Chances of Getting Into Washington University in St. Louis
St. Louis, Missouri • Private University • #24 National • Founded 1853
WashU Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
WashU SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About Washington University in St. Louis
Washington University in St. Louis is a top-tier private research university known for its interdisciplinary approach, generous financial aid, and beautiful 169-acre campus. With a 12% acceptance rate, WashU offers a collaborative academic environment with strengths across arts & sciences, engineering, and business.
Top Programs
What Makes WashU Unique
- No-loan financial aid — replaces loans with grants for qualifying students
- Flexible curriculum allows easy double-majoring across schools
- The Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts is nationally renowned
- Located in Forest Park area — one of the largest urban parks in the U.S.
- Strong pre-med track with affiliated Barnes-Jewish Hospital (top-10 nationally)
WashU Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
WashU Application Deadlines
How to Get Into WashU: Admission Tips
Early Decision significantly boosts chances — ~25% ED acceptance rate vs ~8% RD
WashU values demonstrated interest — visit campus, attend virtual events, engage with reps
Supplemental essays should show specific knowledge of WashU programs and culture
Test-optional but submitting strong scores (1490+) is advantageous
Interdisciplinary interests are highly valued — show breadth and depth
The Brutal Truth About WashU Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 12% acceptance rate, WashU rejected over 28,823 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At WashU, having a 3.94 GPA and 1520 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. WashU 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 WashU genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 12%-acceptance-rate basket.
WashU Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at Washington University in St. Louis?
Washington University in St. Louis has an acceptance rate of 12% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 32,753 applicants, approximately 1,780 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into WashU?
The average GPA of admitted students at Washington University in St. Louis is 3.94. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.79, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for WashU?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted WashU students is 1490–1560. The average SAT score is 1520. For ACT, the range is 33–35 with an average of 34.
Is WashU hard to get into?
Yes, Washington University in St. Louis is very selective with an acceptance rate of just 12%. 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 WashU cost?
Tuition at Washington University in St. Louis is $63,373 per year, with total cost of attendance at $85,242. However, 53% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $57,000+.
What are my chances of getting into WashU?
Your chances of getting into Washington University in St. Louis depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 12% 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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Popular Majors at WashU
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