How to Get into Williams College: Admission Requirements and Tips

Thinking about applying to Williams College? Excellent choice! As the #1 liberal arts college in the nation, Williams is known for its tight-knit community, top-tier academics, and one-of-a-kind tutorial system that gives students an Oxford-style learning experience.

But getting in is not easy. For the Class of 2028, Williams had an acceptance rate of just 7.5%, making it one of the most selective liberal arts colleges in the U.S.

The good news is that we’ve got you covered! This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from GPA expectations and test scores to extracurriculars and application tips, so you can give yourself the best shot at getting in. Let’s get right into it!

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

How Hard Is It to Get into Williams College?

For the Class of 2028, 15,411 students applied, and only 1,159 were admitted, bringing the acceptance rate down to 7.5%. This means that fewer than eight out of every 100 applicants were admitted. With numbers like these, it is clear that getting into Williams College requires a standout application.

If you are wondering how Williams College’s acceptance rates have changed over the years, here is a look at recent trends:

As you can see, Williams College’s acceptance rate has dropped significantly over the past few years. The biggest shift happened between the Class of 2024 and Class of 2025, when the rate dropped from 15.1% to 8.8%. Since then, it has remained below 10%, making Williams College more competitive than ever.

Each year, thousands of high-achieving students apply, but only a small percentage make it through. With more than 15,000 students competing for just over 1,100 spots, standing out in the application pool is no easy task.

To give yourself the best chance, you need more than just strong grades and test scores. Williams College looks for students who are intellectually curious, engaged in their communities, and eager to challenge themselves academically. Focus on crafting an application that highlights what makes you unique and how you will contribute to the Williams College community.

Williams College Admission Requirements

Williams College takes a holistic approach to admissions, meaning the admissions team looks beyond just numbers. Here is what you need to know about the application requirements:

• High school transcript. Williams College looks for students who have challenged themselves with rigorous coursework. Most admitted students have taken honors, AP, IB, or advanced classes throughout high school.
• Recommendation letters. You will need one letter from your school counselor and two from teachers who know you well. It is best to choose teachers who can speak to your academic strengths, work ethic, and intellectual curiosity.
• Writing submission (optional). Williams College no longer requires or offers a traditional supplemental essay. Instead, you have the option to submit an academic paper you have already written and feel proud of. This should be a piece that showcases your writing skills, critical thinking, and intellectual depth.
• Standardized test scores (optional). Williams College is test-optional, so you can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you think your scores strengthen your application, you can include them, but they are not required.
• Mid-year and final transcripts. Your senior year matters. Williams College requires a mid-year report with your first-semester grades and a final transcript after graduation to confirm that you maintained strong academic performance.
• Extracurricular activities. Williams College 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 visual or performing arts, you are welcome to submit a portfolio showcasing your work. While it is not required for most applicants, it can help highlight your talent and dedication.

Williams College cares a lot about academics. They put the most weight on the difficulty of your coursework, your GPA, class rank, and recommendation letters. They want to see that you have taken on challenges and done well.

Williams College also values extracurricular activities, talents, character, and personal qualities. They want students who are engaged, curious, and genuinely passionate about what they do. Whether you are a leader, an artist, an athlete, or deeply involved in your community, these experiences can help you stand out.

Other factors like work experience, first-generation status, and volunteer work are also considered. While they are not as crucial as academics, they can add depth to your application and highlight what makes you unique. Williams College appreciates students from all backgrounds who bring different perspectives to campus.

Some things matter less. Alumni relations, religious affiliation, and geographical residence are considered, but they are not major factors. Meanwhile, state residency and demonstrated interest are not considered at all. Visiting campus or reaching out to admissions will not impact your chances.

At the end of the day, Williams College is looking for students who are academically strong, curious, and excited to be part of a vibrant community. If you can show your strengths both in and outside the classroom, you will have a solid shot at getting in.

High school coursework recommendations

One of the first things Williams College looks at in the admissions process is your high school transcript. To stay competitive, you should take a challenging and well-rounded set of courses.

