reed college tour

Get to know Reed in person or online! We invite you to step onto campus for a tour or information session. You can also join us throughout the year for a range of virtual events, including virtual tours and information sessions; workshops to help with your college search; and opportunities to hear from faculty, current students, and college leaders.

Admission & Aid

At Reed College, you’ll cross academic disciplines in your pursuit of knowledge, discovering new questions along the way. Professors assign challenging material, then serve as resources and facilitators as you and your classmates discuss ideas with thoughtfulness and compassion. If you’re ready for an intellectual challenge and a fun, close-knit community, you’ll thrive here. Learn about who we are and how we can help you become a lifelong Reedie. 

How to Apply

Join a community that values scholarly pursuits at the highest level for all. That's why we've waived application fees and embraced a test-blind policy for applicants. If you are eager to learn in a place where curiosity thrives, we encourage you to apply now.

Learn About Our Application Process

Hear from Reedies

Discover the stories of a mathematics major who helped create a milk club, a pre-med student getting hands-on research experience, and an economics alum who found community at Reed.

Julian Jacklin

Coding, Cow-Print Tablecloths, and Community

Nanati Safawo

Charting a Course to Medical School

Hannah Rosenthal

Rooted in Economics, Branching across Disciplines

Reed’s Commitment to Affordability

Creating a diverse and inclusive campus at Reed includes making sure all of our students can afford a Reed education. Through our financial aid program, we meet 100 percent of the demonstrated need for all admitted students, international or domestic, for all four years. Learn about Cost & Aid at Reed

Visit and Experience Reed

Get a taste of Reed’s vibrant academic and collaborative culture. We offer in-person and virtual tours where you can explore our campus and talk to an admission counselor.

Residence Life

Experience the community spirit of Reed as you live on campus. As a first-year student, you’ll live in clusters called “neighborhoods” that help you build friendships and express yourself as you transition to life at Reed.

Housing & Dining

What is a Reedie?

They studied mouthbrooding fish, analyzed Beyoncé and Katy Perry, translated Chinese and Russian, played frisbee, learned to rock climb, and sang in Reed's Collegium Musicum. Meet 12 from the Class of 2023

Have questions? We're here to help. Contact our admission team for personalized assistance with your application, a campus visit, or any other questions you may have. [email protected] Phone:  503-777-7511 (local) |  800-547-4750 (toll-free) Fax:  503-777-7553

Reed Research Reactor

Reed reactor visitor information.

A reactor student staff member leading a tour. Credit: Reed Alumni Association

[ In-Person Visits and Tours  | Virtual Tours and Activities |  Labs and Demonstrations  | Mail ]

In-Person Visits and Tours

We offer free in-person tours and labs to educational groups. If you would like to visit the reactor for a tour and/or a lab please fill out a Tour Request Form . We will try to get back to you within 3 business days. Please give us at least a week's notice for requested tour dates, otherwise we may not be able to accomodate your tour. For more information email us at [email protected] . Note: In general, we do not offer tours to individual members of the public, or groups that are not associated with educational institutions or programs fulfilling an educational mission. 

The tour lasts about 1 hour, and covers a wide range of topics, such as the basics of reactor physics, our operator training program, and the research we do. Tours can easily be tailored for many different age groups and levels of education, from about sixth graders to adults. In addition to tours, we offer a variety of labs , listed below. 

We ask that you limit your group size to 30 people**, and take responsibility for chaperoning any young children. If anyone in your group requires any specific accommodations (such as wheelchair access, a translator, etc.) please let us know beforehand so we can make any arrangements necessary. The minimum age for tours and labs is 10 years old.

** Any tours over Reed's summer break (May 14th to August 25th, 2024) must be 15 people or less. 

If any member of your group is sick with a contagious or infectious disease or virus such as the flu, please have them stay home.

We meet visiting groups in the Chemistry Building Lobby. Directions to Reed College can be found here and a campus map can be found here.  

When visiting the Reed Reactor:  

• You will be asked to leave food and beverage outside.
• You will be asked to leave bags and heavy coats in the hallway.
• You will be asked to print your name in our Visitor Log.
• You may be asked for photo identification if you are 18+.
• You should wear closed-toe shoes.
• You must ask permission before taking photos or video.
• Your tour ends at the scheduled time; if you are late we will not be able to extend your time past the scheduled end-time. 

Virtual Tours and Activities

If you are unable to take an in-person tour we have a variety of videos about the reactor:

• A reactor tour video produced by a reactor student  (made in 2020, 32 minutes)
• A short Popular Science video (made in 2011, 2 minutes)
• Will and Norm from Adam Savage’s Tested channel visit the reactor (made in 2012, 26 minutes)
• A Reedie Campus Close-Up about the reactor made by two reactor students (made in 2021, 6 minutes)

If you’d like to do a lab at home or in the classroom:

• We filmed a vanadium half-life lab (and worksheet) where students will plot the decay curve of radioactive vanadium and then calculate its half-life. 
• We filmed a shielding lab (and worksheet ) where students will analyze how well different materials shield against different types of radiation . 
• UC Boulder has created a Build a Nucleus simulator where students can build their own atom and explore radioactive decay. The simulator and associated activities are free to use, although teachers/educators need to register (for free) to access the activity worksheets. 
• You can calculate your background radiation dose with this online worksheet .

You can also visit the American Nuclear Society’s website where they have a large variety of classroom resources .

Labs and Demonstrations

These are the labs we do most often. Labs are best suited for six to twelve students, take about 1 hour, and will be run by student staff members.  

Vanadium Half-life lab

Students measure the half-life of a short-lived radioisotope. This is our most popular lab and scales well for a variety of age groups.

Silver Dime Lab (Half-Life)

This is a slightly more sophisticated version of the Half-life lab. Allow students to measure the radiation coming off of dimes, which have two simultaneously decaying isotopes of silver. Good for older groups (College and some high school groups).  Please note that this lab requires more staffing than the other labs and may not be available.

Detecting Radiation

Student learn good survey technique as you get the opportunity to detect the common sources of radiation from our everyday lives. Good for younger groups (8 th grade and younger).

If you enjoyed your tour and want to thank our students, please address your mail to:

Reed Reactor 3203 SE Woodstock Blvd Portland, OR 97202  USA

If you cannot mail your letter or package, you must contact the Director or ROM to arrange an in-person delivery. 

