What is Washington University in St. Louis's acceptance rate?

Washington University in St. Louis's acceptance rate is 10%, which makes it highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant.

What SAT or ACT score do you need for WashU?

Admitted students typically score about 1470–1560 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 33–35 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.

Is WashU test-optional?

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

Washington University in St. Louis Acceptance Rate & How to Get In (10%)

10%

Acceptance rate

1470–1560

SAT (mid 50%)

33–35

ACT (mid 50%)

Test-optional

Testing

How hard is it to get into WashU?

With a 10% acceptance rate, Washington University in St. Louis is highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant. It enrolls roughly 8,200 undergraduates (suburban setting) in St. Louis, MO. 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 1470–1560 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
ACT: the middle 50% is about 33–35.
GPA: admitted students average around 3.93. 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 WashU's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $63,400 per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Pre-Med · Business (Olin) · Architecture · Engineering

See WashU’s supplemental essay guide

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WashU admissions FAQ

What is Washington University in St. Louis's acceptance rate?: Washington University in St. Louis's acceptance rate is 10%, which makes it highly selective — a reach for nearly every applicant.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for WashU?: Admitted students typically score about 1470–1560 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 33–35 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is WashU test-optional?: Washington University in St. Louis's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

WashU official website
WashU 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 University in St. Louis’s official admissions site.