While Williams College does not have strict course requirements, they provide recommendations to help applicants prepare for the academic rigor of college. Most successful applicants follow this coursework guideline:

• 4 units of English
• 4 units of Mathematics
• 4 units of Science(including at least 3 units of lab science)
• 4 units of Foreign Language
• 4 units of Social Studies
• 4 units of History

This adds up to at least 24 core academic units, though taking more advanced coursework can make your application stronger. Students are encouraged to challenge themselves with AP, IB, honors classes, or dual-enrollment courses if available at their school.

Williams College values students who push themselves academically. A rigorous high school curriculum shows that you are ready for the challenges of a top-ranked liberal arts education.

Williams College GPA Requirements

Williams College does not have a strict GPA cutoff, but with such a competitive applicant pool, you will need a strong academic record to be a serious contender. To stay on track, aiming for a GPA of at least 4.13 will put you in a good position.

Williams College average GPA

Williams College does not officially share GPA data for admitted students, but successful applicants tend to have high GPAs in challenging coursework. Taking AP, IB, honors, or dual-enrollment courses can help show admissions that you are ready for the academic rigor at Williams College.

For students who reported class rank, most admitted students were top performers in their high school classes:

• 91.6% ranked in the top 10%
• 98.9% ranked in the top 25%
• 100% ranked in the top 50%

This shows that Williams College looks for high-achieving students, but GPA is not everything. The admissions team takes a holistic approach, so they also consider extracurriculars, leadership, and recommendation letters when making decisions.

If your GPA is not quite where you want it to be, do not stress. Challenging yourself with tough courses, excelling in other areas, and putting together a strong application can still make you a competitive applicant.

Williams College SAT Requirements

Williams College is test-optional, so you do not 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.

Williams College average SAT

According to Williams College’s Common Data Set for 2023-2024, 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, 98% of students had composite scores between 1400 and 1600, with only 2% scoring between 1200 and 1399.

Looking at section scores:

• 94% of students scored between 700 and 800 in SAT EBRW.
• 93% of students scored between 700 and 800 in SAT Math.

To stay competitive, aim for a 1550 or higher, with strong scores in both Math and EBRW. A score in this range shows that you are well-prepared for Williams College’s rigorous academics.

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

Does Williams College require the SAT?

Not at all! Williams College is test-optional, which means you get to decide whether or not to include your SAT scores in your application. If your scores are strong, sending them can give your application an extra edge. But if they are not as high as you would like, skipping them will not hurt your chances.

Williams ACT Scores

Williams College does not require ACT scores, so it is completely up to you whether you submit them. If you have a solid score, sending it in can help strengthen your application, but if your scores are not as high as you hoped, leaving them out will not hurt you.

Williams College average ACT

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

As for the subject breakdown:

Most admitted students score 30 or higher on the ACT. In fact, 99% of students scored between 30 and 36, while only 1% landed 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.

To be in a strong position, shoot for a 35 or higher. However, if your score is not quite there, do not stress too much. Williams College takes a holistic approach to admissions, meaning your grades, extracurricular activities, recommendations, and overall academic profile all play a role. If standardized testing is not your strongest area, you can still stand out in other ways.

Does Williams College prefer the SAT or ACT?

Williams College does not give preference to either the SAT or ACT. Both tests are viewed equally, so it is entirely up to you whether you want to submit one, the other, or neither—since Williams College is test-optional.

Looking at recent admissions data, 42% of applicants submitted SAT scores, while 18% submitted ACT scores. This means that most students chose not to submit any test scores or focused on other parts of their application, which shows that Williams College values more than just standardized testing.

The best part? Williams College superscores both the SAT and ACT, meaning they will take your highest section scores from multiple test dates to calculate the best possible composite score. If you have taken the SAT or ACT more than once, this could work to your advantage. If you decide to submit scores, just make sure you send in your best ones.

