and political behavior. She is known for her research on voter behavior and her courses that bridge political theory with practical, real-world political applications.

7. Dr. John M. Sweeney – History

• Dr. Sweeney is a respected historian specializing in European history, particularly in the areas of medieval and early modern history. His research examines social structures, economic systems, and political developments during these periods.

8. Dr. David C. Leach – Religious Studies

• Dr. Leach is an expert in religious philosophy and Christian theology. He is known for his interdisciplinary work connecting philosophy, theology, and contemporary issues. His courses often engage with topics related to ethics, morality, and religion in the modern world.

9. Dr. John R. Foust – Economics

• Dr. Foust specializes in macroeconomics and economic theory. His research focuses on understanding economic policy and its impact on both national and global scales. He is known for his detailed and engaging courses on economic policy analysis.

10. Dr. Sarah A. Goodwin – Psychology

• Dr. Goodwin’s research interests lie in behavioral psychology, particularly focusing on mental health and cognitive science. She is known for her dedication to student research and has published widely in her field.

While Colby College has not had any Nobel Prize winners among its faculty or alumni, it has educated many individuals who have gone on to influential careers in public service, business, and academia. Notable alumni include Paul Volcker, former Chairman of the U.S. Federal Reserve, and Francine Prose, a renowned author.