Selective52% Acceptance Rate

Chances of Getting Into DePauw University

Greencastle, Indiana Private University • #53 National • Founded 1837

DePauw Admissions Statistics 2025–2026

52%
Acceptance Rate
3.55
Average GPA
1270
Average SAT
29
Average ACT
6,500+
Total Applicants
500
Class Size
9:1
Student-Faculty Ratio

DePauw SAT & ACT Scores

SAT Scores (Middle 50%)

Score Range1180-1360
Average1270
10001600

ACT Scores (Middle 50%)

Score Range26-31
Average29
2036

About DePauw University

DePauw University is a liberal arts college in Greencastle, Indiana, known for producing leaders in media, business, and public service. The Management Fellows and Media Fellows programs are signature experiential learning experiences.

Top Programs

EconomicsCommunicationPolitical ScienceBiologyEnglish

What Makes DePauw Unique

  • Management Fellows — semester-long internship with top companies
  • Media Fellows — semester in NYC or DC media organizations
  • Produces a disproportionate number of CEOs and media leaders
  • Winter Term for intensive study or off-campus experiences
  • Strong Greek life and campus traditions

DePauw Cost & Financial Aid

Cost of Attendance

Tuition$56,750/yr
Total Cost$72,400/yr
Median Earnings (10yr)$58,600/yr

Financial Aid

Students Receiving Aid60%
Avg Aid Package$36,000+
School TypePrivate

DePauw Application Deadlines

Regular Decision
February 1
Early Decision
November 15
ED Acceptance Rate: ~70%
Early Action
November 15

How to Get Into DePauw: Admission Tips

1

DePauw ED acceptance rate (~70%) is very strong

2

Management and Media Fellows programs should be highlighted in essays

3

DePauw values leadership potential and initiative

4

Merit scholarships are generous — strong students get significant aid

5

Greek life is prominent — factor this into your fit assessment

The Brutal Truth About DePauw Admissions

The numbers are brutal. With a 52% acceptance rate, DePauw rejected over 3,120 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.

Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At DePauw, having a 3.55 GPA and 1270 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. DePauw 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 DePauw genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 52%-acceptance-rate basket.

DePauw Admissions FAQ

What is the acceptance rate at DePauw University?

DePauw University has an acceptance rate of 52% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 6,500+ applicants, approximately 500 students were admitted to the incoming class.

What GPA do I need to get into DePauw?

The average GPA of admitted students at DePauw University is 3.55. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.40, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.

What SAT score do I need for DePauw?

The middle 50% SAT range for admitted DePauw students is 1180-1360. The average SAT score is 1270. For ACT, the range is 26-31 with an average of 29.

Is DePauw hard to get into?

Yes, DePauw University is selective with an acceptance rate of just 52%. 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 DePauw cost?

Tuition at DePauw University is $56,750 per year, with total cost of attendance at $72,400. However, 60% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $36,000+.

What are my chances of getting into DePauw?

Your chances of getting into DePauw University depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 52% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.

Free — No credit card required

What Are Your Chances at DePauw?

Enter your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars. Get a personalized, brutally honest assessment of your odds — plus scholarship estimates.

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