Transfer Student Deadlines and Decision Dates

First-year applicants may choose between two application platforms to submit an application form and required supplemental material. Reed is a member of the Coalition for College, a group of over 150 colleges and universities ( coalitionforcollegeaccess.org ). Reed is also a member of the Common Application, a consortium of more than 800 colleges and universities ( commonapp.org ). Both applications may be submitted online beginning August 1. Students should not submit more than one of these applications in a given year. Reed has no preference for which application is selected.

Transfer applicants may use the Common Application platform ( commonapp.org ).

Application procedures for first-year and transfer students are addressed in the following sections, and detailed instructions are available at the Reed Admission website. The Office of Admission may limit the reapplication process for a candidate. Prospective students with questions about the college and the admission process, or with requests for special consideration, may call the Office of Admission at 503-777-7511 or 800-547-4750, or send email to [email protected] . The Reed Admission website is reed.edu/apply .

First-Year Students

Applicants seeking admission to Reed as first-year students must submit the application form and Reed supplement via the Coalition Application or the Common Application, a counselor recommendation, official high school and college transcripts for all schools attended (whether or not credit for those courses transfers to Reed), and two recommendations from teachers in different core academic disciplines (English, mathematics, science, a non-English language, history, or social studies). Recommendations are also accepted from any instructor of a College Board Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) course, or from any college professor who has taught the applicant in a credit-bearing course, including fine arts or theory of knowledge courses.

If applying for financial aid, the college requires both the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile. The CSS Profile is due at the time of application. See note about changes to the FAFSA, below.* Students interested in receiving federal aid only do not need to complete the CSS Profile. Late applications for financial aid may not be considered for institutional funding. Inaccurate reporting of financial information by the student or parent may disqualify the student from receiving institutional funding. The Office of Financial Aid may request additional materials from any applicant.

Reed will not require or use testing results from the SAT or ACT in admission review for the fall 2024 admission cycle for domestic students in a public or independent school curriculum. Students in a homeschool curriculum may choose to submit the SAT and/or ACT for consideration in admission review. With the exception of homeschool applicants who have chosen to submit test scores, Reed will not review or use SAT or ACT scores in the admission process. However, applicants are welcome and encouraged to submit test scores for future analysis.

The Admission Committee will reevaluate this policy after the fall 2024 cycle and may require applicants to submit test scores for fall 2025 and beyond. If this happens, Reed will require applicants to submit the results of either the SAT or ACT entrance examination. There is no preference for one examination over the other.

Students are encouraged to submit their IB, AP, and/or SAT II (subject tests), as that data may enhance an applicant’s candidacy.

All matriculating first-year students are required to send an official copy of their final high school transcript showing graduation date to the Office of Admission by July 15. Alternatively, students may send a copy of their GED results or state certification. Enrollment is contingent upon successful completion of high school.

An admission interview is required for students attending early college high school programs or graduating early.

The Office of Admission may request additional materials or activity from or waive certain requirements for any applicant.

Applicants who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents should read the additional information in the “ International Citizens ” section under “ Admission Policies .”

Early Decision

Early Decision is a binding admission process and an excellent option for first-year applicants who decide that Reed is their first-choice college. Students who are certain that they will attend Reed if admitted are encouraged to apply as Early Decision candidates. There is no Early Decision option for transfer applicants.

Students applying under one of the Early Decision plans may submit nonbinding applications to other institutions; if admitted to Reed, Early Decision candidates must immediately withdraw all other college applications and must not initiate any new applications, or Reed will withdraw all offers of admission.

A student may not apply to more than one institution as an Early Decision candidate. With Early Decision applicants, the Admission Committee will offer or deny admission or postpone a decision (to reconsider the application in the Regular Decision round). Early Decision candidates whose applications are denied may not submit another application for the same year. Early Decision candidates whose applications are postponed to Regular Decision admission are encouraged to add supporting application materials.

Early Decision students will receive one of their top two choices of residence hall. There is no difference between the financial support students receive as an Early Decision, Early Action, or Regular Decision applicant. All admitted students receive Reed’s best financial support regardless of decision round.

Early Decision I (ED I): Candidates applying under ED I must submit application materials by November 1. If the CSS Profile is on file in the financial aid office by November 1, admitted students will be notified of their aid eligibility shortly after receiving the admission decision. See note about changes to the FAFSA, below.* Students admitted at this time are expected to submit a nonrefundable enrollment deposit of $400 within two weeks of receiving their notification of admission or within 10 days of receiving their financial aid award, whichever is later. A confirmation deposit of $400 is due by June 1. The offer of admission to an Early Decision I candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of all academic work in progress.

Early Decision II (ED II): Candidates applying under ED II must submit application materials by December 20 and are strongly encouraged to submit fall semester or first trimester grades, if available. If the CSS Profile is on file in the financial aid office by December 20, admitted students will be notified of their aid eligibility shortly after receiving the admission decision. See note about changes to the FAFSA, below.* Students admitted at this time are expected to submit a nonrefundable enrollment deposit of $400 within two weeks of receiving their notification of admission or within 10 days of receiving their financial aid award, whichever is later. A confirmation deposit of $400 is due by June 1. The offer of admission to an Early Decision II candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of all academic work in progress.

Early Action

Early Action is the earliest general round and the favored option for students who prefer a nonbinding admission process. Candidates for Early Action admission should submit their application by November 1 for consideration for fall entrance. Admitted students who have submitted all required financial aid documentation by the deadline will receive financial aid notifications in March. Reed subscribes to the National Candidate Reply Date of May 1; admitted Early Action students must notify the college of their intent to enroll and submit a nonrefundable enrollment deposit of $400 by May 1 and a confirmation deposit of $400 by June 1. The offer of admission to an Early Action candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of all academic work in progress and the submission of a deposit to Reed.

Regular Decision

Regular Decision is a nonbinding admission process. Candidates for Regular Decision admission should submit their application by January 15 for consideration for fall entrance. The expected mail date of admission decisions for on-time and complete applications is April 1. Admitted students who have submitted all required financial aid documentation by the deadline will receive financial aid notifications on a rolling basis.

