How to Get into Tufts: Admission Requirements and Tips

So you want to know how to get into Tufts University? Great choice! But here’s the deal: Tufts doesn’t just let anyone in. For the Class of 2028, only 3,957 students made the cut out of 34,432 applicants. That’s an 11.5% acceptance rate—which means competition is stiff. You can’t just want to go here. You need to prove why you belong.

That’s where this guide comes in. No sugarcoating, no vague advice: just a straight-up, step-by-step breakdown of how to get into Tufts. We’ll cover grades, test scores, essays, extracurriculars, and every other piece of the puzzle that Tufts actually cares about.

If you’re ready to go all in and craft an application that demands attention, let’s get started.

• How Hard Is It to Get into Tufts?
• Tufts Admission Requirements
• Tufts GPA Requirements
• Tufts SAT Scores
• Tufts ACT Scores
• How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into Tufts
• Tufts Application Deadlines
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Hard Is It to Get into Tufts?

Getting into Tufts is super competitive. WIth an 11.5% acceptance rate, Tufts is among the more selective schools in the country. If you’re wondering how the Tufts acceptance rate has shifted over the years, check out the trend:

Notice the pattern? It’s getting more competitive every year. But don’t let that scare you. With the right approach and a standout application, you’ve got just as good a shot as anyone—maybe even better. If you’re wondering how to get into Tufts, the key is to focus on what makes you genuinely stand out.

Tufts Admission Requirements

Applying to Tufts is pretty straightforward, and they use the Common Application as well. Here’s what you’ll need to submit:

• High school transcript. Tufts wants to see that you’ve taken on challenging courses. They recommend completing four years each in English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Foreign Language, with advanced courses like AP, IB, or honors being a big plus.
• Letters of recommendation. Tufts requires the submission of one counselor/school official recommendation, along with one teacher recommendation. The teacher recommendation should come from a teacher who has taught you in one of the core subjects: English, Social Studies, Science, Math, or Foreign Language.
• Essays. The Common App essay (personal statement) and the Tufts Writing Supplement are your opportunity to show Tufts who you really are beyond your grades and scores. Use this space to get personal.
• Extracurricular activities. Tufts is looking for leaders, innovators, and those who make an impact. Go deep into a few activities that matter most to you rather than spreading yourself too thin.
• Standardized test scores (optional). Tufts is test-optional, so submitting SAT or ACT scores is completely up to you. If you do submit scores, make sure they are strong, as they can add some extra weight to your application.
• Mid-year and final reports. Tufts requires updates on your senior year performance, so stay focused and keep your grades up!

High school coursework requirements

Your high school transcript is an important part of your Tufts application. They want to see that you’ve taken a solid, well-rounded course load and challenged yourself academically. Here’s what Tufts requires:

• 4 units of English
• 3–4 units of Mathematics
• 3–4 units of Science (including lab work)
• 3–4 units of Foreign Language
• 3–4 units of Social Studies/History
• At least 16 academic units

If your school offers advanced classes like AP, IB, or honors, Tufts encourages you to take them. Pushing yourself in high school coursework shows that you’re prepared for Tufts’ academic demands, and it’s a smart move if you’re serious about how to get into Tufts.

In addition to your academics, Tufts also takes a close look at non-academic factors. Your extracurricular activities and talent/ability matter, especially if they’ve led to meaningful contributions. Personal qualities and first-generation status are highly valued as well. Tufts also considers your work experience, volunteer work, alumni relations, and whether you’ve shown consistent interest in the school.

And here’s the best part: geographical residence and religious affiliation are not considered at all. So you can totally relax about moving in with your aunt Carol or trying to impress them with your perfect attendance at Sunday service. Focus on what matters: your passion, your personality, and your drive.

Tufts GPA Requirements

So, what GPA do you need to get into Tufts? Fortunately, Tufts doesn’t officially set a minimum GPA, but let’s not kid ourselves. Your grades need to be top-shelf to compete.

Tufts average GPA

Tufts doesn’t officially publish GPA data, but they do provide class rank information. Based on Tuft University’s 2023-2024 Common Data Set, here’s how Tufts students rank:

• 82% of admitted students were in the top 10% of their high school graduating class.
• 95% were in the top 25%.
• 98% were in the top 50%.

Meaning? The vast majority of Tufts students were absolute academic weapons in high school. If your school doesn’t rank students, don’t stress. Tufts takes a holistic approach to admissions, so they’ll evaluate all aspects of your application.

