How to Get into WashU: Admission Requirements and Tips

Thinking about applying to Washington University in St. Louis (WashU)? Great choice! WashU is a dream school for many. It offers small class sizes, world-class professors, and a lot of ways to get hands-on experience, whether through research, internships, or global study programs.

But getting in is not easy. With an acceptance rate of 12.1% for the Class of 2028, WashU is highly selective. The admissions team looks for students who are curious, engaged, and ready to make an impact in their communities. If you are aiming for a spot, you will need more than just strong numbers.

The good news is that we are here to help. This guide will break down everything you need to know, including GPA expectations, test scores, extracurricular tips, and application strategies, so you can put your best foot forward. Let’s get into it!

How Hard Is It to Get into WashU?

For the Class of 2028, WashU received 32,754 applications and admitted just 3,951 students, which puts the acceptance rate at 12.1%. With these figures, WashU remains a highly competitive institution that attracts top-tier applicants from across the world.

Curious about how WashU’s acceptance rates have changed in recent years? Here’s a quick look:

As you can see, WashU’s acceptance rate has stayed between 11 and 16 percent in recent years. The biggest drop happened between the Class of 2024 and Class of 2026, when the rate fell from 16 percent to 11.3 percent. More students are applying each year, and WashU’s reputation as a top school keeps growing, making it even tougher to get in.

With almost 33,000 applicants competing for fewer than 4,000 spots, standing out in the application pool is a challenge. If you are aiming for a spot, focus on crafting an application that truly reflects who you are and what you bring to the table.

WashU Admission Requirements

WashU looks for students who are curious, driven, and well-equipped to take on academic challenges. The admissions team evaluates applications holistically, meaning they consider more than just numbers.

Here is what you need to know about the application requirements:

• High school transcript. WashU wants to see that you have challenged yourself with rigorous coursework. Most successful applicants take honors, AP, IB, or advanced classes in high school.
• Recommendation letters. You will need one letter from your school counselor and another one from a teacher who knows you well. Choose someone who can speak to your academic ability, work ethic, and character.
• Personal statement. WashU accepts either the Common Application or the Coalition Application, both of which require a personal statement. This is your chance to showcase your personality, experiences, and what makes you a great fit for WashU.
• Supplemental essay. Aside from the personal statement, you also have WashU-specific questions. You only need to submit one required supplemental essay, but you also have the option to submit another one.
• Standardized test scores (optional). WashU is test-optional, so submitting SAT or ACT scores is up to you. If your scores strengthen your application, you can include them, but if not, WashU will evaluate your application without them.
• Mid-year and final transcripts. Your senior year matters. WashU requires a mid-year report with your first-semester grades and a final transcript after graduation to make sure you maintained strong academic performance.
• Extracurricular activities. WashU looks for students who are involved in their communities, whether through school clubs, sports, research, internships, or other meaningful activities.
• Portfolio (for specific majors). If you are applying to the College of Art, a portfolio is required. For the College of Architecture, a portfolio is strongly encouraged but not mandatory.

The most important factors in the admissions process include the rigor of your high school coursework, your GPA, recommendation letters, and your application essays. These elements carry the most weight in showing your academic abilities and potential as a student at WashU.

Beyond academics, WashU also values extracurricular activities, talents, character, and personal qualities. They want students who are not only strong in the classroom but also engaged in their communities and passionate about their interests.

Work experience, first-generation status, and volunteer work are also important factors in the admissions process. While these factors may not weigh as heavily as academic factors, they can definitely help strengthen your application and showcase what makes you unique.

On the other hand, some factors play a smaller role in WashU’s admissions process. Alumni relations and geographical residence are considered but are not major influences in admissions decisions. State residency and religious affiliation are not considered at all, meaning they will have no impact on your chances of getting in.

Ultimately, WashU is looking for students who are academically driven, intellectually curious, and eager to contribute to the university community. A strong application will highlight both your academic achievements and the personal qualities that set you apart.

