Friends School Announces Direct Admission Partnerships with Local and Quaker Colleges and Universities

Friends School of Baltimore has established transformative new partnerships with local and Quaker colleges and universities that share a commitment to academic excellence and access. Through its University Partnership Program, Friends School now offers guaranteed admission pathways for students in good academic standing to The Catholic University of America, Earlham College, Goucher College, Guilford College, Loyola University Maryland, McDaniel College, Stevenson University, and Washington College.

Rooted in a shared belief that education opens doors, these partnerships build on Friends School’s exceptional college-preparatory program by providing eligible students with direct admission and, at all institutions except Guilford College, guaranteed merit-based scholarships. At a time when the cost of higher education continues to rise, and college admissions remain competitive, these opportunities offer families added clarity while connecting students to academic communities where they are well prepared to thrive.

“These partnerships demonstrate the exceptional reputation of Friends School and the caliber of our students and educators,” said Josh Carlin, 12th grade dean and coordinator of the University Partnership Program at Friends School. “They also speak to a shared commitment with our partner institutions to reduce barriers and create clear, accessible pathways to college.”

Two of the partner institutions, Earlham College and Guilford College, are Quaker, grounded in an educational philosophy aligned with Friends School and centered on integrity, community, and service to the greater good. “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.

The remaining partner colleges, located in Maryland and Washington, D.C., offer local options for students seeking academically challenging college environments.

In addition to student opportunities, the partnership with Goucher College extends benefits to educators. Friends School faculty and staff receive a 20% graduate tuition discount at Goucher, complementing the 75% graduate tuition support Friends already provides eligible employees. This investment reflects the central role faculty play in shaping students’ intellectual growth and underscores the belief that supporting educators’ continued learning strengthens the entire school community.

About the Friends School University Partnership Program:

Launched in 2011 as the first program of its kind in the Baltimore metro area, Friends School’s University Partnership Program connects students and teachers with professors, researchers, and thought leaders from colleges and universities across the country. The program emphasizes applying classroom learning to real-world challenges and expanding what students can do—and where they can go.

Contact Josh Carlin, 12th Grade Dean, Coordinator of the University Partnership Program, jcarlin@friendsbalt.org for more information.