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into Williams College

Williams College is highly competitive, but do not panic. There are plenty of ways to make your application stand out. Let’s go over what really matters:

1. Keep your GPA in great shape.

Your GPA plays a big role in Williams College’s admissions process. To stay competitive, you should aim for at least a 4.13 GPA, with the strongest applicants often reaching or exceeding that mark. Taking challenging classes like AP, IB, or honors courses can show the admissions team that you are ready for Williams College’s rigorous academics.

If your grades have not always been perfect, do not worry. Williams College values growth and perseverance, so if you have worked hard to bring up your grades in a tough subject, that is worth mentioning in your application.

Struggling in a class? Take action! Join a study group, ask your teacher for extra help, or find a tutor. Showing that you take initiative in your education can go a long way.

2. Submit SAT/ACT scores if they help you.

Williams College is test-optional, so whether or not you submit SAT or ACT scores is entirely up to you. If you have a strong score, it can give your application a leg up, but if your scores are not where you want them to be, skipping them will not put you at a disadvantage.

For reference, the middle 50% of admitted students had SAT scores between 1480 and 1550 and ACT scores between 33 and 35.

To be in the most competitive range, aim for the 75th percentile or higher, which means at least 1550 on the SAT or 35 on the ACT. If your scores fall below the 50th percentile, you might be better off focusing on other strengths in your application.

Not happy with your test scores? You can retake the test, use practice exams, or consider working with a private tutor to improve.

Williams College also superscores both the SAT and ACT, meaning they will consider your highest section scores across multiple test dates to calculate your best composite score.

That said, if standardized testing is not your strong suit, don’t stress yourself out. Williams College takes a holistic approach to admissions, so your grades, extracurriculars, recommendations, and overall academic profile all matter. Play to your strengths and highlight what makes you stand out.

3. Let your paper showcase your strengths.

Williams College no longer requires a supplemental essay on the Common Application. Instead, they give you the option to submit a 3–5 page academic paper that you have already written and feel confident about.

This paper does not need to be graded, and it can be either analytical or creative. However, lab reports are not allowed. If you choose to submit, you must also include a brief description of the original assignment or prompt.

How to pick the right paper:

• Choose a paper that highlights your academic abilities. Since Williams College is giving you the freedom to submit a past academic paper, you want to select one that demonstrates strong writing, critical thinking, and analysis. If you are applying for a writing-intensive major, an analytical essay can be a great choice. If your field is more STEM-focused, a well-crafted creative or argumentative piece could show another side of your skills.
• Stick to the page limit. Williams College asks for a 3–5 page submission, so make sure the paper you choose fits within that range. Avoid shrinking margins or using tiny fonts to squeeze in extra content. Submitting something that meets the exact length requirement shows that you can follow instructions.
• Align the topic with your application. The paper you submit should make sense in the context of your application. If you are applying as a history major, choosing an analytical history paper can reinforce your interest. If you are focused on STEM and do not have many writing-heavy assignments, submitting a paper from an English or social studies course can still demonstrate your writing ability.
• Make sure it’s well-written and organized. Even though the paper does not need to be graded, it should still be polished and structured well. Read through it again to check for clarity, strong arguments, and a logical flow. If necessary, make minor edits to make sure it presents your ideas effectively.
• Get feedback before submitting. If you’re unsure which paper to submit, ask a teacher, mentor, or counselor for input. They can help you decide which one best represents your strengths and contributes to your overall application.

Since this is an optional submission, you are not required to submit a paper. However, for a small and highly selective school like Williams College, optional materials can be an opportunity to stand out. If you have a paper that truly showcases your strengths, it is worth considering.

Need more help with your paper? Check out our go-to guide on Williams College’s writing submission!