Reed subscribes to the National Candidates Reply Date of May 1; admitted Regular Decision students must notify the college of their intent to enroll and submit a nonrefundable enrollment deposit of $400 by May 1 and a confirmation deposit of $400 by June 1. The offer of admission to a Regular Decision candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of all academic work in progress and the submission of a deposit to Reed.

*Due to significant FAFSA changes, the 2024-25 FAFSA will not be available until December 2023. Reed will estimate eligibility based on the CSS Profile. Once available, the FAFSA will be required to finalize aid eligibility.

A student must apply as a transfer applicant rather than a first-year applicant if they have graduated from high school or the equivalent, and, by the time of enrollment at Reed, have:

• Enrolled in one or more classes at an accredited institution of higher learning (even if the student withdrew from any or all of the classes) after completing a high school diploma or equivalent, or
• Completed one or more terms (a quarter or a semester) as a full-time student at an accredited institution of higher learning, or
• Received financial aid at an accredited institution of higher learning, or
• Earned a minimum of six Reed units (24 semester or 36 quarter hours) of allowable transfer credit. One Reed unit is the equivalent of four semester hours or six quarter hours.

Transfer applicants must use the Common Application to submit their application form and supplement. They must also submit a College Report (rather than a counselor recommendation), an official high school transcript showing graduation date (students who did not graduate from high school but earned a GED must submit both the high school transcript and GED test results), official transcripts from all secondary schools and colleges attended (whether or not credit for those courses transfers to Reed), and one letter of recommendation from a college instructor. An additional recommendation may be from a high school instructor, a college instructor, or an employer. If the student is applying for financial aid, the college requires both the FAFSA (domestic students only) and the CSS Profile in order to award institutional funding.

The Office of Admission may request additional materials or activity (such as an interview) from any applicant or waive certain requirements. The offer of admission to a transfer candidate is contingent upon successful completion of current college work.

Standardized test results (SAT or ACT) that transfer applicants have already taken may be submitted with the application.

Results of additional tests such as IB, AP, and/or SAT II (subject tests) are optional and encouraged.

For students who are international and either do not speak English at home or attend schools where the language of instruction is not English, the college requires the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System assessment (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test. In some cases, a student may also submit the results of the SAT or ACT.

Each admitted transfer applicant will be given a preliminary analysis of transfer credit. Courses are evaluated in light of their applicability toward a liberal arts degree and in the context of the Reed College curriculum. Credit is not awarded for professional, technical, vocational, or remedial courses. Class standing (first-year or sophomore) is determined by the number of units approved by Reed for transfer. Reed requires two full years (15 units, or 60 semester hours) completed in residence at Reed to obtain the degree. Upon receipt of the final college transcripts, the registrar’s office will prepare a final credit evaluation for each transfer enrollee. Junior class standing at Reed is granted only with the approval of the intended major department.

To facilitate the transition between colleges, each transfer student is assigned an academic adviser with whom to consult before registration. The adviser will help arrange the student’s program of study, taking into account the student’s previous college work, the student’s educational goals, and Reed’s distribution requirements.

To receive full consideration, transfer applicants should submit application materials to the Office of Admission by the March 1 priority deadline or the May 1 regular deadline. These deadlines are especially important for those candidates who intend to apply for financial aid. Students may continue to submit applications after May 1 and will receive consideration if room is available.

If the FAFSA (domestic students only) and the CSS Profile are on file in the financial aid office by March 1 or May 1, admitted students will receive financial aid notifications shortly after receiving the admission decision, generally within two weeks.

Admitted transfers must notify the college of their intent to enroll and submit a nonrefundable enrollment deposit of $400 within 21 days of receiving the offer of admission. All enrolling transfer students are required to send final official college transcripts to the Office of Admission before registering at the college.

Non-U.S. citizens planning to transfer to Reed should be sure to read the information in the “ International Citizens ” section under “ Admission Policies .”

Spring/Midyear Transfer

Candidates for spring/midyear transfer admission should submit their application by November 15 for consideration for spring entrance. Admitted students who have submitted all required financial aid documentation by the deadline will receive financial aid notifications shortly after receiving the admission decision, generally within two weeks. Admitted spring/midyear transfer students must notify the college of their intent to enroll and submit a nonrefundable $400 enrollment deposit 10 days after notification of admission or 10 days after receipt of financial aid notification, whichever is later.

The offer of admission to a spring/midyear transfer candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of all academic work in progress.

Admission Policies

In considering the needs of Reed applicants, the college follows the admission policies stated here. Requests for special consideration should be discussed with the Office of Admission.

Transfer Credit for Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and Dual Enrollment: Credit and Noncredit

Prematriculation credit is credit earned for academic work prior to enrolling at Reed College. It includes:

• Regular college courses completed while in high school or as a non-degree-seeking student after high school graduation but prior to matriculating at Reed. These courses must appear on an official transcript from a regionally accredited postsecondary institution and meet Reed’s standards for transfer. They may apply toward Reed’s group and division requirements.
• Advanced Placement (AP) credit, International Baccalaureate (IB) credit, or other exam credit. These credits may not apply towards Reed’s group, division, major, or minor requirements.

Students may receive up to eight total units of prematriculation credit. Those eight units may be from regular college courses, exam credit, or a combination of both. The successful transfer of prematriculation credit does not affect class standing at Reed. Students who successfully transfer prematriculation credit are still classified as first-year students and must participate in the Humanities 110 requirement.

Credit is allowed on the basis of some College Board Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) examinations. For departments that grant credit for AP and IB exams, scores of four or five are required for AP, and scores of five and above are required for IB Higher Level exams.

A current list of scores accepted for credit can be found on our website at reed.edu/apply/guide-to-applying/first-year/index.html#college-credit .

For information regarding transfer credit and cross-registration, please see Academic Policies    in the “ The Educational Program   ” section of this catalog.

Campus Visits and Events

The Office of Admission recommends that prospective students initiate personal contact with the college in person and/or online. One way of accomplishing this is through virtual or in-person visits and events. The admission visits and events calendar may be found online at reed.edu/apply/visit . Many events feature Reed faculty. To be connected with Reed faculty outside of an event, please contact the Office of Admission.

