U.S. College Road Trip! Episode 17 - Linfield University, McMinnville, OR

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Linfield University (I went with the old logo because I think it is more interesting) is a private university with campuses in McMinnville and Portland, Oregon. Linfield University is committed to educating the whole person, inside and outside the classroom. The university offers a sense of genuine community and wholehearted intellectual exchange that students crave but rarely find. Linfield is a private university with a strong liberal arts core, a commitment to community, and a winning tradition on the field and in the classroom. Linfield’s football program has had winning seasons since 1956. Unfortunately many of those wins were over my alma mater Willamette.

Notable alumni include author Amy Tan, basketball coach Mark Few and Joe Welsh. Why Linfield? 

1. A Campus With Real Personality

Linfield isn’t just a school—it’s a community where students actually get to know their professors, classmates, and probably the guy who makes your morning coffee in downtown McMinnville.

2. Academic Excellence, Minus the Ego

Linfield offers 55 bachelor’s degrees with a broad liberal arts core and strong programs in business, religious studies, education, and nursing. Students also get access to accelerated study, cross-registration, distance learning, and even dual enrollment in high school—because why wait to start your college journey?

3. Athletics: Football, Wildcats, and an Unbroken Streak

Linfield’s football program has had winning seasons since 1956, which, frankly, is both impressive and slightly frustrating if you went to a rival school (cough Willamette cough). Competing in NCAA Division III Northwest Conference, Linfield Wildcats win a lot, and the school spirit is alive and well.

4. Diversity That’s Recognized

Linfield’s commitment to diversity has earned it recognition from Washington Monthly from 2017-2022, placing it on the list of “Best Ethnic Diversity Among Liberal Arts Colleges in the Pacific”. Translation: You’ll meet people from all walks of life who bring different perspectives and experiences to the table.

5. The Best of Both Worlds: Small-Town McMinnville + Portland Perks

• McMinnville, Oregon = A peaceful, scenic college town known for world-famous wineries, farmers’ markets, and an annual UFO Festival (yes, really—this town is very into extraterrestrials).

• Portland, Oregon Campus = Big-city perks, including internships, networking opportunities, and cultural experiences—all just an hour away.

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6. A Great School That’s Actually Attainable

With a 79% acceptance rate, Linfield welcomes hardworking students who want a top-tier education without the cutthroat admissions process. The middle SAT range is 1040-1230, which means if you put in the effort, you have a solid shot at getting in.

Here’s the link for admissions to learn more. https://www.linfield.edu/admission/ Go Wildcats!

Feeling overwhelmed with the university admissions process? We can help. Check out our website and schedule an appointment with a counselor to see exactly how we can help you find your best fit school and make your application the strongest it can be.

Linfield Alum? Any insight into your experiences would be amazing. At Next Level College Application we do not have an agenda other than helping our clients find the schools that are the best fit for them.