High school coursework recommendations

Your high school transcript is one of the first things WashU looks at during the admissions process. To stay competitive, you should take a challenging and well-rounded set of courses. While WashU does not have strict course requirements, most successful applicants follow this recommended coursework:

• 4 units of English
• 3-4 units of Mathematics 
• 3-4 units of Science(including 2-4 units of lab)
• 2-4 units of Foreign Language
• 2-4 units of Social Studies
• 2-4 units of History

This adds up to at least 20 core academic units, though taking more advanced coursework can strengthen your application. To stand out, students are encouraged to challenge themselves with AP, IB, honors, or dual-enrollment courses if available at their school.

WashU GPA Requirements

WashU does not publicly list a strict GPA cutoff for admission, but given its competitive applicant pool, you will need a strong academic record to be a serious contender. Aiming for a high GPA will put you in a competitive position.

WashU average GPA

According to WashU’s Common Data Set for 2023-2024, the average GPA of admitted students is 4.24. Here is a breakdown of GPA distribution among enrolled students:

• 68% had a 4.0 GPA
• 24% had a GPA between 3.75 and 3.99
• 6% had a GPA between 3.50 and 3.74
• Only 2% had a GPA below 3.5

For students who reported class rank, WashU admits were among the top of their high school classes:

• 89% ranked in the top 10%
• 99% ranked in the top 25%
• 100% ranked in the top 50%

This data confirms that WashU looks for students with exceptional academic performance. However, GPA is only one part of the admissions process. WashU takes a holistic approach, meaning that factors such as extracurricular activities, leadership experience, recommendation letters, and essays also play a role in the final decision.

If your GPA is not as high as you would like, do not stress. Taking the most rigorous courses available, excelling in other areas, and submitting a compelling application can still improve your chances of getting in.

WashU SAT Scores

WashU is test-optional, so you don’t have to submit SAT scores if you do not want to. However, if you choose to send them, your scores should be strong to stay competitive. High SAT scores can help demonstrate academic readiness and may strengthen your application.

WashU average SAT

According to WashU’s latest Common Data Set, here are the typical SAT scores for admitted students:

Here’s a breakdown of section scores:

Most admitted students score very high on the SAT. In fact, 99% of students had composite scores between 1400 and 1600, with only 1% scoring between 1200 and 1399.

Looking at section scores:

• 96% of students scored between 700 and 800 in SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing.
• 98% of students scored between 700 and 800 in SAT Math.

To stay competitive, aim for a 1570 or higher, with strong scores in both Math and EBRW. A score in this range shows that you are well-prepared for WashU’s rigorous academics.

That said, do not panic if your scores are not perfect. WashU evaluates applications holistically, so your coursework, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations all matter. If your SAT scores are close but not quite there, consider retaking the test to boost your chances.

Does WashU require the SAT?

Nope! WashU is test-optional, so you get to decide whether or not to submit SAT scores. If you have a strong score, sending it in can give your application a nice boost. But if your scores are not where you want them to be, leaving them out will not hurt your chances at all.

WashU takes a holistic approach to admissions, meaning they care about more than just test scores. Your coursework, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations all play a big role in the process. Instead of just looking at numbers, WashU wants to know who you are as a person and how you will contribute to their campus.

WashU ACT Scores

WashU does not require the ACT, but if you choose to submit your scores, they should be strong to stay competitive. A high ACT score can help showcase your academic abilities, but keep in mind that WashU is test-optional, so it is entirely up to you whether to include them in your application.

WashU average ACT

Here is a look at the ACT scores for admitted students, based on WashU’s latest Common Data Set:

As for the subject breakdown:

Most admitted students scored 30 or higher on the ACT. In fact, 98% of students had a composite score between 30 and 36, with only 2% scoring between 24 and 29.

Looking at section scores:

• 98% of students scored between 30 and 36 in ACT English.
• 89% of students scored between 30 and 36 in ACT Math.
• 96% of students scored between 30 and 36 in ACT Reading.
• 93% of students scored between 30 and 36 in ACT Science.

If you want to be in the most competitive range, aim for a 35 or higher. However, if your score is not quite there, do not stress too much. WashU looks at applications holistically, so your coursework, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations all matter. If standardized testing is not your strongest area, you can still stand out in other ways.

Does WashU prefer the ACT or SAT?

WashU doesn’t favor one test over the other. Whether you take the SAT or ACT, both are treated equally, so it is totally up to you which one to submit—or whether to submit scores at all, since WashU is test-optional.

