Earlham College and Friends School of Baltimore announce new direct admissions pathway

For students educated in the Quaker tradition, the transition from high school to college is becoming more direct and accessible. Earlham College and Friends School of Baltimore have announced a new agreement designed to remove barriers and offer guaranteed admission for qualified students. 

Friends School of Baltimore students who graduate in good academic standing with a cumulative GPA of 3.25 or higher will receive direct admission to Earlham College, beginning with the Class of 2027. As part of this pathway, Earlham is also guaranteeing eligible students a significant merit aid scholarship, helping to make a national liberal arts education both accessible and affordable. 

“Friends School of Baltimore and Earlham College share deep roots and believe in the power of education to open doors and prepare students for lives of purpose,” said Jeffrey Perkins, Earlham College’s vice president for enrollment management, marketing, and communications. “This pathway reflects our commitment to reducing barriers for academically strong students from around the world, while sustaining impactful relationships with Quaker institutions that share our values and educational philosophy.” 

Founded in 1784, Friends School of Baltimore is a co-educational day school and the oldest school in Baltimore, Maryland. It serves about 830 students, including Little Friends Early Learning Center, and grades pre-K to 12, on its 34-acre campus in the city’s Homeland neighborhood. 

Leaders from the Friends School of Baltimore say the agreement provides students with greater clarity and confidence as they consider the transition to college. 

“This partnership with Earlham College creates a meaningful opportunity for Friends School students to envision themselves at a national liberal arts college that values intellectual curiosity, global engagement, and community,” said Josh Carlin, 12th Grade Dean and Coordinator of the University Partnership Program at Friends School of Baltimore. “Earlham’s academic excellence, Quaker foundation, and commitment to access make it a natural fit for our students.” 
 

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About Earlham College 

Earlham College and Earlham School of Religion foster a collaborative learning community that inspires and motivates students with transformative opportunities and experiences so they can become catalysts for good in a changing world. Located in Richmond, Indiana, Earlham is one of U.S. News & World Report’s Top 100 national liberal arts colleges and offers one of the top 20 classroom experiences in the nation, according to the Princeton Review.

About Friends School of Baltimore

Founded in 1784 as Baltimore’s first school, Friends School has a 240-year legacy of innovative, values-driven education. Rooted in Quaker principles, Friends fosters a learning environment centered on critical thinking, communication, and leadership. Students are encouraged to explore diverse interests in academics, athletics, and the arts, developing a deep love of learning that extends beyond graduation. Guided by the testimonies of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship, Friends nurtures an inclusive community where all voices are heard and valued. Alumni leave with the confidence, adaptability, and ethical foundation to succeed in life and contribute meaningfully to the world.