Davidson College is a highly selective, private liberal arts college in Davidson, North Carolina, known for its rigorous academics, commitment to need-based financial aid, and a strong Honor Code. Established in 1837, it offers a broad liberal arts education with an emphasis on critical thinking and intellectual curiosity. The college is set in a vibrant town close to the major metropolitan area of Charlotte, providing students with both a supportive campus community and access to internships and cultural opportunities in the nation’s 15th largest city.

Academics and student life

• Liberal arts curriculum: Davidson provides a comprehensive liberal arts education, encouraging study in the humanities, natural sciences, social sciences, and the arts.
• Small class sizes: The college maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio of around nine to one, ensuring personal attention and fostering a collaborative learning environment.
• Strong Honor Code: A central feature of the Davidson experience is its long-standing and strict Honor Code, which has eliminated the need for proctored exams.
• Student activities: Students are encouraged to participate in a wide range of activities, from competitive athletics and campus clubs to a variety of cultural events and service projects.
• Residential experience: The college emphasizes a residential learning environment, with traditions like the “Cake Race” and “Midnight Scream” fostering a strong sense of community and connection among students.

Financial aid and access

Davidson College is one of a few schools in the nation that meets 100% of a student’s demonstrated financial need without requiring them to take out loans for their education.

• Need-based aid: The college’s financial aid packages are a combination of grants, student employment, and federal aid, allowing more than three-quarters of students to graduate with no debt.
• Holistic admissions: Davidson admits students based on a combination of academic potential, character, and accomplishments.

Location and community

• Proximity to Charlotte: Situated just 20 minutes north of Charlotte, Davidson offers students the benefits of a small-town campus while providing easy access to the internships, entertainment, and professional opportunities of a major metropolitan area.
• Town and campus integration: The campus is integrated into the town of Davidson, which provides a safe and active community for students, with many small businesses and restaurants.
• Regional connections: The nearby Lake Norman area offers opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Visit Davidson

• Information session and tours: Hosted almost daily throughout the academic year and summer, with an informative session about the college hosted by a member of the admission committee and often a senior fellow. Tours are 75 minutes and led by currently enrolled students.
• Virtual Tour: if you cannot come to campus, let us bring the campus to you. Our virtual tour will give you that inside look at Davidson.