New Orleans, LA · Admissions

Tulane University

Acceptance Rate & How to Get In

Tulane University has a 13% acceptance rate, making it highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant. Admitted students score around 1350–1500 on the SAT. Here is what the numbers say it takes to get in.

13%
Acceptance rate
1350–1500
SAT (mid 50%)
31–34
ACT (mid 50%)
Test-optional
Testing

How hard is it to get into Tulane?

With a 13% acceptance rate, Tulane University is highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant. It enrolls roughly 8,200 undergraduates (urban setting) in New Orleans, LA. At this level, strong grades and scores are the baseline, not the differentiator — your essays and what makes you distinctive carry real weight.

What it takes to get in

  • SAT: admitted students land around 1350–1500 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
  • ACT: the middle 50% is about 31–34.
  • GPA: admitted students average around 3.8. Rigor (APs/IB/honors) matters as much as the number.
  • Testing policy: Test-optional. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
  • Essays: at Tulane's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $64,000 per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Public Health · Architecture · Latin American Studies · Community Service

See Tulane’s supplemental essay guide

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Tulane admissions FAQ

What is Tulane University's acceptance rate?
Tulane University's acceptance rate is 13%, which makes it highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for Tulane?
Admitted students typically score about 1350–1500 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 31–34 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is Tulane test-optional?
Tulane University's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on Tulane University’s official admissions site.