4. Make your extracurriculars stand out.

Williams College is not just looking for students who participate in a long list of clubs. They want to see how you made a real impact. Did you take on leadership roles, create something meaningful, or contribute to your community in a way that made a difference? If so, that is what you should focus on in your application. Here is how you can make your extracurriculars shine:

• Leadership roles in school organizations. If you held a leadership position like club president, student council representative, or started your own initiative, highlight the steps you took and the changes you made. Maybe you organized a fundraising event, advocated for a policy change, or helped launch a new program. Programs like the National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC) can strengthen your leadership profile.
• Community service and activism. Williams College values students who engage with their communities. If you have volunteered at a shelter, participated in food drives, or worked on social justice initiatives, talk about how your efforts made an impact. Consider programs like Habitat for Humanity or the United Nations Youth Volunteer Program to expand your service experience.
• STEM research and innovation. If you love science, engineering, or technology, your extracurriculars should reflect that. Whether you conducted research, competed in science fairs, or developed a tech project, admissions officers want to see how you applied your interests outside the classroom. Programs like the Regeneron Science Talent Search or the MIT PRIMES Program can add significant weight to your application.

• Performing and visual arts. If you are passionate about music, dance, theater, or visual arts, Williams College wants to see how you have refined your talents. Did you win a competition, perform in a major production, or showcase your artwork? Programs like Interlochen Arts Camp, Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, or Juilliard Summer Programs can be great ways to demonstrate your artistic achievements.
• Entrepreneurship and creative initiatives. If you have launched a business, nonprofit, or any creative project, be sure to highlight the process, challenges, and outcomes. Maybe you started a tutoring company, built an online brand, or ran a campaign for a cause. Programs like LaunchX or UPenn’s Leadership in the Business World (LBW) program are excellent platforms to showcase your entrepreneurial skills.
• Athletics and competitive sports. Williams College values student-athletes and their dedication to teamwork, perseverance, and leadership. If you have played at the varsity, club, or recreational level, talk about the skills you have gained. Did you captain your team? Overcome an injury? Participate in high-level tournaments? Consider programs like Nike EYBL, US Youth Soccer ODP, or AAU Basketball to elevate your athletic profile.
• Cultural and diversity programs. If you have participated in cultural initiatives, advocacy work, or diversity-focused programs, highlight your role and contributions. Maybe you helped organize a heritage festival, led an inclusion workshop, or worked on an outreach program for underrepresented communities. Programs like Model UN can help reinforce your commitment to promoting inclusivity.

Williams College wants to see students who take initiative and drive change in their communities. Instead of listing your activities, focus on the impact you made, challenges you tackled, and leadership you demonstrated.

5. Secure strong recommendation letters.

Williams College requires one recommendation from your school counselor and two from teachers. These letters give admissions officers insight into your academic potential, intellectual curiosity, and personal qualities beyond just your grades. A strong recommendation can highlight your ability to think critically, contribute to discussions, and engage deeply with challenging material.

Tips for strong recommendation letters:

• Choose teachers who can speak to your academic strengths. Pick teachers from core subjects like English, math, science, history, or a foreign language—especially if they have taught you in rigorous classes like AP, IB, or honors. Williams College values intellectual curiosity, so a teacher who has seen you tackle complex topics or lead discussions is a great choice.
• Build a strong connection with your recommenders. Don’t wait until senior year to introduce yourself. Engage in class discussions, ask insightful questions, and seek feedback on your work. The more your teachers see your enthusiasm for learning, the more compelling their recommendations will be.
• Give your recommenders plenty of time. Teachers and counselors write many recommendation letters, so ask them at least a month before your deadline. This makes sure they have enough time to craft a thoughtful and detailed letter.
• Provide helpful context. Share a list of your academic interests, achievements, and key projects you’ve worked on. If you had a standout moment in their class—like leading a debate, solving a difficult problem, or going the extra mile on a research paper—remind them of it. The more details they have, the stronger their letter will be.
• Show appreciation. A simple thank-you note or a small token of gratitude can go a long way in maintaining a good relationship with your recommenders. It also makes them more inclined to write for you again if you need letters for scholarships or internships in the future.

Williams College does not accept additional recommendation letters beyond the required three. Make sure the ones you submit provide the best possible reflection of your strengths as a student and community member.