While Tufts doesn’t have an official GPA cutoff, aiming for a GPA around 3.9 is a good target to stay competitive. It’s a solid benchmark for those hoping to stand out academically. So, if you’re in that range, you’re on the right track.

But remember, Tufts cares about who you are as a person, too. So if you’re not quite at that GPA mark, don’t fret just yet. There’s still plenty of room to shine with your essays, extracurriculars, and personal qualities—especially if you understand how to get into Tufts beyond just the numbers.

Tufts SAT Scores

Tufts doesn’t have a strict SAT requirement, but if you decide to submit scores, they need to be competitive. Since Tufts follows a test-optional policy, submitting scores is completely up to you. That said, strong scores can give your application an extra edge and show Tufts that you’re ready for the academic rigor of their programs.

Tufts average SAT scores

According to Tufts’ latest Common Data Set, here are the usual SAT scores of students submitting their scores:

Here’s a deeper look at the section scores:

86% of students scored between 700 and 800 in the EBRW section, and a solid 95% nailed that range in Math. If you’re looking at the 600-699 range, 14% of students landed in EBRW, and 4% did the same in Math. When it comes to scoring below 600, it’s a pretty rare sight. No one’s really slipping below 500 in either section.

For the SAT composite scores, Tufts is looking for high flyers. 97% of admitted students scored between 1400 and 1600.

What do these numbers mean? If you’re submitting your SAT scores, these are the ballparks you want to be in. If you want to stay pretty competitive, though, aim for the 75th-percentile figures: 760+ on EBRW, 790+ on Math, and 1530+ all in all.

If your score’s a bit lower, 3% of students scored between 1200 and 1399, and no one went below 1200. But don’t sweat it! Tufts takes a holistic approach to admissions, and if your numbers are a little off, they’ll look at everything else you bring to the table—essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play a role. That’s why it helps to know how to get into Tufts in a way that highlights your whole story.

Does Tufts require SAT?

Nope, Tufts doesn’t require the SAT or ACT—it’s test-optional! This means you’re in control of whether standardized test scores appear on your application. If your scores are strong, submitting them can give your application an extra boost. But if not, no worries. Tufts takes a holistic approach to admissions, focusing on your academic rigor, essays, extracurriculars, and recommendation letters instead.

Tufts ACT Scores

Tufts doesn’t have a strict ACT score cutoff, but if you’re submitting scores, they need to be competitive. The ACT is your chance to show Tufts that you can handle their challenging academics, and maybe even flex a little while you’re at it.

Tufts’ average ACT scores

According to Tufts’ latest Common Data Set, here’s the breakdown of the ACT scores of admitted students:

Tufts didn’t publish the score breakdowns for the individual sections, but when it comes to score distribution, 99% of admitted students scored between 30 and 36 on the ACT Composite. This means that Tufts admits students who really shine academically. Only 1% of admitted students scored between 24 and 29, and no students scored below 24.

To stay competitive, aim for a composite score of 35 or higher, with strong performances in English and Math. But don’t crash out if your scores aren’t quite there! Tufts takes a holistic approach, and how to get into Tufts often comes down to how well each part of your application fits together in the big picture.

Does Tufts prefer the ACT or SAT?

Neither! Tufts isn’t picky about which test you choose. Whether you’re more of an ACT pro or an SAT whiz, both are given equal weight in the admissions process.

Tufts also superscores! That means they’ll take your best section scores from multiple test dates and use those to calculate your highest possible composite score. So, if you’ve taken the ACT more than once, you’re in a great spot. A strong superscored result can give your application a nice little extra boost.

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into Tufts

Getting into Tufts isn’t easy; it’s competitive, prestigious, and attracts some of the brightest students. But don’t worry! You’re here to craft an application that stands out, and with the right strategy, you can make it happen. Here’s how to get into Tufts with intention, clarity, and confidence.

1. Keep your GPA in tip-top shape.

There’s no denying it: Tufts University values strong academics. The vast majority of admitted students come from the top of their class, with most of them coming from the top 10% of their high school graduating class. If you want to stay competitive, aim for a GPA of 3.9 or higher. Your transcript should showcase a rigorous course load with challenging classes like AP, IB, or honors courses.

That said, Tufts isn’t just about the numbers. They want to see resilience and growth. So if your grades took a dip at some point, don’t panic! Show how you turned things around. An upward trend can make a huge difference.

