• Independent, private undergraduate college of the liberal arts and sciences. An honor code provides a sense of responsibility and self-direction that is central to intellectual life at Knox; tests haven’t been proctored since 1951.

• Founded in 1837 by radical reformers who opposed slavery in all its forms—physical, spiritual, and intellectual—and believed deeply in the potential of every human being to contribute to the greater good of the community. Knox was open to women and people of color from its earliest years, when it was nationally recognized as “the best college in the west.” In 1917 Knox became the first college in Illinois to receive a Phi Beta Kappa chapter.

• Located in Galesburg, a classic Midwestern prairie city with a population of 35,000, located three hours west of Chicago and three hours north of St. Louis. Galesburg is known for red brick streets, Victorian homes, and historic Seminary Street commercial district located just three blocks from campus, making its restaurants, shops, and coffeehouses an easy walk or bike ride away.

• Historic 80-acre campus, site of the 1858 Lincoln-Douglas Debates; 700-acre Green Oaks Biological Field Station located 20 minutes from campus

• Knox is increasingly recognized for its innovative approach to a liberal arts education and for professors who are “scholar-teachers,” providing opportunities for undergraduate research and independent study. As a result, thirteen Knox graduates have been named Fulbright Scholars in the past 12 years. And more than 90% of Knox students complete a research project or independent study as undergraduates, supported by more than $200,000 annually in research grants.

• Knox is the first college in the country to offer a new Peace Corps Preparatory Program to prepare students interested in international service. Students take an internationally focused curriculum, including language study, and engage in community service.

• Washington Monthly magazine ranks Knox 36th among liberal arts colleges in the nation. This ranking, like the CTCL recognition, looks at outcomes and quality of student experience as well as the service that Knox and its alumni provide to the nation.

• U.S. News & World Report ranks Knox as one of the most racially diverse—and 30 most international—liberal arts colleges in the nation.

• 1,371 students

• Average class size: 17

• Students are from 45 states and 44 countries.

• 15% students of color (4% African American, 6% Asian, 4% Hispanic, 1% Native American); 7% international students

• Education at Knox takes place through a system of guided independence. In consultation with your faculty advisor, you will devise and educational plan that achieves the personal and career goals that are uniquely your own.

• 93% of full-time faculty hold the most advanced degree in their field. All classes are taught by professors (there are no teaching assistants at Knox).

• Over 60% of Knox’s scholar-teachers had work published, publicly performed or exhibited, or received grants or awards for their scholarly achievements in the past year alone.

• Almost 50% of Knox students participate in one of 33 off-campus study programs in 18 nations.

• Comprehensive Fee (2008-09): $37,233

• 68% of students receive need-based financial assistance.

• Average award: $20,576

• Knox students and faculty come from across the United States and around the world. With over 100 student clubs and organizations, campus life features a wonderful cross section of cultures, ideas, and personalities that makes life at Knox unique among college campuses.

• Over 95% of students live on campus. Most residence halls are arranged in suites–groups of single and double rooms that surround a shared living space. Theme houses, apartments, fraternities, and townhouses are also popular options.

• Outstanding facilities for intercollegiate and recreational athletics; more that a quarter of students participate in 21 NCAA Division III sports. Club and intramural sports are also popular including water polo, ultimate Frisbee, lacrosse, and volleyball.

• Middle 50% SAT (CR+M) scores: 1190-1380

• Middle 50% ACT Composite scores: 27-31

• 39% in the top tenth of their high school class; 75% graduated in the top quarter.