Founded in 1881, Spelman College. is a Private college. Located in Georgia, which is a city setting in Georgia, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 2,125 full time undergraduate students, and 0 full time graduate students.
The Spelman College Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 11:1. There are 171 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Spelman College include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
35%
Application Deadline
1-Nov
Application Fee
35
SAT Range
980-1170
ACT Range
22-26
Admissions at are considered More Selective, with ,130% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 7 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
97% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 70% were in the top quarter, and 33% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Spelman College.
0%
“We”re apathetic”
3%
“We know about current events and vote”
55%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
42%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
2%
“We save it for the classroom”
2%
“Sometimes, but not often”
30%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
65%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
9%
“I only go out in groups”
24%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
67%
“I feel extremely safe”
83%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
10%
“We bought the gear”
7%
“We live for the big game”
1%
“It”s not really our thing”
11%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
52%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
35%
“We”re a very artistic group”
0%
“Haven”t met them”
3%
“Available in class”
70%
“They keep regular office hours”
27%
“They”re always available”
1%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
11%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
74%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
13%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
267 Students rated on-campus housing 3.2 stars. 6 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
192 Students rated off-campus housing 3.5 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
276 Students rated campus food 2.7 stars. 5 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
275 Students rated campus facilities 4 stars. 36 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
275 Students rated class size 4.7 stars. 76 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
275 Students rated school activities 4.2 stars. 47 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
276 Students rated local services 4 stars. 40 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
275 Students rated academics 4.2 stars. 51 % gave the school a 5.0.
Spelman College REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of Spelman College?
125 Students rated Spelman College
Niyah
Prospective04/25/2025
From a young age, I researched the best colleges and degree programs to become one of the most outstanding scholars and to show my mom that her sacrifices weren’t in vain. Spelman College has always been the college for me. This aspiration was solidified in 2022 when I was fortunate enough to visit while on a college tour with my school. As soon as I walked onto the campus, I knew I was home. I immediately called my mom with tears and said, “Mom, Spelman is the goal for my future.”
Once Spelman announced they were offering cosmetic chemistry as a degree program, I knew the stars were aligning in my favor, and I had to get in by any means necessary.
Azyria
Prospective04/24/2025
I desire to attend Spelman College because of its academic excellence, empowerment, and community. Unfortunately, I wasn’t fortunate to have an empowering and united biological family. My mother, cousin, and baby brother were taken away from me at the age of 14. Before their tragic deaths, my family wasn’t united nor was it the ideal mental situation, but once they were gone, everything fell apart. School has always been my way to get away from all of the nonsense, so I do not doubt that I will succeed at Spelman.
Although school has always been my escape, I have a bigger reason to succeed now. When my mother passed, it became my responsibility to take care of my siblings financially, mentally, and physically. They now look up to me, and I have to show them that no matter how unfortunate your situation is, you can still become something great. I have a burning desire to be a part of a caring and trusting community. I have spent the last 4 years of my life being the shoulder to lean on, and now I would like to have shoulders to lean on. Spelman has a strong female dominance, and this heals my inner child. There have been multiple occasions that I've been counted out because I was a female, but this didn't stop nor discourage me. I have learned sometimes it's better to go around some obstacles, but others you have to push through. I would bring leadership skills, integrity, and dedication to the Spelman College community.
I am particularly drawn to Spelman’s commitment to nurturing strong female leaders and its supportive community. I am eager to contribute my leadership skills, integrity, and dedication to this environment. Spelman’s emphasis on service resonates with my desire to give back and support others, just as I have supported my siblings. I am confident that Spelman College is the right place for me to prosper both academically and personally.
Gianna
Prospective04/24/2025
Spelman College stands out to me for many reasons. From speaking with students and staff during tours, attending Junior Preview Day, and doing my own research, I’ve come to truly admire what the school represents.
What resonates with me most is the sense of unity and sisterhood Spelman fosters. The journey from Spelmanite to Spelman Woman reflects something I deeply believe: college should shape you not just academically, but personally. I want to grow in an environment that challenges me to lead, to serve, and to evolve—and Spelman offers exactly that.
I also admire the strength of the AUC network. Being connected to so many driven students and professionals across campuses means more than opportunity—it means community. Spelman's emphasis on leadership, advocacy, and service directly aligns with the kind of woman I’m working to become.
Beyond its top HBCU ranking and success in social mobility, Spelman’s commitment to excellence shows up in the details: passionate professors, supportive advisors, dynamic student organizations, and robust study abroad programs that I hope to explore.
