What is Williams College's acceptance rate?

Williams College's acceptance rate is 8.3%, which makes it highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant.

What SAT or ACT score do you need for Williams College?

Admitted students typically score about 1500–1560 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 34–35 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.

Is Williams College test-optional?

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

Williams College Acceptance Rate & How to Get In (8.3%)

8.3%

Acceptance rate

1500–1560

SAT (mid 50%)

34–35

ACT (mid 50%)

Test-optional

Testing

How hard is it to get into Williams College?

With a 8.3% acceptance rate, Williams College is highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant. It enrolls roughly 2,115 undergraduates (small town setting) in Williamstown, MA. 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 1500–1560 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
ACT: the middle 50% is about 34–35.
GPA: admitted students average around 4.07. 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 Williams College's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $68,560 per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Economics · Political Science · Mathematics · Biology

See the Common App personal-statement guide

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Williams College admissions FAQ

What is Williams College's acceptance rate?: Williams College's acceptance rate is 8.3%, which makes it highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for Williams College?: Admitted students typically score about 1500–1560 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 34–35 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is Williams College test-optional?: Williams College's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

Williams College official website
Williams College 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 Williams College’s official admissions site.