Virtual visits are offered throughout the year and include virtual information sessions, virtual one-on-one meetings and interviews, virtual campus tours, and special events. Students may also view recordings of past virtual sessions and other original content on the college’s YouTube channel .

Prospective students may also register for an on-campus visit. While on campus, students may be able to take part in a general information session, interview with an admission counselor or student admission intern, tour the campus, attend classes, eat in the dining hall, and spend the night in a residence hall.

Parents are encouraged to attend the information session and tour. Classroom visits are available for high school seniors only and may be scheduled through the Office of Admission. When available, hosted overnight accommodations in a residence hall are open to high school seniors for one night, Sunday through Thursday, when classes are in session. The Office of Admission requests two weeks’ notice from students who plan to interview or spend the night on campus. Generally, overnight visits during the month of April are reserved for admitted students.

Visits are most productive on weekdays during the regular school year, when classes are in session. They may be arranged through the Office of Admission, which is open on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. (Pacific time) except for major holidays and college event days. The office is also open on weekdays in the summer and on selected Saturday mornings in the fall and spring semesters.

The Office of Admission hosts campus events throughout the year. Please visit reed.edu/apply/visit to view the most current list of events.

During an interview, a prospective student can ask questions and learn more about the college in a relaxed setting, while an admission counselor, student admission intern, or alumni representative has an opportunity to learn more about the student and share about Reed. The latest information about interview deadlines for first-year applicants is available online at reed.edu/apply/guide-to-applying/first-year .

Interviews are offered virtually and on campus throughout the year. Students may also choose to interview with an admission counselor visiting their area or an admission alumni representative. Off-campus interviews are typically offered between October and April.

Interviews are encouraged for admission but are not required.

Deferred Entrance

First-year students may request to defer entrance for one year once they have made their nonrefundable enrollment deposit of $400 by May 1. Students intending to defer must pay their second deposit by June 1. Students granted deferred admission must confirm their intent to enroll by submitting a third and final $400 confirmation deposit by January 10 of the following year. Deposits are credited toward tuition.

Transfer students are generally not eligible for deferred entrance except in the case of military or religious service or medical necessity (documentation may be required). Only in rare cases is deferred entrance available for students admitted from the waitlist.

The priority deadline for deferred entrance requests is May 15. Students who wish to request deferred entrance must write to the vice president and dean of admission and financial aid, providing a detailed plan for the deferral year. Deferral requests will not be considered without an enrollment deposit.

If the deferral request is approved, the deposits will reserve a place in the desired entering class and will be applied toward the student’s first-semester tuition at Reed. A student granted deferred admission must agree not to enroll at another college or university as a full- or part-time student, nor to apply to other colleges or universities during the deferral year.

Students who defer can expect a similar financial aid package, should their financial circumstances remain consistent, but Reed does not guarantee financial aid awards. The financial aid application process must be completed annually and by the deadline to determine eligibility for financial aid.

Historically, around 50% of deferral requests are approved. If the deferral request is not granted, Reed anticipates the student will enroll in the upcoming fall. If the student chooses to forfeit enrollment after May 1, deposits will not be refunded.

Rescinding Admission

The National Association for College Admission Counseling reports various reasons that colleges and universities rescind admission offers, including final grades, disciplinary issues, missed deadlines, and falsification of application information. In rare cases, the vice president and dean of admission and financial aid will make the difficult decision to rescind an admission offer for reasons described above, for other reasons, or in other cases where the student is in violation of Reed’s Honor Principle. Reed may or may not disclose the reasons for this decision to any party. The decision is never taken lightly and the college always offers the student an opportunity to explain circumstances or to provide new information before the offer of admission is rescinded.

Out of respect for the privacy of the individual, Reed will not comment on the specifics that lead to a rescission. The college works diligently to build each entering class in line with its educational mission.

Applicants Graduating from High School Early

The Admission Committee will consider applications from exceptionally qualified high school students who wish to enter Reed before they turn 17 years of age. These applicants should have an outstanding high school record and have exhausted the educational opportunities available to them at their high school.

Applicants who, if admitted, would enter Reed prior to turning 17 years of age will follow the standard first-year application process, with one exception. These applicants are required to have an admission interview. In addition, applicants must be sure to address in the application why they are seeking admission to Reed prior to turning 17 years of age.

Applicants who intend to apply for financial aid should note that federal regulations require that students receive a high school diploma or a recognized equivalent, such as the General Educational Development (GED) certificate, or other state-sanctioned test or diploma-equivalency certificate, in order to be eligible to receive federal financial aid.

Students at Early College Programs

Students who enroll in early college programs are required to complete the application for admission and interview with a faculty member and admission staff member as part of their application review process.

International Citizens

Reed encourages applications from qualified international citizens seeking a broad and rigorous education in the liberal arts and sciences. The Admission Committee pays particular attention to the applicant’s ability to read, write, and understand English, since the substance of Reed’s courses and the style in which they are conducted demand a high degree of proficiency in the language.

Students must submit the application form and Reed supplement via either the Coalition Application or the Common Application, a counselor recommendation, a complete secondary school transcript (including predicted A-level results, where relevant), a secondary school report, and two teacher recommendations.

For students who are international and either do not speak English at home or attend schools where the language of instruction is not English, the college recommends the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System assessment (IELTS), or the Duolingo English Test. The college will also accept the SAT or the ACT as a replacement for the English proficiency verification. These tests should be taken before January preceding the academic year for which admission is sought.

More information about admission and financial aid for international citizens can be found at reed.edu/apply/guide-to-applying/international/index.html . Any questions about application status, timing, or unusual circumstances should be sent to the Office of Admission at [email protected] .

To apply for financial aid, submit the CSS Profile by the appropriate deadline according to the table at the beginning of the admission section, and a complete International Student Certification of Finances form through the secure document submission portal of the Reed College Office of Financial Aid. Documentation of resources on a Certification of Finances form is necessary before Reed can issue the I-20 form to admitted students.

Homeschooled Students

Homeschooled applicants must submit the application form and Reed supplement through the Common Application or the Coalition Application. Reed has no preference for which application is selected.

Homeschooled applicants who intend to apply for financial aid should note that federal regulations require that students receive a high school diploma or recognized equivalent, such as a General Education Development (GED) certificate, other state-sanctioned test or diploma-equivalency certificate, or state certification in order to be eligible to receive federal financial aid.