Among first-year applicants, 29% submitted SAT scores, while 28% submitted ACT scores. That means most students either didn’t submit test scores or focused on other parts of their application, which shows that WashU values more than just numbers.

The good news? WashU superscores both tests, meaning they will take your highest section scores from multiple test dates to give you the best possible composite score. If you have taken the SAT or ACT more than once, this can work in your favor. If you choose to submit scores, make sure to send your best ones.

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into WashU

Getting into WashU is competitive, but don’t stress! A strong application can help you stand out. Let’s break down what really matters:

1. Keep your GPA strong.

Your GPA is a huge factor in WashU’s admissions process. To be a competitive applicant, aim for a 4.24 or higher, with the strongest students landing around the 4.24 average GPA. Taking rigorous courses like AP, IB, or honors classes will help show admissions officers that you’re ready for WashU’s challenging academics.

If your grades have had some rough patches, don’t worry. WashU appreciates students who show improvement and resilience. If you’ve worked hard to bring up your grades in certain subjects, that’s worth mentioning in your application.

If you’re struggling with a class, take action: get a tutor, form a study group, or ask your teacher for extra help. Showing that you take initiative in your education can make a difference.

2. Submit SAT/ACT scores if they work in your favor.

Since WashU is test-optional, sending in SAT or ACT scores is totally up to you. If your scores are strong, submitting them can add an extra boost to your application.

For reference, the middle 50% of admitted students had SAT scores between 1500 and 1570 and ACT scores between 33 and 35.

To be as competitive as possible, aim for a score in the 75th percentile or higher—that’s 1570+ on the SAT or 35 on the ACT. If your scores are below the 50th percentile, it might be better to focus on other strengths in your application.

If you’re not happy with your scores, you can always retake the test, use practice exams, or get private tutoring to boost your performance.

WashU also superscores both the SAT and ACT, meaning they take your highest section scores across multiple test dates to create your best composite score.

That being said, if testing isn’t your thing, don’t stress. WashU takes a holistic approach to admissions, so your grades, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations all carry significant weight. Play to your strengths and focus on what makes you stand out.

3. Let your essay bring your story to life.

You’ll need to submit a personal statement, choosing a prompt from The Common Application or The Coalition Application. In addition to your personal statement, WashU requires you to answer one school-specific question.

Here’s the required WashU supplemental essay prompt:

• Please tell us what you are interested in studying at college and why. Undecided about your academic interest(s)? Don’t worry—tell us what excites you about the academic division you selected. Remember that all of our first-year students enter officially “undeclared” and work closely with their team of academic advisors to discover their academic passions. You can explore all of our majors and programs on our website. (200 words) 

Additionally, you have the option to submit a second supplemental essay. If you choose to do so, you can respond to one of these prompts:

• WashU supports engagement in the St. Louis community by considering the university as “In St. Louis, For St. Louis.” What is a community you are a part of and your place or impact within it? (250 words) 

• WashU strives to know every undergraduate student “By Name & Story.” How have your life experiences shaped your story? (250 words)

How to write a strong essay:

• Start with a compelling hook. Admissions officers read thousands of essays, so grab their attention right away. Open with a thought-provoking question, an engaging anecdote, or a vivid description to draw them in.
• Show, don’t just tell. Instead of saying you’re determined or creative, prove it with a real-life example. For instance, instead of saying, “I am a problem-solver,” describe a time you overcame an obstacle, created something innovative, or tackled a difficult challenge.
• Connect your story to WashU. WashU looks for students who will contribute to their community. Highlight your passions, learning style, or experiences in a way that shows why WashU is the right place for you.
• Keep it focused. With only a 200-word limit, don’t try to cover too much. Choose one meaningful moment, challenge, or experience and go deep. What did you learn? How did it shape you?
• Make it personal. Your essay should sound like you, not a formal research paper. Write in your natural voice. Admissions officers want to get to know you, not read a resume in paragraph form.
• Revise, edit, and get feedback. Don’t submit your first draft. Take time to revise, ask a teacher or mentor for feedback, and read your essay out loud to catch any awkward phrasing or grammar mistakes.

