January Admission Explained

Congratulations on being offered a spot in Hamilton’s “Jan” class. The following information may be helpful as you consider the opportunity to participate in Hamilton’s January Admission Program.

Hamilton Jans are free to spend their fall doing something that interests them, from community service and travel to outdoor adventures and full-time work. Many students will pursue credit-bearing opportunities at an accredited institution or a partner program to earn transfer credit prior to their arrival. Through transfer credit, AP/IB credit or summer coursework, the majority of students who join the Hamilton community in January graduate on time with the rest of their class.

Partner Programs

• Arcadia University provides two programs for Hamilton students, with credit-bearing and pre-approved courses. Students can study in London, England, or Perugia, Italy. Limited financial aid is available through Arcadia University.
  • Program Application Deadlines: Perugia, April 15; London, May 15 
• The School for Field Studies (SFS) offers research-intensive programs for field study with faculty who are experts in ecology, environmental policy, resource management, and socioeconomics in locations that range from the coral reefs of Turks and Caicos to the savannas of Kenya. Courses are credit-bearing and pre-approved.
  • Program Application Deadlines: Rolling (space is limited)
• Verto Education provides a program in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Students study in this vibrant capital city, taking credit-bearing courses designed to transfer to Hamilton while engaging with Argentine culture, language, and history. The program combines rigorous academics with immersive local experiences.
  • Program Application Deadline: July 1

While many students choose — and in some cases prefer — Hamilton’s January option, we recognize that it isn’t for everyone. For those who are uncertain about this possibility, the admission committee encourages you to compare this offer to other more traditional ones you might receive, and be thoughtful about the decision that is in your best interest. 

For additional information about January admission, please contact Niki Barron ’02, associate dean of admission, at 1-800-843-2655 or nbarron@hamilton.edu.