Students who meet their state’s requirement for homeschooling at the secondary level may have an alternative to the high school diploma. This alternative is a certification stating that the student has the academic qualifications necessary for a high school diploma as approved by the state. The student must be above the age of compulsory education in the home state. A copy of this certification must be submitted to Reed’s financial aid office in order to establish federal aid eligibility.

In order to help us best assess the student’s readiness to attend Reed, the homeschooled applicant must include the following with the application:

• Official transcripts of any high school or college work undertaken or completed;
• A letter of reference from a tutor, evaluator, or teacher who is not a family member;
• The School Report. Parents are often instrumental in the homeschooling process and may complete the School Report, if applicable.

In order to strengthen the application, we recommend:

• An interview, either on or off campus, with an admission counselor. Interviews are generally available from July through December for first-year applicants and through February for transfer applicants.
• Two academic references are preferred. If it is difficult to obtain references from two academic sources, a second letter of reference may come from an employer, supervisor, or any non-family member who can address important personal qualities such as responsibility, creativity, discipline, and initiative.
• Submission of the ACT or SAT. While not required, the college recognizes that traditional comparable metrics may not be available for homeschooled students. As a result, Reed considers the ACT or SAT should homeschooled students include test scores in the application.

Nontraditional Students

Reed welcomes the diversity of age and experience that nontraditional students bring to campus. The college welcomes applications from students who have been away from school for a time but wish to begin or resume college studies toward a bachelor’s degree.

The Reed curriculum and community offer an atmosphere of serious learning appropriate for the mature student who plans to pursue a full-time program. Reed encourages students who have been out of school for more than three years to take college courses before applying to support their body of academic work.

Reed participates in the Osher Reentry Scholarship Program. The program offers annual scholarships of up to $5,000 to support students aged 25-50 who have experienced a cumulative gap in their education of five or more years; are at the undergraduate level and pursuing their first baccalaureate degree; anticipate workforce participation for a significant period of time after graduation; demonstrate financial need; and show academic promise and a commitment to obtaining their degree.

For more information, contact the Office of Financial Aid at [email protected] .

Reapplication

Students who applied to Reed and did not enroll may reapply using their past submitted application and under the following conditions:

• Reed keeps first-year applications on file for two years. If a reapplying student does not have an application on file, they must complete a new application.
• The reapplying student must request reactivation of their file by emailing [email protected] . If that request is granted, the Office of Admission will inform the reapplying student of any required new materials that need to be submitted.
• A reapplying student who was originally placed on the waitlist or denied will be allowed to reapply to Reed as a transfer applicant only after completing at least one semester of college coursework (or the equivalent of four Reed units). More than one semester of college coursework will significantly increase the likelihood of admission.
• A reapplying student should include a letter detailing what they have done since previously applying.
• The Office of Admission may limit the number of times a student applies for admission.

Readmission

Readmission refers to students who have been degree-seeking students at Reed in the past and who wish to reenter the college. Readmission is processed by the registrar’s office; see the section on “ Academic Policies: Leave of Absence and Withdrawal from the College    .”  

The waitlist refers to applicants who are not immediately granted admission to Reed but may be admitted at a later date. Applicants who are placed on the waitlist are asked to share their plans with the college; a waitlisted applicant may indicate a preference to remain on the waitlist for future consideration or indicate a desire not to be considered at a later date.

If an applicant accepts a position on the waitlist, that applicant may submit additional materials, though it is not required that they do so.

Applicants on the waitlist may be considered for admission to Reed until waitlist activity concludes for the year. Applicants will be informed by email when waitlist activity is complete.

Reed is unable to accommodate requests to discuss specific details about individual admission decisions. Our selection process involves a careful and holistic review of each completed application received. Unless new and compelling information is presented, it is unlikely that an admission decision will be reversed.

For an appeal to have merit, it must bring to light new and substantive information regarding academic performance and/or information pertaining to extenuating circumstances that were not discussed in the application. All appeals can be submitted to [email protected] .

Special Admission Groups

Persons not enrolled full time at Reed may audit courses with the written permission of the instructor, but are restricted to no more than two courses in any academic year. Applications for auditing are due August 1 for fall courses and November 15 for spring courses.

Audited courses are not recorded on the college transcript. Auditors will not be permitted in classes that are overenrolled, capped, or filled, nor in any Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (MALS) classes. They have the privilege of active participation in the class only when the instructor grants permission. They may have access to materials relevant to the course with the written permission of the instructor. The fee for auditing is $100 per course, per semester. Auditors in laboratory and studio courses may be required to pay an additional fee.

Auditors are not matriculated students and, as a result, do not have access to student, campus, or community services. Examples include but are not limited to clubs, organizations, residence halls, events, medical resources, the dining hall, student spaces, affinity groups, financial services, student budgets, recreational facilities, athletic teams, or any other campus or student service.

Auditors are subject to the policies listed under “ Rescinding Admission ,” and may be dismissed from attending Reed classes at any time.

Auditing physical education classes is not permitted. Students who are not currently enrolled and who have recently completed a Reed thesis but need additional PE credit to graduate may register for PE and must pay the audit fee. The approval of the instructor and the Director of Athletics, Fitness, and Outdoor Programs is required.

Full-time Reed students, faculty, staff members, and the spouses or domestic partners of full-time faculty and staff members may audit courses without charge. Written approval of the appropriate instructor and faculty adviser is required. The form for auditing a class is available in the Office of Admission.

Visiting Students

Visiting students-students who wish to spend a semester or a year at Reed while working toward a degree from another college or university-may apply for admission as a visiting student. The application for visiting students is housed on the website of the International Programs Office, under “Exchange students at Reed.” Applicants must submit the application form, their most recent transcript, one letter of recommendation from a faculty member, a letter of endorsement from the applicant’s home school, and a copy of the photo page of the applicant’s passport.

Visiting student applications should be filed by April 30 for fall entrance, or by October 30 for spring entrance. Although visiting students are not eligible for financial aid, they may be able to find employment on or off campus.

Visiting students are subject to the policies listed under “ Rescinding Admission ,” and may be dismissed from attending Reed classes at any time.