Think of your essay as your chance to connect with the admissions team and show them what excites you. Take your time to craft a compelling and authentic response that leaves an impression.

WashU gives applicants the choice to submit an additional essay, but you won’t be penalized if you don’t. The extra prompt is designed to help you expand on your background, values, or personal experiences.

If you feel your personal statement and the required supplemental essay already say it all, skipping the optional second supplement is totally fine. But if you have more to share, this is a great way to add another layer to your application.

Need more help with your personal statement? Check out our go-to guide on WashU’s essays!

4. Make your extracurriculars count.

WashU looks for students who do more than just join clubs. They want to see how you made an impact. Whether you took on leadership roles, contributed to research, volunteered in your community, or pursued creative passions, admissions officers want to know what you did and why it mattered. Here are some ways to make your extracurriculars stand out:

• Leadership and student government roles. If you were a club president, student council leader, or started a new initiative, highlight the actions you took and the difference you made. Maybe you helped organize a fundraising event or worked on a policy that improved student life. Programs like the National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC) are also great ways to showcase leadership experience.
• Community service and advocacy. WashU values students who are committed to helping others. If you volunteered at a local shelter, organized food drives, or worked on a social justice initiative, share what you did and how it impacted your community. Programs like Habitat for Humanity and DoSomething.org show dedication to service and making a difference.
• STEM and research activities. If you have a passion for science, engineering, or technology, highlight the projects and competitions you participated in. Whether you worked on a research study, developed an app, or competed in a science fair, explain how these experiences shaped your interest. Programs like the WashU Young Scientist Program and the Regeneron Science Talent Search can help demonstrate your commitment to STEM.
• Performing and visual arts. Whether you are a musician, actor, dancer, or artist, WashU wants to see how you have honed your creative skills. Did you perform in a school play, submit artwork to a competition, or compose original music? Programs like Interlochen Arts Camp and the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards can help highlight your artistic achievements.
• Entrepreneurship and innovation. If you started a business, launched a nonprofit, or created a product, share the process and what you learned along the way. Maybe you developed a tutoring program, started an online store, or ran a marketing campaign for a cause you care about. Programs like LaunchX and the Diamond Challenge for High School Entrepreneurs can help showcase your entrepreneurial mindset.
• Athletics and sports teams. If you played a sport, whether at the varsity, club, or recreational level, talk about the skills and experiences you gained. Did you show leadership as a team captain? Overcome an injury or challenge to improve your performance? WashU values student-athletes, and participation in programs like AAU basketball, US Youth Soccer ODP, or Nike EYBL can add to your application.
• Cultural programs and diversity initiatives. Whether you helped organize a cultural event, participated in discussions on inclusion, or worked on community outreach, these efforts matter. Cultural heritage clubs and community leadership programs can help demonstrate your commitment to promoting inclusivity.

WashU is not just looking for students who join a lot of activities. They want to see how you made a difference. Whether you led a project, took on challenges, or helped your community, focus on your impact rather than just listing your extracurriculars.

5. Secure strong recommendation letters.

WashU requires one recommendation from your school counselor and one from a teacher as part of your application. These letters help show who you are beyond your grades and test scores by highlighting your work ethic, leadership, character, and contributions to your school community.

Tips for strong recommendation letters:

• Pick a teacher who really knows you. Choose a teacher from a class where you have excelled or grown. If they have seen you take on challenges or lead projects, they will be able to write a strong, personal letter.
• Connect with your counselor. Even if your school is large, make an effort to introduce yourself early. Talk about your goals, challenges you have overcome, and what excites you about learning. This will help your counselor provide a more personal and detailed recommendation.
• Ask early. Your teachers and counselor likely have many requests, so try to ask at least a month before your deadline. Giving them enough time means they can write a thoughtful letter.
• Share details. Provide them with a list of your accomplishments, leadership roles, or projects you have been a part of. The more specific information they have, the more tailored and compelling their letter will be.
• Show your gratitude. A thank-you note or a small token of appreciation can make a big difference and help strengthen your relationship with your recommenders.

Remember that WashU also allows one additional letter from someone outside of school, such as a mentor, research advisor, coach, or employer. However, since extra letters may not always be reviewed, make sure that any additional recommendation adds something new to your application.

