Selective37% Acceptance Rate

Chances of Getting Into University of Rochester

Rochester, New York Private University • #47 National • Founded 1850

Rochester Admissions Statistics 2025–2026

37%
Acceptance Rate
3.75
Average GPA
1410
Average SAT
33
Average ACT
21,000+
Total Applicants
1,400
Class Size
10:1
Student-Faculty Ratio

Rochester SAT & ACT Scores

SAT Scores (Middle 50%)

Score Range1330-1490
Average1410
10001600

ACT Scores (Middle 50%)

Score Range31-34
Average33
2036

About University of Rochester

The University of Rochester combines a top-tier research university with an open curriculum (one of only a few in the nation). Home to the Eastman School of Music (top 5 worldwide) and the Institute of Optics (only one of its kind), Rochester punches far above its weight in specific fields.

Top Programs

OpticsMusic (Eastman)EconomicsNursingData Science

What Makes Rochester Unique

  • Open curriculum — no required courses outside your major
  • Eastman School of Music — one of the best in the world
  • Institute of Optics — the only program of its kind in the US
  • Strong medical center (URMC) for pre-med opportunities
  • Rochester Curriculum clusters for interdisciplinary exploration

Rochester Cost & Financial Aid

Cost of Attendance

Tuition$62,680/yr
Total Cost$81,400/yr
Median Earnings (10yr)$68,100/yr

Financial Aid

Students Receiving Aid55%
Avg Aid Package$42,000+
School TypePrivate

Rochester Application Deadlines

Regular Decision
January 5
Early Decision
November 1
ED Acceptance Rate: ~45%

How to Get Into Rochester: Admission Tips

1

Rochester heavily values demonstrated interest — ED, campus visits, and engagement matter

2

ED acceptance rate (~45%) is much higher than RD

3

If applying for music (Eastman), audition is paramount

4

Mention the open curriculum and explain YOUR academic vision

5

Merit scholarships are available and generous

The Brutal Truth About Rochester Admissions

The numbers are brutal. With a 37% acceptance rate, Rochester rejected over 13,230 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.

Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At Rochester, having a 3.75 GPA and 1410 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. Rochester 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 Rochester genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 37%-acceptance-rate basket.

Rochester Admissions FAQ

What is the acceptance rate at University of Rochester?

University of Rochester has an acceptance rate of 37% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 21,000+ applicants, approximately 1,400 students were admitted to the incoming class.

What GPA do I need to get into Rochester?

The average GPA of admitted students at University of Rochester is 3.75. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.60, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.

What SAT score do I need for Rochester?

The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Rochester students is 1330-1490. The average SAT score is 1410. For ACT, the range is 31-34 with an average of 33.

Is Rochester hard to get into?

Yes, University of Rochester is selective with an acceptance rate of just 37%. 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 Rochester cost?

Tuition at University of Rochester is $62,680 per year, with total cost of attendance at $81,400. However, 55% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $42,000+.

What are my chances of getting into Rochester?

Your chances of getting into University of Rochester depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 37% 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 Rochester?

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

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