On-campus housing may be arranged on a space-available basis. Visiting students who wish to stay at Reed beyond the year allotted must apply for regular transfer admission through the Common Application. More details on this program are available from the International Programs Office or the Office of Admission.

Special Students (Nondegree Students)

Those other than visiting students who wish to take one or more courses at Reed but who do not wish to attend full time or work toward a Reed degree may apply for admission as special, nondegree students. Access to college facilities is determined on a case-by-case basis and may change without notification. While they are not eligible for financial aid, they may be able to obtain employment on or off campus. They should file a Special Student application, available from the Office of Admission, before June 1 for the fall semester and November 15 for the spring semester. Fees are assessed on a per-unit basis and are listed with college costs.

Special students are subject to the policies listed under “ Rescinding Admission ,” and may be dismissed from attending Reed classes at any time.

Young Scholars Program

The Young Scholars program allows high school seniors to study concurrently at Reed. The program provides a unique opportunity each year for approximately 16 students from the metropolitan area who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and a commitment to serious study in a rigorous college setting. Eligible students must have exhausted high school curriculum options in a subject of interest, or be able to demonstrate a serious and sustained interest in a subject not offered at the high school.

An applicant must be concurrently enrolled at least half time in high school. If spaces are available after all qualified seniors have been accommodated, junior applicants may occasionally be accepted to the program. Young Scholars must commit to taking Reed coursework for the full academic year and complete the same course requirements as Reed undergraduates, and are awarded Reed credit for work successfully completed. Continued participation in the program for the second semester is contingent upon satisfactory completion of the first and the recommendation of the professor. A scholarship covers all tuition costs; student expenses include a $100 fee per semester plus books and transportation.

Admission to the Young Scholars program is highly competitive. Applications and recommendations are due by April 1 for fall admission and December 1 for spring. Information on the program and course options, along with application materials, is available at reed.edu/young_scholars . Please direct inquiries to [email protected] .

Young Scholars are subject to the policies listed under “ Rescinding Admission ,” and may be dismissed from attending Reed classes at any time. Access to college facilities is determined on a case-by-case basis and may change without notification.

Contact Information

You may reach the Office of Admission by phone at 503-777-7511 or 800-547-4750, by email at [email protected] , or by mail at Office of Admission, Reed College, 3203 SE Woodstock Blvd., Portland OR 97202-8199. Information about the application and admission process can be found at reed.edu/apply .

Alumni Relations & Volunteer Engagement

Travel study.

Travel Study is a project of alumni engagement that provides Reed alumni with the opportunity to learn while traveling to various locales. Trips are often led by a Reed professor or staff member who has expert knowledge of the place being visited and/or the topic being discussed.

If you choose to purchase travel insurance for any Reed trips, consider choosing Meyer and Associates at the link provided. You can learn more about the policies here or by calling 800-635-7801. However, you are free to use any insurance company you like for travel insurance, if you wish to purchase it.

For any questions about these trips, email [email protected] .

Upcoming Trips

Join Professor Pancho Savery in Cuba to experience a timeless yet rapidly evolving Cuba on a behind-the-scenes travel program—exclusively for Reed College alumni and parents—this October 14–20, 2023. With our home base in Havana, Cuba’s vibrant cultural and creative hub, we will delve into the fascinating history, politics, and economy of the Cuban people. I’ve led journeys to this marvelously rich country before, and I’m eager to share my insights on the communities and cultures that make Cuba so rewarding to explore. Trip highlights:

ENGAGE  in intimate discussions at the homes and studios of artists. DELIGHT  in a curator-led tour at the National Museum of Fine Arts of Havana, with its impressive collection of Cuban artworks and international masterpieces. MEET  the thought leaders who are shaping Cuban society, including the former Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, who will share profound insights on Cuban politics. VENTURE  to the picturesque Cuban countryside for a behind-the-scenes tour of a beautiful tobacco plantation led by its farmers.  DELVE  into the life of Ernest Hemingway at Finca Vigía, the house where he lived for 20 years, with a glimpse of his famous fishing boat Pilar.  

View the brochure and register today!

Travel Inquiries

To sign up to receive information about one or more trips as it becomes available, please email Alumni Relations at [email protected] .

Junior Visit Days

Need some financial aid myths busted? Wondering how to write a personal statement? Join us for Junior Visit Day—a half-day exploration of the college admission process. High school students and their families can visit Reed and take workshops from our experienced admission counselors on these and other topics. And don't be fooled by the name—sophomores are welcome, too!   Ask questions and get answers while experiencing Reed’s campus located in beautiful southeast Portland.    Junior Visit Day occurs November 18, February 17 and March 22. We offer the same program on each date. Please select your preferred visit date below. 

There are no upcoming events to display.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Study, Research, and Custom Programs Abroad

St. Petersburg and Moscow: What’s The Difference?

August 12, 2020

Our two most popular locations in Russia are St. Petersburg and Moscow. Choosing between “the two capitals” can be tough as both are rich in culture and history. We’ve asked our SRAS staff, who have long been permanently based in these two cities to map out some of the differences between them in the videos below. They discuss the feel of each city and what sort of student is most likely to thrive in these locations, as well what programming is available.

A student’s choice of location and program is always deeply personal and based on the student’s individual goals and interests. If you are looking to study abroad in an SRAS location, please contact us to discuss how our programs can best serve you.

St. Petersburg: Tourism and Culture

April Djakoniya, SRAS’ Student Services Manager and St. Petersburg resident, discusses the laid-back and culture-rich atmosphere of St. Petersburg. A city with a strong tourist industry focused on Europe, St. Petersburg is great for students interested specifically in culture, museums, or looking for a strongly supportive environment in which to study Russia and the Russian language.

Moscow: Diversity, Economy, and Diplomacy

Josh Wilson, SRAS Assistant Director, discusses the metropolis of Moscow. Here you can sample all of Russia’s diversity in terms of ethnicity, religion, and culture, but also in terms of political and social movements. Moscow is great for students interested in politics and international relations. The connections and experiences that can be made in Moscow will serve you well in future professions.

About the Author

SRAS specializes in study, research , and travel abroad to Russia and Eurasia. SRAS also maintains this site and provides free info for students studying Russia and Eurasia. Explore our resources to find out more!

