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Taste of Carleton


Taste of Carleton (TOC) is an all-expenses-paid fly-in program for high school seniors. It’s held every fall for students who apply and are invited to attend. See the timeline for Taste of Carleton 2023 below!

Application Open: June 1 – August 7

Decisions Released: Late-August

Program Dates: October 8-10

We are pleased to invite high school senior students to sample one of the nation’s best liberal arts colleges! Nestled in historic Northfield, MN, Carleton College is home to some of the most exceptional professors and extraordinary students in the country. Our students represent all 50 states, several U.S. territories, and over 55 countries. 32% of our students identify as Asian, Black or African American, Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, Hispanic, Native American/Alaska native, or more than one race, and 11% of our students come to us from outside the United States. We value diversity of all types on campus, and we strive for a student body that’s representative of as many different backgrounds as possible.

As part of this commitment to diversity, we host several programs for traditionally underrepresented students. The Taste of Carleton (TOC) program offers students a chance to get just that — a taste of Carleton College! The selection committee will give priority to students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds. We particularly encourage students of color, first-generation college students, and low-income students to apply.

What happens at Taste of Carleton?

Students will have access to sessions throughout the day and can customize a schedule that fits their needs. You will be able to:

  • Hear more about Carleton from an admissions officer.
  • Attend a class that suits your interests: anything from Principles of Psychology, to Genes and Evolution, to Latinas in Hollywood (TBD).
  • Attend convocation, our weekly lecture series (Friday session only).
  • Have an interview with a member of the admissions staff.
  • Get your questions answered by current students at a Q&A session.

Sound good to you?

Complete the online application! Key dates:

  • July: Applications due
  • August: Applicants notified
  • October: Taste of Carleton in Northfield, MN!

To stay connected and receive email reminders about Taste of Carleton, sign up to receive more information.

Questions?

Contact our office at 507-222-5939 or email toc@carleton.edu. We look forward to hearing from you!

student in front of colorful wall
I really enjoyed the freedom in out-of-class scheduling to allow us to explore Carleton on our own and at our own pace, as if we’re real Carls.
Fikir Beyene
Oxford, Mississippi
Student smiling in a selfie
I think the people I met were what made this experience amazing for me; everyone I made were very welcoming, friendly, and passionate. I loved Carleton’s student environment and the beautiful campus.
Jessie Xin
Jenkintown, Pennsylvania
Young man smiling on the beach
The experience, collaboration, learning, all of it was pretty beautiful. Combined with the campus setting made it an excellent trip.
Isaiah Flores
Amarillo, Texas
Selfie of a young female student
I loved being able to attend a class and just be on campus. It gave me a nice feel of the environment by just blending in. I also appreciated the freedom to control what I did. I went to different buildings and sometimes had conversations with actual students. I also enjoyed being able to talk with other TOC attendees about more than Carleton.
Regina Anyaegbunam
Elkhorn, Nebraska
photo of student
During TOC, I felt that I belonged the moment I stepped into the Sayles Cafe and the libe. Having lively conversations with other Carls made me feel like I hadn't left my friends in California. Students assured me that even with the challenges of culture shock, I will be able to step out of my comfort zone knowing TRIO and the rest of the community are there to support me.
Ozzy Cota
North Hills, Ca.