Chances of Getting Into Amherst College
Amherst, Massachusetts • Private University • #2 National • Founded 1821
Amherst Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
Amherst SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About Amherst College
Amherst College is one of the most prestigious liberal arts colleges in the nation, known for its open curriculum that allows students complete freedom to choose their courses. As part of the Five College Consortium with UMass Amherst, Smith, Mount Holyoke, and Hampshire, students access a vastly expanded academic universe.
Top Programs
What Makes Amherst Unique
- Completely open curriculum — no distribution requirements
- Part of the Five College Consortium (cross-register at 4 other schools)
- One of the wealthiest liberal arts colleges ($3.8B endowment)
- Need-blind admissions with 100% demonstrated need met
- NCAA Division III athletics with strong school spirit
Amherst Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
Amherst Application Deadlines
How to Get Into Amherst: Admission Tips
Amherst's ED acceptance rate (~33%) is significantly higher than RD — apply ED if it's your top choice
The open curriculum means you should show intellectual breadth AND depth
Amherst values writing — your essays carry enormous weight
Demonstrated interest doesn't formally matter but engagement shows fit
Research the Five College Consortium to show you understand the community
The Brutal Truth About Amherst Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 7.3% acceptance rate, Amherst rejected over 13,720 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At Amherst, having a 3.92 GPA and 1510 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.
The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. Amherst doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.
Bottom line: Apply if Amherst genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 7.3%-acceptance-rate basket.
Amherst Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at Amherst College?
Amherst College has an acceptance rate of 7.3% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 14,800+ applicants, approximately 480 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into Amherst?
The average GPA of admitted students at Amherst College is 3.92. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.77, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for Amherst?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Amherst students is 1460-1560. The average SAT score is 1510. For ACT, the range is 33-35 with an average of 34.
Is Amherst hard to get into?
Yes, Amherst College is highly selective with an acceptance rate of just 7.3%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.
How much does Amherst cost?
Tuition at Amherst College is $67,180 per year, with total cost of attendance at $86,500. However, 60% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $64,000+.
What are my chances of getting into Amherst?
Your chances of getting into Amherst College depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 7.3% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.
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