View all posts by: SRAS

• All Programs
• Featured Short Term Programs
• Program Destinations
• Join An Info Session
• Online Research Internships
• SRAS Program Grants
• Learning Credits
• Health, Safety, and Etiquette
• SRAS Global Ambassador Program
• Guide to International Careers
• Meet Our Team
• Family Of Sites
• SRAS on Tour
• Advising for SRAS
• Affiliation/Partnership
• Site Visits
• Develop Your Custom Program
• Sample Itineraries
• Peer Tutoring
• Chat with Russian Speakers
• Virtual Tours
• Continuing Education
• Research Support
• Individual Student Programs
• Resources for Students of Russian
• North American Survey of Enrollments
• Guide to Archives in Russia
• SRAS Family Of Sites

9 Things to See in Moscow's Red Square

 Sir Francis Canker/Getty Images

In most cases, you'll be entering Red Square from the north, passing landmarks such as the Bolshoi Theatre and Duma parliament building as you make your way southward. Although you don't necessarily have to pass through the Voskresensky (or Resurrection in English) Gates in order to gain access to the square these days, they definitely provide a sense of arrival, to say nothing of the way their left arch frame's St. Basil's Cathedral if you look from just the right angle.

An interesting fact is that while a gate of some kind has stood here since the mid-16th century, the one you currently see wasn't built until 1994, having been destroyed in 1931 so that tanks could enter and exit Red Square during military parades.

St. Basil's Cathedral

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson 

Few sights are as iconic not only of Moscow and Red Square but indeed of Russia than St. Basil's Cathedral, whose colorful, onion-shaped domes are a symbol of the country around the world. Officially known as the Cathedral of Vasily the Blessed, this church has stood since 1561, which is quite miraculous when you consider all the turbulent history that has transpired since then.

Among other things, religion was severely prohibited during the Soviet period , which led some to believe that this emblem of the Russian Orthodox church might not withstand the tenure of the USSR. 

An interesting fact is that St. Basil's is the so-called "Kilometer Zero" of Russia; all of Moscow's main roads (which can take you anywhere in Russia) begin at the exits to Red Square. In this way, St. Basil's iconic status also has an extremely tangible element.

The Kremlin

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

When you think of The Kremlin, it's unlikely that positive images enter your mind. The fact that simply saying the word "Kremlin" is too vague a descriptor (most Russian cities have their own Kremlin complexes; you should say "Moscow Kremlin") notwithstanding, this misunderstood place is incredibly beautiful, even if you don't like the policy that comes out of it.

Senate Square

In spite of its name, which refers to the role the building that rises above the square played during Imperial Russia, Senate Square is actually home to Russia's presidential administration, currently helmed by Vladimir Putin. In order to see where Russia's legislature operates from, walk just outside Red Square to the Duma parliament building.

Dormition Cathedral

Dating back to the year 1479, the gold-domed Dormition Cathedral pays homage to an Orthodox religious feast that commemorates the death of the Virgin Mary . As is the case with St. Basil's, it is curious that such a conspicuously religious structure was able to survive through the Soviet period.

Armoury Chamber

Though it takes its name from the fact that it housed Russia's royal arsenal when it was built in the 16th century, the most notable resident of the Kremlin's Armoury Chamber today is the Russian Diamond Fund.

Notable Kremlin Towers

Robert Schrader

The interior of the Moscow Kremlin is more beautiful and inviting than you'd expect, but the walls and towers that rise around it better live up to the intimidation with which the complex is associated. 

Borovitskaya Tower

Named to commemorate the dense forest that once stood atop the mount where it's built, this tower is extremely picturesque. Built in the late 15th century, it's visible from most places in the square, and also as you walk along the Moskva River.

Nikolskaya Tower

Also built in the year 1491, this tower currently suffered destruction at the hands of Napoleon's army in the 19th century. What you see now is the result of an 1816 re-design and renovation, though artillery fire during the Russian Revolution also caused superficial damage to the tower, named to honor St. Nikolas of Mozhaysk , so it's difficult to know which elements of it are original.

Spasskaya Tower

Known in English as the "Savior's Tower," this iconic, star-topped tower is perhaps the best-known of all the Kremlin's towers. Built in 1491 like the other two towers on this list, it's certainly the most photographed. As a result of its proximity to St. Basil's, it often makes its way into tourists' pictures.

Mausoleum of Lenin

Just as it's strange to learn how many religious monuments survived through the Soviet period, it's a bit odd to think that Lenin's preserved body still sits in a mausoleum just beneath the walls of the Kremlin on Red Square, given the lack of consensus about the ultimate impact of his Revolution, even in Russia.

It's not guaranteed that you'll be able to see the body (which, believe it or not, seems to be improving with age ) when you go, and if you do you will likely have to wait in line, but even strolling past the outside of the Lenin Mausoleum, flanked by stone-faced guards that almost look like statues, illuminates the gravity of his body still being here.

GUM Shopping Center

You might cringe, at least initially, when you realize that one of the most iconic stops on a tour of Red Square is a department store—until you see said department store, that is. Built in 1893 and known during Soviet times as the State Department Store, GUM  ( Glávnyj Universáľnyj Magazín​ or Main Universal Store in English) hearkens back to the grandeur of the late 19th century, both seen from the outside (especially, when lit up at night) and the interior, which might have you feeling like you're further west in Europe.

A trip inside GUM is a particularly good idea during winter, when frigid temperatures outside will have you savoring the heat, the quality of souvenirs, confections and other goods sold inside notwithstanding. Also, make sure not to confuse GUM with CDM, which sits near the Bolshoi Theatre, even though both are stunning and iconic in their own right.

State Historical Museum

The Russian State Historical Museum is located near Voskresensky Gates, though you should wait until after you've seen the first few attractions of Red Square and the Kremlin to head back there and go inside. To be sure, as you pass by its facade (whose late-19th century grandeur somewhat obscures that fact that it's currently a museum accessible to the public) you might not even think to try and gain entry.

Once inside the museum, you can plan to spend at least a couple of hours, given that artifacts here date back to the very beginning of the Russian state in the ninth century. As is the case with GUM, this will be a particularly alluring prospect if you visit in winter, when Moscow is arguably at its most beautiful, but certainly at its least tolerable. 

