Frequently Asked Questions about January Admission
Hamilton College offers spring admission to about 35 students each year to fill vacancies created by students on leave and studying abroad. These "Jans" are selected from the regular applicant pool and are notified of admission at the same time as students admitted for the fall term. Receiving admission as a "Jan" is an offer of full admission to the college community.
Why does Hamilton have first-year students starting in January?
Historically, more Hamilton students choose to study abroad during the spring semester than during the fall semester. This means that we have space on campus to welcome approximately 35 new first-year students in January.
Hamilton College is a highly selective institution, meaning that we have more qualified applicants than we have room for in our first-year class. Each year, after we have filled the places in our August class, there are students, who because of their academic potential, strength of character, and personal qualities, we are still eager to admit. From this group, we identify those whose demonstrated independence and intellectual curiosity lead us to believe that they will make good use of the fall semester, and offer them a place in the January class.
Is admission to Hamilton as a Jan like being on the wait list?
No. You have been offered a place in the Hamilton College community because we believe that you will make a wonderful addition to our campus. Students on the wait list have not been admitted, and may not have the opportunity to attend Hamilton. In recent years we have used the waitlist sparingly.
How do students who start in January fit in with the student body as a whole?
One of the hallmarks of the Hamilton experience is the friendly nature of our campus. It has been our experience that students beginning their Hamilton careers in January quickly integrate into our community, both academically and socially. There is a January Orientation program to assist students in their transition to college life. If you decide to enroll at Hamilton, you will also be invited to participate in our pre-orientation Adirondack Adventure and Urban Service Experience programs in August.
Where will I live once I arrive on campus?
Housing is guaranteed for all students. All housing requests and options that are available to first-year students who arrive in August are also available to students who join the campus in January. The Office of Residential Life attempts to place January students in close proximity to each other.
How will I get into classes?
January admits are assigned academic advisors in the summer after high school graduation. Their advisors assist in coordinating academic programs for the fall semester and in course selection for the spring semester at Hamilton.
What do Jans do between high school and their first semester at Hamilton?
In previous years, Jans have chosen to do virtually anything and everything, from community service and travel, to outdoor adventures and full-time work. Some students also have chosen to pursue credit-bearing opportunities at an accredited institution for purposes of transfer credit and possible graduation after three and a half years at Hamilton. However, a majority of Jans decide to study in London through the New York University program. Please note that studying in London through the NYU London program is our only suggested pre-approved study abroad option for next fall.
Whom can I contact if I have more questions?
Sara Ziesenitz '00, Senior Assistant Dean of Admission, will serve as your liaison as you make your decision about January admission. Please contact her with any additional questions by phone at 1-800-843-2655 or e-mail at szieseni@hamilton.edu.