If a particular subject has been tough, don’t be afraid to seek help. Whether that’s through joining study groups or developing good study habits, Tufts appreciates students who are committed to improving. Plus, it shows that you’re ready to take on their academically rigorous environment.

2. Submit strong test scores (if you choose to).

Tufts has a test-optional policy, which means you’re in control of whether your SAT or ACT scores appear in your application. That said, if you have strong scores, they can certainly give your application an extra boost.

Admitted students tend to score around 1470–1530 on the SAT. For the ACT, admitted students typically score between 33–35. If you’re scoring in these ranges, you’re on the right track.

If you’re not quite there yet, don’t worry. Consider using practice tests, focus on your weak areas, and if needed, work with a private tutor to boost your scores. Don’t forget: Tufts superscores, which means they’ll take your best section scores from multiple test dates and combine them for the highest possible composite.

If standardized tests aren’t your strong suit, don’t stress. Tufts cares about more than just your scores. Pour your energy into your essays, extracurriculars, and overall application to stand out in other ways.

3. Write essays that wow.

Your essays are your opportunity to really stand out to Tufts. This is where they get to see who you are beyond your grades, test scores, and activities. It’s the perfect moment to show them your personality, creativity, and intellectual curiosity—qualities that matter a lot when figuring out how to get into Tufts.

Tufts essay prompts

Tufts has specific short answer questions that you’ll need to tackle depending on your program of interest. Here’s what Tufts’ supplemental essay prompts look like for 2024-2025:

Applicants to the School of Arts & Sciences or the School of Engineering:

• It’s cool to love learning. What excites your intellectual curiosity and why?

• How have the environments or experiences of your upbringing—your family, home, neighborhood, or community—shaped the person you are today?

• Using a specific example or two, tell us about a way that you contributed to building a collaborative and/or inclusive community.

Applicants to the School of the Museum of Fine Arts (SMFA) at Tufts:

• Art has the power to disrupt our preconceptions, shape public discourse, and imagine new ways of being in the world. What are the ideas you’d like to explore in your work?

Lastly, all applicants are asked to complete the following sentence in 100 words or less:

• “I am applying to Tufts because…”

This is a golden opportunity to show your motivations and why Tufts is the perfect fit for you. Make it personal, thoughtful, and specific—this is where you get to tell Tufts what excites you about being part of their community.

Remember, Tufts wants to get to know the real you. Be authentic, be specific, and be yourself. This is your chance to show off your passion, intellect, and what drives you. Let your essays do the talking and give Tufts a glimpse of the person who will be contributing to their dynamic campus life.

Want to know more about tackling each prompt? Check out our go-to guide on Tufts supplemental essays!

4. Crush it in your extracurriculars.

Tufts doesn’t just want students who are good in the classroom. They want students who lead, innovate, and make an impact outside of school, too. Extracurriculars matter, but what matters more is the depth of your involvement—that’s a key insight if you’re thinking about how to get into Tufts.

Instead of trying to pile up a list of every club or organization you’ve joined, Tufts is looking for quality over quantity. Go deep into a few activities and show how you’ve made a difference. Whether it’s through leadership roles, community service, or projects that reflect your passions, show that you’re committed to making a meaningful impact.

For example, maybe you started an environmental initiative in your community or organized a local social justice event. This type of initiative aligns with Tufts’ commitment to engagement and service. Whatever you choose, make sure your activities reflect the things you truly care about and where you’ve made a lasting mark.

5. Nail your recommendations.

Tufts requires two recommendation letters: one counselor/school official recommendation and one teacher recommendation. The teacher recommendation should come from a teacher who’s taught you in one of the core subjects: English, Social Studies, Science, Math, or Foreign Language.

To make sure your letters stand out, start impressing your teachers early. Be the student who engages in class discussions, asks insightful questions, and shows enthusiasm for the subject. When it comes time to ask for a recommendation, choose teachers who know you best: those who can speak to your growth, resilience, and work ethic.

Give your teachers plenty of time to write your recommendation (at least a month in advance) and provide them with a brag sheet highlighting your achievements, goals, and any specific moments you’d like them to mention. Once the letter’s in, thank them with a heartfelt note or a token of appreciation. Showing gratitude goes a long way!

6. Consider applying Early Decision (ED).

If it’s absolutely Tufts or nothing, going for Early Decision could really work in your favor. Although Tufts doesn’t publish ED stats, it’s generally known that applying early can possibly improve your chances of getting in. Early applicants usually see a better acceptance rate than those who apply later, so choosing the ED option could set you apart.

