Oberlin Overnight Program

A photo of magnolia trees on Oberlin's campus.

Oberlin Overnight is a selective campus visit program for high-achieving high school seniors interested in the College of Arts and Sciences. Selected students will receive exclusive opportunities to get a firsthand view of campus life through an overnight stay with a current Oberlin student. Participants will attend classes, tour campus, and participate in themed programming.

Fall 2023 Program Themes

Oberlin Overnight: Diversity & Access
Oberlin Overnight: Spotlight on STEM

Eligibility Notes:

Overnight programs are open to high school seniors. Participants must also be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or undocumented students currently residing in the United States. 

The priority deadline to apply for all overnight programs is September 24, 2023. Applications may continue to be accepted after this date until all programs are full. Students will be notified of their acceptance to these programs on a rolling basis up to two weeks prior to the program date. Space is limited, so students are encouraged to apply early. Students may apply for multiple programs, but if selected, will only be invited to participate in one.

Oberlin Overnight: Diversity & Access

Program Description

At Oberlin, we have long understood that diversity, in all its forms, is essential to our mission to prepare our students to confront complex issues and spark positive change in the world. 

The Diversity & Access program will highlight how Oberlin welcomes and supports all students. Participants will have special opportunities to connect with current students and faculty from diverse backgrounds and meet representatives from a variety of identity-based student organizations. Learn more about how Oberlin builds community and helps students find their fit on campus.

Oberlin will cover the cost of transportation to and from campus as well as meals and accommodations during the program. 

Eligibility

All students who share our dedication to diversity are invited to apply. We particularly encourage applications from students who identify with historically underrepresented groups, such as those who are the first generation in their family to go to college, low-income, and/or students of color.

Students will be selected for participation in this Oberlin Overnight program based on their academic qualifications and demonstrated interest in diversity issues, with priority given to students from families with limited financial resources.

Diversity & Access Program Dates 

  • October 26-28
  • November 9-11

The priority application deadline is September 24, 2023. 

You’ll need the following items to complete the application form:

  • An unofficial high school transcript containing final grades from spring 2023
  • SAT or ACT scores (optional)
  • Short answer question - respond to the following prompt in 300 words or fewer: 

"Since 1835, Oberlin has been a leader in diversity, becoming the first school in the nation to admit African Americans and adopting a policy to admit students regardless of race or gender. Because of this, some students first hear about Oberlin in their history books. How did you first learn about Oberlin and how does Oberlin’s history of diversity, equity, and inclusion align with your values?"

Students selected for the program are also required to complete the Responsibility Acknowledgement Form. You will receive instructions on how to do so after your application has been submitted. You must submit this form in order to participate in the program.

Oberlin Overnight: Spotlight on STEM

Program Description

Oberlin has long been a national leader in educating undergraduate scientists. Our students are encouraged to take a central role in research, working closely with faculty members and taking advantage of opportunities rivaling those found at graduate schools. 

The Spotlight on STEM program will highlight the distinctive aspects of studying scientific fields at Oberlin. Participants will have special opportunities to connect with current students and faculty across the scientific disciplines, gain insight into research opportunities, tour lab facilities, and get an inside look into the powerful student-faculty mentorship that is a hallmark of an Oberlin education. Learn more about why Oberlin graduates more students who go on to earn science PhDs than nearly all other liberal arts colleges.

Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from campus. Oberlin will provide meals and accommodations during the program.

Eligibility

All students who intend to major in STEM fields are encouraged to apply. This includes students interested in Astronomy, Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, 3-2 Engineering, Geosciences, Mathematics, Neuroscience, and Physics. 

Students will be selected for participation in this Oberlin Overnight program based on their academic qualifications and demonstrated interest in studying STEM. Please do not book flights or make travel arrangements until you are admitted to the program.

Spotlight on STEM Program Dates 

  • October 5-6
  • October 12-13

The priority application deadline is September 24, 2023. 

Participants will be asked to arrive on campus in the early afternoon of the first day. Programming will conclude in the late afternoon on the second day. Please do not book flights or make travel arrangements until you are admitted to the program.

You’ll need the following items to complete the application form:

  • An unofficial high school transcript containing final grades from spring 2023
  • SAT or ACT scores (optional)
  • Short answer question - respond to the following prompt in 300 words or fewer: 

"How did your interest in STEM develop, and why do you want to study a STEM field in college?"

Students selected for the program are also required to complete the Overnight Visit Waiver. You will receive instructions on how to do so after your application has been submitted. You must submit this form in order to participate in the program