And then there’s the campus itself—a safe, secure space where Black women are empowered to thrive. Hearing students speak about feeling comfortable walking alone at night is powerful. It shows Spelman doesn’t just talk about protecting its students—it acts on it.
To be surrounded by brilliant, talented Black women in a space that prioritizes growth, safety, and sisterhood—truly displays how much Spelman cares for and pours into its students.
LaTwiya
College04/24/2025
Being around a generation of students who not only look like me and may come from similar backgrounds as me, I believe that Spelman college would be a great fit for me to pursue my education.
Naomi-Elizabeth
04/21/2025
I am in awe of Spelman College! The sisterhood is incredibly strong. Everyone I met on campus was very kind and welcoming. Not only do the students support one another, the students are encouraged every step of the way by the amazing faculty to become strong leaders and make meaningful change in their society. I am positive that Spelman College will challenge me and shape me into a powerful leader.
Aria
Prospective04/18/2025
Spelman College is the number one HBCU. I have even attracted to their sense of community as well as the overwhelming sisterhood.
Caitlin
Prospective04/18/2025
Spelman College’s commitment to empowering Black women to lead, serve, and innovate is exactly what draws me to its campus. As someone passionate about political science and international relations, I’m excited by Spelman’s strong legacy of producing women who shape policy, challenge injustice, and represent our communities on a global stage. The Political Science Department’s emphasis on civic engagement, critical thinking, and leadership aligns perfectly with my dream of becoming a U.S. diplomat.
Beyond academics, I’m inspired by Spelman’s intentional community—one where sisterhood, scholarship, and service aren’t just ideals, but lived values. I want to be in a place where I’m surrounded by brilliant Black women who challenge and uplift one another. Programs like the Spelman College Social Justice Fellows Program and study abroad opportunities also stand out to me. I believe that engaging with global issues while rooted in a deeply supportive community will help me grow into the kind of leader who listens, learns, and acts.
Spelman doesn’t just prepare students for careers—it prepares us to carry our communities forward. That mission speaks to me. I want to be a part of a place that celebrates identity, cultivates leadership, and encourages students to use their voices unapologetically. For me, Spelman isn’t just a college. It’s a movement—and I want to be part of it.
mone
Prospective04/16/2025
The culture and sisterhood Spelman College displays is what truly make me believe it's the place to be. As I have aunts that went there I've not only heard numerous stories but I've witnessed what value Spelman has. They provide their students with an amense amount of resources and connections to set them up from once they graduate. Their goal is to help all of their students succeed and they do an amazing job executing t.
Jordyn
Prospective04/16/2025
The culture around the Spelman Sisterhood as well as the high academic standard pushes me to attend the illustrious institution.
Syllesia
Prospective04/16/2025
Spelman College is an amazing institution that offers endless opportunities for growth, leadership, and success. The supportive community, dedicated professors, and strong network of alumni create an environment where students are truly empowered. From internships and research to study abroad and career connections, Spelman opens doors and prepares you to thrive in any field. It’s more than a college, it’s a sisterhood and a launchpad for greatness.
Ashlyn
Prospective04/14/2025
Spelman College has been my dream school since my Junior year of high school. When I visited Spelman's campus in October 2024, I instantly felt at home. It was a very immersive experience. Seeing other Black women working to make a difference in society inspired me and gave me hope that I can do the same thing. Learning that I could study abroad and work with professionals at different universities made me believe that Spelman can help me successfully network with others, make long-lasting connections, and gain new experiences. Spelman's tagline is "A Choice to Change the World". This tagline stands out to me because it gives me hope that I could be one of the many black women who make an impact in my community and the world. Spelman has an incredible STEM and Health Careers program that would help me enter the medical field. There is something that makes Spelman College different from other colleges. Spelman is an institution where I can grow emotionally and intellectually with like-minded individuals and create a sisterhood with different women of color who share the same values and interests as me. If given the opportunity, I would be ecstatic and honored to be able to make a difference by attending Spelman College.
Iliana
Prospective04/13/2025
The community you feel as black women is like no other.
Gabrielle
Prospective04/11/2025
Spelman College speaks for more than just academic achievements—Spelman represents sisterhood, service, and leadership. As someone who loves serving her community and has multiple leadership roles at school, I deeply admire Spelman. As the #1 historically black institution, Spelman not only has educated Black women, but Black women who serve. What draws me the most to Spelman College is that I will have like-minded Black women that will uplift and encourage me to do better for myself. Spelman will allow me to have my voice to be heard and not ignored.