6. Consider applying Early Decision (ED).

If WashU is your top choice, applying Early Decision might give you an edge. In the Fall 2023 admissions cycle, WashU got 4,517 ED applications and admitted 1,158 students. That puts the ED acceptance rate at around 25.6%, which is much higher than the university’s overall acceptance rate of 12%. If you’re set on WashU, ED could be a great way to boost your chances.

Applying ED shows admissions officers that WashU is where you really want to be. Schools appreciate that kind of commitment, and it can sometimes help your application stand out. But keep in mind that ED is binding, meaning if you get in, you have to enroll and withdraw any other college applications.

Before hitting submit, make sure WashU is the right fit for you in every way—academically, socially, and financially. Talk things through with your family, check out financial aid options, and be sure you’re ready to commit.

ED can be a solid strategy, but only if you’re 100% sure WashU is where you want to spend the next four years.

WashU Application Deadlines

Staying on top of deadlines can make the college application process so much easier. Whether you’re applying Early Decision I, Early Decision II, or Regular Decision, knowing these key dates will help you avoid last-minute stress and put together your best application.

The best way to stay on track? Mark these dates, set reminders, plan ahead, and give yourself plenty of time to craft a solid application. A little organization now can save a lot of stress later!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get into WashU with low test scores?

Yes! WashU is test-optional, meaning you are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores. If standardized testing is not your strong suit, don’t worry. Your application will still be considered holistically. Instead, focus on strengthening other areas like your GPA, extracurriculars, and essays.

That said, if you choose to submit scores, aim for at least a 1570+ on the SAT or a 35+ on the ACT to stay competitive. If your scores are lower than you would like, consider retaking the test to boost your chances.

2. What GPA do I need to get into WashU?

WashU does not have an official minimum GPA requirement, but for a competitive application, you should aim for a 4.24 or higher. Most admitted students are at the top of their class and have taken challenging coursework like AP, IB, or honors classes.

If your GPA is a bit lower, do not panic! WashU evaluates applications holistically. Strong extracurricular involvement, leadership experience, and compelling recommendation letters can help balance out your application.

3. Does applying Early Decision improve my chances of getting in?

Yes! Applying ED can give you an edge in the admissions process. For the Fall 2023 cycle, WashU received 4,517 ED applications and admitted 1,158 students, resulting in an ED acceptance rate of 25.6%. This is much higher than the overall acceptance rate of 12%, making ED a strong option if WashU is your top choice.

However, Early Decision is binding, meaning if you are accepted, you must enroll and withdraw applications from other schools. Make sure WashU is the right fit for you before committing.

4. Is WashU test-optional?

Yes! WashU has a test-optional policy, meaning you can choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you believe your scores will strengthen your application, go ahead and include them. But if standardized tests are not your strength, leaving them out will not put you at a disadvantage. WashU reviews applications holistically, looking at your coursework, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendation letters.

5. How much does it cost to attend WashU?

For the 2024-2025 academic year, WashU’s tuition is $64,500 per year. When you add in housing, meals, books, and personal expenses, the total cost of attendance can reach around $92,523.

WashU offers need-based financial aid and merit scholarships to help make education more accessible. Be sure to explore available financial aid options if cost is a concern.

Takeaways

Want to put your best foot forward for WashU? Here’s a quick rundown of what really matters:

• With an acceptance rate of 12.1%, WashU is highly competitive. To stand out, your application should highlight intellectual curiosity, leadership, and meaningful engagement in your school and community.
• Aiming for a 4.24+ GPA while taking challenging courses like AP, IB, or honors classes is a great way to show you can handle WashU’s academic rigor.
• Test scores are optional, but if you submit them, aim high. A competitive SAT score is 1530+, and a strong ACT score is 35+.
• Your essays and extracurriculars should tell your story. What impact have you made? How have you grown? WashU values students who are critical thinkers, deeply engaged in their communities, and bring unique perspectives to campus.
• Need help? College applications can be overwhelming, but getting expert guidance from a college admissions consultant can make the process easier. A well-planned approach and a compelling application can help you make the best impression on WashU’s admissions team.