Minin-Pozharsky Monument

It's somewhat easy to disregard this monument, which pays homage to the two Russian princes who ended the so-called "Time of Troubles" in the mid-16th century, during which Polish-Lithuanian forces occupied Russia, among other awful things including a famine. That's because the statue currently sits just at the base of St. Basil's Cathedral, which makes it very difficult to photograph or even see without being overwhelmed by that much more famous edifice.

Though the statue originally sat at the very center of Red Square, it came to be an obstacle to the movement of tanks during the Soviet period, much like the Voskresensky Gates. As a result, authorities moved it during that time, and it's stayed where you currently find it ever since.

Kazan Cathedral

Taken by itself, the smokey-pink Kazan Cathedral is an architectural marvel; originally built in the 17th century, the church you find here today, located just north of the GUM department store, dates back only to 1993.

Unfortunately, since it sits not only in the shadow of GUM, but also in the shadow St. Basil's and the Towers of the Kremlin, it's easy to miss entirely if you aren't looking. As a result, you might wait until you've seen just about everything else in Red Square before coming here to take photos, and to appreciate the understated beauty of this oft-overlooked cathedral.

Moskva River

As you head south from St. Basil's Cathedral to exit Red Square, make sure to walk onto Bolshoy Moskvoretskiy Bridge, which crosses the Moskva River. If you look due north, you can get an excellent shot of the church framed, on the left, by the towers of the Kremlin. Directing your gaze a bit to the west allows you to see the skyscrapers of Moscow City as they rise above the Kremlin's walls.

Walking westward along the riverbank is also a worthwhile excursion, for the views it provides of Red Square and the Kremlin, as well as the fact that doing so takes you to other iconic Moscow attractions, including Gorky Park and the Pushkin Museum. The views you enjoy from the river and the bridge are particularly stunning at night, though you should make sure you bring a tripod if you want to get a clear picture, given how strong winds over and near the river can be.

Moscow - Russian Rivers and Waterways Port of Call

Moscow Metro: The Complete Guide

25 Best Things to Do in Moscow

The Impressive Castles of Eastern Europe

St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow: Planning Your Visit

St. Petersburg, Russia

10 Must-Visit Palaces and Castles in Russia

Top 12 Things to Do in Kazan, Russia

The Top 12 Things to Do in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia

The Top 12 Things to Do in Astrakhan

Soviet Sights in Moscow – Moscow USSR Sites

A Guide to the 4th Arrondissement in Paris

The Top 15 Places to Visit in Russia

The Top 12 Things to Do in Novgorod, Russia

The Top 15 Things to Do in Bordeaux, France

A Guide to Moscow: Capital of Russia, City of Domes

• More Sports
• FanNation FanNation FanNation
• SI.COM SI.COM SI.COM
• SI Swimsuit SI Swimsuit SI Swimsuit
• SI Sportsbook SI Sportsbook SI Sportsbook
• SI Tickets SI Tickets SI Tickets
• SI Showcase SI Showcase SI Showcase
• SI Resorts SI Resorts SI Resorts

© Hayden Bradley

3-Star TE Hayden Bradley Puts Michigan In Top 5

Not long after hosting 2025 TE Hayden Bradley on campus for a visit, Michigan has landed in the top five for the three-star prospect.

• Author: Eric Rutter

In this story:

Earlier in the month, Michigan hosted Buford (Ga.) three-star tight end Hayden Bradley on campus to watch some spring practices and tour the facility, and the visit was a sweeping success according to the coveted Division I prospect. 

In fact, Michigan made such a positive impression that the Wolverines earned a definitive official visit from Bradley later in the cycle. Now, Bradley has released his top five schools, and Michigan was planted firmly within that group. 

AND THEN THERE WAS 5‼️ AGTG🙏🏼 @CoachSBeamer @Coach_SMoore @Lane_Kiffin @coach_bnapier @coachjfranklin @Coach_Davis22 @buford_football @CoachDash @JohnGarcia_Jr @RivalsFriedman @adamgorney @ChadSimmons_ @LemmingReport @AnnaH247 @Rivals @On3Recruits @247recruiting pic.twitter.com/zjKLT0j4u9 — Hayden Bradley (@Hayden_bradleyy) April 24, 2024

“Michigan is the place to be as a tight end,” Bradley told Wolverine Digest. “They consistently push tight ends to the next level, and the tight end position is a priority to their offense.”

Though he’s receiving interest from various schools as a receiver, Bradley has fully accepted that he may be a better fit in college as a tight end, and he sees Michigan as a tight end-producing factory in recent years. 

Additionally, Bradley has a few familiar faces in Ann Arbor to lean on as he continues to develop as a tight end, and they’ve done a quality job of recruiting the strong, athletic tight end to Michigan as well. 

“Me, Marlin [Klein] and Colston [Loveland] all formed a great relationship while I was up in Ann Arbor,” Bradley said. “Me and Marlin hit it off really well since we are both from the same area. He has been texting me about how great Michigan really is and how I can go there and get produced.”

As Bradley said, both Klein and Bradley lived near each other in Georgia, so they’ve been friends for quite some time. While in Ann Arbor, Bradley also met with the U-M coaching staff and was pitched on playing the same role as star tight end Loveland, which is a very attractive opportunity to the 6-5, 220-pounder. 

READ MORE: 2024 NFL Draft: JJ McCarthy Mocked To New England Patriots At No. 3 Overall

From a recruiting perspective, Michigan is joined by South Carolina, Penn State, Ole Miss and Florida in Bradley’s top five, so those are the four other schools U-M will be competing against to earn a commitment from the big red zone target. 

Currently, Michigan has one tight end already committed in the 2025 class in Alcoa (Tenn.) four-star Eli Owens , so the staff looks prepared to take a pair of tight ends in this cycle. 

What do you make of Michigan’s 2025 recruiting thus far? Let us know and follow @EricJRutter on Twitter for more Wolverine Digest updates. 

Latest Wolverine News

How Well Do You Know Big Ten Athletic Directors?

Tarris Reed Jr. Hits Transfer Portal

4-Star PF Khani Rooths Decommits From Michigan

BREAKING: Dug McDaniel Is In The Transfer Portal

Big Ten Daily (March 18): Ohio State Makes Right Call, Hires Jake Diebler as Basketball Coach