Admissions: 58% of the 1997-98 applicants were accepted. The SAT I scores for the 1997-98 freshman class were: VerbaI-32% between 500 and 599, 41% between 600 and 700, and 27% above 700; Math–20% between 500 and 599, 47% between 600 and 700, and 32% above 700. The ACT scores were 30% between 24 and 26, 20% between 27 and 28, and 50% above 28. 85% of the current freshmen were in the top fifth of their class; 96% were in the top two fifths. There were 2 National Merit finalists and 7 semifinalists. 8 freshmen graduated first in their class.

Requirements: The SAT I or ACT is recommended. Candidates for admission must be high school graduates who have completed 4 years of English, 3 to 4 of math, 2 to 3 of science, 2 of a foreign language, and 1 of history. Applications are accepted on computer disk and online. AP and CLEP credits are accepted. Important factors in the admissions decision are advanced placement or honor courses, leadership record, and personality/intangible qualities.

Procedure: Freshmen are admitted to all sessions. Entrance exams should be taken in the junior or senior year. There are early decision, early admissions, and deferred admissions plans. Early decision applications should be filed by January 1; regular applications, by March 1 for fall entry, November 15 for winter entry, and February 15 for spring entry, along with a $50 fee. Notification of early decision is sent December 15; regular decision, April 1. 38 early decision candidates were accepted for the 1997-98 class. 3% of all applicants are on a waiting list.

Transfer: 22 transfer students enrolled in 1997-98. 18 credits of 36 must be completed at COA.

Visiting: There are regularly scheduled orientations for prospective students. There are guides for informal visits and visitors may sit in on classes and stay overnight. To schedule a visit, contact Donna McFar-land.

Financial Aid: In 1997-98. 65% of all freshmen and 51% of continuing students received some form of financial aid. 65% of freshmen and 51% of continuing students received need-based aid. The average freshman award was $13,144. Of that total, scholarships or need-based grants averaged $8700 ($20,000 maximum); loans averaged $2900 ($5000 maximum); and work contracts averaged $1500 ($1800 maximum). 86% of undergraduates work part time. Average annual earnings from campus work are $1560. The average financial indebtedness of the 1997 graduate was $17,125. COA is a member of CSS. The FAF-SA and the college’s own financial statement are required. The fall application deadline is February 15.

International Students: There are 8 international students enrolled. The school actively recruits these students. They must score 550 on the TOEFL.

Computers: More than 40 PCs, including Dell System 220/325, IBM XT and AT, and Macintosh, are available in 2 computer centers and a science lab- The graphics lab contains 7 workstations and peripherals. There is Internet access in each dormitory room, with worldwide E-mail capability. All students may access the system 24 hours a day. There are no time limits and no fees.