6. Consider applying Early Decision (ED).

If Williams College is your top choice, applying Early Decision could give you an advantage. For the Fall 2023 admissions cycle, 943 students applied through ED, and 255 were accepted. That puts the ED acceptance rate at 27%, which is higher than Williams College’s overall acceptance rate of 10% for that cycle.

Choosing ED shows the admissions team that Williams College is where you truly want to be. Colleges appreciate that level of commitment, and in some cases, it can give your application a boost. However, ED is binding, meaning if you are accepted, you must enroll and withdraw any other college applications.

Before making this decision, take time to think about whether Williams College is truly the right place for you. Consider the academic experience, campus culture, and financial commitment. Have a conversation with your family, explore financial aid options, and be sure you are fully prepared to commit.

ED can be a smart move for students who are 100% confident that Williams College is where they belong. If you are still unsure, it may be better to apply through Regular Decision (RD) to keep your options open.

Williams College Application Deadlines

Staying ahead of deadlines can make your college application experience much smoother. Whether you’re applying Early Decision or Regular Decision, keeping track of these key dates will help you stay organized and put together your strongest application.

A good way to stay on track? Mark these dates, set reminders, plan ahead, and give yourself enough time to go over your application before hitting submit. The earlier you get started, the smoother the process will be!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get into Williams College with low test scores?

Yes! Williams is test-optional, so you do not have to submit SAT or ACT scores if you feel they do not reflect your abilities. Admissions take a holistic approach, so they will focus on your GPA, extracurricular activities, and other strengths in your application.

If you do choose to send scores, aim for at least a 1550+ on the SAT or a 35+ on the ACT to stay competitive. If your scores are not where you want them to be, you can always retake the test to improve your chances.

2. What GPA do I need to get into Williams College?

Williams does not have an official minimum GPA requirement, but for a strong application, aim for around a 4.13 or higher. Most admitted students have taken rigorous coursework like AP, IB, or honors classes and ranked at the top of their class.

If your GPA is a little lower, do not worry. Williams evaluates applications holistically, so strong extracurriculars, leadership experience, and recommendation letters can help boost your application.

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

Yes. Applying Early Decision can give you an advantage because it shows Williams that it is your top choice. For the Fall 2023 cycle, Williams received 943 ED applications and admitted 255 students, which puts the ED acceptance rate at around 27%. That is significantly higher than the overall acceptance rate of 10% for that cycle, making ED a great option if you are sure Williams is the right fit.

Just keep in mind that Early Decision is binding, so if you get in, you must enroll and withdraw any other college applications.

4. Is Williams test-optional?

Yes. Williams does not require SAT or ACT scores, so you get to decide whether or not to submit them. If you feel they strengthen your application, go ahead and send them in. But if standardized testing is not your strong suit, you can leave them out without worrying about it hurting your chances. Williams reviews applications holistically, considering your coursework, extracurriculars, and recommendation letters.

5. How much does it cost to attend Williams College?

For the 2024-2025 academic year, Williams College’s tuition is $68,240. Once you factor in housing, meals, books, and other expenses, the total cost of attendance can be around $85,820. Financial aid is available, so make sure to check out what options you might qualify for.

Takeaways

Want to put together a strong application for Williams? Here is a quick breakdown of what matters most:

• With an acceptance rate of 7.5%, Williams is a highly selective school. To stand out, focus on showing your intellectual curiosity, leadership skills, and meaningful contributions to your school and community.
• Aiming for a 4.13+ GPA while taking rigorous courses like AP, IB, or honors classes will show that you can handle Williams’ academic expectations.
• Submitting test scores is optional, but if you choose to, aim for top scores. A strong SAT score is around 1550+, and a competitive ACT score is 35+.
• Your extracurriculars should highlight your impact. How have you grown? How have you contributed to your community? Williams looks for students who are deep thinkers, engaged in their surroundings, and bring a unique perspective to campus.
• Stressed about the application process? It can be a lot to manage, but working with a college admissions consultant can make things easier. A well-structured approach and a standout application can help you make a great impression on the Williams admissions team.