Additionally, Spelman College has a great STEM program for women who would like to be STEM majors. My major is Health Science, and Spelman would be great for that field of study. Overall, what makes me want to attend Spelman College is that this institution will not only prepare me academically, but prepare me for a prosperous life.
Jaliyah
Prospective04/07/2025
Attending Spelman College is not just about earning a degree; it’s about embracing a legacy of excellence, resilience, and sisterhood. The opportunity to be a part of such a transformative institution is a dream come true for me, and I am eager to contribute to the community while growing both academically and personally.
Nyla Bruno
Prospective04/06/2025
After touring Spelman College, seeing all the successful black women in one space made me realize that it was a place I knew I could see myself. The culture there is one of building success and confidence in all its students, constantly providing opportunities for them to succeed in and out of school. I loved the work hard play hard aspect of the school, where the women there know to work as hard as possible and reward themselves with fun with everything is said and done. The campus is beautiful with an emphasis on tradition, making it a school that teaches women to respect themselves and go the extra mile to be as powerful and educated as possible. I want to attend Spelman because it is a place where a black woman can learn how to survive in the real world while also enjoying and basking in the luxuries that come along with being educated, kind, service oriented, and successful.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Spelman College is 35%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
Bill Cosby said, “There is a time and place for everything and it is called college.” If there is any place where one will have a life changing experience it is college. If I had the chance to coach myself back in high school, with my current knowledge, I would provide three pieces of advice. It would be about funding, eliminating procrastination and valuable study habits. Anxiety arises and receiving acceptance letters from dream schools is overwhelming. For me, nothing mattered besides getting in. All I thought about was friends, shopping, and college life out of state. If I could give myself advice, I would’ve begged myself to apply for scholarships. I would urge myself to stay away from student loans; actually I would suggest books, and extensive online research. Also, contacting a financial aid officer at the school to find other sources of funding would be helpful. Between classes and extracurricular activities, life is consuming. I would suggest a planner to avoid procrastination. Staying organized is key to success. I would tell myself to find good study habits such as reading over notes and resources. With all of these tools, college would have been a piece of cake.
Since Spelman is part of the Atlanta University Center, we have extremely strong ties with Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University, which only increases the chances of meeting new people and making new connections with faculty and staff.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
One thing that my school, as well as the students, take great pride in is our rich tradition. If you are not interested in participating in school traditions or building lifelong friendships then this environment would not be suitable for you, because we value our school's history and traditions and it is evident in everything that we do.
Someone who is proud of their African American background and/or does not mind slightly annoying constant conversations about race and politics. someone who is willing to learn, but is not easily persuaded- they'll try to get you. Also, women who love to party, but can still pull an 'A' on the exam the morning after. Afterall, it is Atlanta.
What kind of person should not attend this school?
The person who attends this school should be a strong, independnet young lady, not afraid to take challenges. A person who is willing to study hard and excel.
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
The most frustrating thikng about Spelman College would have to be the required courses that are need for general education but do not pertain to your major whatsoever. Some just seem competely unnecessary but are required to graduate.
My major is Biology and I have to say that the biology department at Spleman College is excellent. They will take the time to know who you are. In fact on of my professors knows me by the sound of my voice. They are very helpful and will always be there help you through a problem that may or may not have anything to do with the class.
Spelman creates a very supportive environment with small class sizes, professors who are beyond qualified many of who have their PhDs and many career and internship opportunities. For those who know of Spelman, they are very excited since it is ranked as the top HBCU in the country and of course the Spelman Alumnae are very proud and are part of an extensive and integral network. If I could change anything it would be the price but it is a small, private college and it is honestly worth every penny.
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?
Spelman College is said to be full of stuck-up, boujie, rich females. This stereotype is not accurate because I have several Spelman sisters who have to worry about if they are going to be able to come back the next semester because of money. I also have plenty of down to earth, laid back friends so this stereotype is completely wrong.
What is the stereotype of students at your school?
Some stereotypes that I often hear about Spelman students are that your rich, your stuck up, your snobby and the list goes on. I also hear something like the following: "OOOOOOOO, you go to Spelman, wow, your really smart."
What are the most popular student activities/groups?
The most wonderful event in my opinion that happens on campus is the Founders Day Convocation. It allows me time to reflect on the campus and its rich heritege. it is also a time when the students wear their white dresses which is a beautiful site to see.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
98% of students attending Spelman College receive some sort of financial aid.
65% were awarded federal grants.83%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.