Williamsburg, VA · Admissions

William & Mary

Acceptance Rate & How to Get In

William & Mary has a 33% acceptance rate, making it very selective — competitive, but within reach for strong applicants. Admitted students score around 1330–1490 on the SAT. Here is what the numbers say it takes to get in.

33%
Acceptance rate
1330–1490
SAT (mid 50%)
30–34
ACT (mid 50%)
Test-optional
Testing

How hard is it to get into W&M?

With a 33% acceptance rate, William & Mary is very selective — competitive, but within reach for strong applicants. It enrolls roughly 6,800 undergraduates (small town setting) in Williamsburg, VA. Solid grades, a sensible test plan, and thoughtful essays go a long way here.

What it takes to get in

  • SAT: admitted students land around 1330–1490 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
  • ACT: the middle 50% is about 30–34.
  • GPA: admitted students average around 3.87. 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 W&M's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $49,400 out-of-state ($24,100 in-state) per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Government · Marine Science · Business (Mason) · Public Service

See W&M’s supplemental essay guide

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W&M admissions FAQ

What is William & Mary's acceptance rate?
William & Mary's acceptance rate is 33%, which makes it very selective — competitive, but within reach for strong applicants.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for W&M?
Admitted students typically score about 1330–1490 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 30–34 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is W&M test-optional?
William & Mary'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 William & Mary’s official admissions site.