What is Washington and Lee University's acceptance rate?

Washington and Lee University's acceptance rate is 14.0%, which makes it highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant.

What SAT or ACT score do you need for Washington and Lee University?

Admitted students typically score about 1430–1540 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 33–34 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.

Is Washington and Lee University test-optional?

Washington and Lee University's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Washington and Lee University Acceptance Rate & How to Get In (14.0%)

14.0%

Acceptance rate

1430–1540

SAT (mid 50%)

33–34

ACT (mid 50%)

Test-optional

Testing

How hard is it to get into Washington and Lee University?

With a 14.0% acceptance rate, Washington and Lee University is highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant. It enrolls roughly 1,886 undergraduates (small town setting) in Lexington, VA. 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 1430–1540 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
ACT: the middle 50% is about 33–34.
GPA: admitted students average around 3.96. 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 Washington and Lee University's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $68,045 per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Business Administration · Accounting · Politics · Economics

See the Common App personal-statement guide

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Washington and Lee University admissions FAQ

What is Washington and Lee University's acceptance rate?: Washington and Lee University's acceptance rate is 14.0%, which makes it highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for Washington and Lee University?: Admitted students typically score about 1430–1540 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 33–34 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is Washington and Lee University test-optional?: Washington and Lee University's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

Washington and Lee University official website
Washington and Lee University on College Scorecard (U.S. Department of Education)
Admissions figures compiled from the Common Data Set and IPEDS.

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