Since its founding in 1866, Hope College has been affiliated with the Reformed Church in America. Because Hope was founded by settlers from the Netherlands, its athletic teams have a distinct Dutch touch, including their nickname. The Dutch roots also led to the selection of orange and blue as the school's colors.

Hope College's current student body is comprised of students from 40 states and 23 foreign countries. A broad cross section of faiths is represented at Hope College, which offers courses in 89 majors, leading to a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Music, Bachelor of Science, or Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.

Hope College has been a member of the NCAA since 1956 and a member of the MIAA since 1926.