Take a look at some elite schools like Cornell and UPenn; they clearly show a difference in acceptance rates between ED and Regular Decision (RD). For instance, Cornell’s ED acceptance rate was 16.7%, while the RD rate dropped to 6.2%. Similarly, UPenn had an ED acceptance rate of 14.9%, compared to a 4.4% for RD. These figures really show how applying ED can really boost your odds compared to regular admissions.

But remember, Tufts’ ED process is binding. If you’re accepted, you’re committing to attend. No backing out! So, only apply ED if you’re sure Tufts is the right fit for you in every way.

While applying ED may boost your chances, it’s important to remember that admission is still highly competitive. Even with ED, there’s no guarantee of acceptance—hard work and a well-rounded application still matter.

If you’re confident Tufts is your top choice, applying ED could be a strategic move. Show Tufts why you’re the perfect fit for their campus, and get ready for the next step in your academic path—that kind of commitment can make a real difference when you’re thinking about how to get into Tufts.

Tufts Application Deadlines

Staying on top of deadlines is a must. Missing one could mean missing out on the opportunity to join this vibrant community, so make sure these important dates are on your radar:

Be sure not to miss out on the deadlines! Early Decision I applicants will hear back by mid-December, while Early Decision II applicants will get their decisions by early February. Regular Decision applicants will receive their decision by April 1st.

Remember, ED is binding, meaning you’re committed to attending Tufts if accepted, so make sure it’s your number one choice. If you’re applying RD, you’ll have until May 1st to confirm your spot. Just make sure you don’t miss that deadline either!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get into Tufts with low test scores?

If your SAT or ACT scores aren’t quite where Tufts’ typical range falls (SAT 1470–1530 or ACT 33–35), don’t stress. Tufts is test-optional, so you can choose not to submit scores if they don’t reflect your abilities. Instead, focus on showcasing your strengths in other areas like essays, extracurricular activities, and recommendation letters. A well-rounded application will still stand out, especially if you understand how to get into Tufts by balancing academic strength with genuine personal insight.

2. What are Tufts’ GPA requirements for admission?

Tufts doesn’t have an official minimum GPA requirement, but most admitted students have stellar academic records. Your target GPA should be around 3.9 to stay competitive. Taking challenging courses like AP, IB, or honors can help boost your chances. If your GPA isn’t as high, you can still stand out with strong extracurriculars, a great essay, and glowing recommendations.

3. Is Tufts test-optional?

Yes, Tufts is test-optional. This means you don’t have to submit SAT or ACT scores if you feel they don’t represent your abilities. However, if you have strong scores, they can still enhance your application. Tufts reviews the entire application—including your GPA, essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations—so don’t worry if you choose not to submit scores.

4. What does Tufts look for in applicants?

Tufts seeks well-rounded, driven students who excel academically and demonstrate a passion for extracurricular activities. The university values academic rigor, so taking challenging courses such as AP, IB, or honors is key. Tufts also looks for leadership roles, volunteer work, personal qualities, and unique experiences that show you’ll contribute to their vibrant community. In short, it’s about showcasing who you are beyond just your test scores.

5. How much does it cost to attend Tufts?

For the 2024–2025 academic year, Tufts University’ tuition is $69,146 per year. In addition to tuition, you’ll need to account for room and board, books, and other fees. The total cost of attendance is around $92,16 for most students, but financial aid may reduce that amount based on need. Tufts proudly meets 100% of the demonstrated financial need.

Takeaways

So, you’re curious about how to get into Tufts? Here’s a breakdown of what you should focus on:

• Tufts is highly competitive—11.5% acceptance rate!—so it’s about more than just stellar grades and test scores. Your application should reflect who you are beyond the numbers. You need to show you’re a strong fit for their community.
• Aim for a GPA around 3.9 or higher, and take on challenging coursework like AP, IB, or honors. Tufts is looking for students who take academic rigor seriously and excel in it.
• Test scores are optional, but if you decide to submit them, aim for a SAT score of 1470+ or an ACT score of 33+ to add strength to your application.
• Your essays and extracurriculars are where your personality comes through. Talk about your passions, how you’ve made a difference, and why Tufts is the place for you. Let them see your commitment and enthusiasm.
• Stressed out about how to get into Tufts? Take it easy! A college admissions consultant can help you craft a standout application, showcase your unique strengths, and improve your chances of becoming a Jumbo.