Tulane University Ranking 2025: Stats + Admission Tips

If you’re considering applying to Tulane University, one of the first things you might wonder is how it ranks compared to other schools. Rankings can give you an idea of a university’s academic reputation, research strength, and overall value, but they don’t tell the whole story.

Let’s analyze Tulane’s national and global rankings from major sources like the U.S. News & World Report, Times Higher Education, and QS World University Rankings. If you’re serious about applying, we’ll also share some application tips to help boost your chances.

• How Does Tulane University Rank Nationally and Globally?
• Tulane University Application Process
• Other Tulane University Rankings
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Does Tulane University Rank Nationally and Globally?

Tulane University is a well-regarded institution in the U.S. with strong academic programs, a commitment to community engagement, and a vibrant campus in New Orleans. While it may not always land in the top 50 nationally, it consistently ranks well in areas like service learning, faculty-student ratio, and research quality.

To help you get a clearer picture of Tulane’s standing, here’s a breakdown of its rankings:

U.S. News & World Report

U.S. News & World Report is one of the most recognized college ranking systems, particularly in the U.S. It evaluates universities based on graduation rates, faculty resources, and student outcomes. Tulane performs well in several key areas:

Tulane’s #63 ranking in National Universities ranks it among the country’s top colleges. However, one of its standout rankings is #5 in service learning, highlighting its focus on community-based education. If you’re someone who values real-world learning experiences through internships and community work, Tulane could be a great fit.

Here are three examples that showcase Tulane’s commitment to service learning and community-based education:

• Tulane’s Center for Public Service (CPS). Tulane requires all undergraduates to complete a service-learning component for their degree. The Center for Public Service (CPS) connects students with local organizations, integrating classroom learning with hands-on community engagement. For example, students in public health courses have worked with the New Orleans Health Department to improve public health initiatives in underserved neighborhoods.
• Tulane’s Rebuild New Orleans Efforts. After Hurricane Katrina, Tulane played a major role in rebuilding New Orleans. The Tulane City Center, now part of the Albert and Tina Small Center for Collaborative Design, helps students work on architectural and urban design projects that support local communities. One notable project is the Grow Dat Youth Farm, where students partner with local youth to develop sustainable food systems and urban agriculture programs.
• Tulane Law School’s Immigrant Rights Clinic. Tulane Law students gain real-world legal experience through the Immigrant Rights Clinic, where they provide pro bono legal services to asylum seekers and immigrants. Under faculty supervision, students help with legal research, court representation, and advocacy, impacting those seeking refuge in the U.S.

From working with local organizations to rebuilding neighborhoods and advocating for immigrants, you’ll gain real-world experience while making an impact. If you want a college where you can learn, grow, and give back, Tulane could be the perfect fit.

Times Higher Education

The Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings take a global perspective, evaluating universities based on teaching quality, research impact, and international outlook. Tulane ranks in the 401-500 range worldwide. Here’s how it scores in different areas:

Tulane’s overall ranking might not be sky-high like some giant research universities, but when it comes to Research Quality (74.4) and Industry Engagement (66.1), it definitely stands out. Here are three ways Tulane gives you hands-on experience and connections that actually matter:

• Fighting deadly viruses like Ebola and Lassa fever. Tulane researchers are part of a $15 million federally funded project to study survivors of Ebola and Lassa fever, two of the deadliest viruses in the world. Partnering with the Scripps Research Institute, UCLA, MIT, and the Ragon Institute, Tulane’s team is working in West Africa to understand how some people survive these diseases while others don’t. If you’re into global health and virology, Tulane allows you to contribute to life-saving research that could help eradicate deadly viruses.
• Solving real-world problems through industry partnerships. Tulane actively collaborates with companies and organizations to turn discoveries into real-world solutions. For example, its Materials Science and Engineering program works with major corporations to develop biomedical devices and advanced manufacturing technologies. If you’re into innovation, Tulane’s industry ties mean you’ll get experience that puts you ahead in the job market.
• Hands-on environmental research in Louisiana’s wetlands. Want to protect the environment and combat climate change? Tulane’s ByWater Institute allows students to study coastal restoration, climate resilience, and sustainability in Louisiana’s wetlands. With the state facing rising sea levels and extreme weather, Tulane students are out in the field, conducting research that directly impacts the future of coastal communities.

At Tulane, research is hands-on and open to everyone, not just professors. Whether you’re passionate about health, technology, or the environment, Tulane allows you to make a real impact.

QS World University Rankings

The QS World University Rankings focus on academic reputation, employer reputation, faculty-student ratio, and international diversity. Tulane is ranked #631-640 globally in 2025. Here’s how it scores in key ranking criteria:

At Tulane, you won’t get lost in a sea of students with an 8:1 student-faculty ratio. In fact, 62% of classes have fewer than 20 students, so you’ll get a more personal, hands-on learning experience instead of just sitting through huge lectures. 

If you’re someone who learns best with more interaction, discussion, and support, Tulane’s small class sizes make that possible.

Tulane University Application Process

Applying to Tulane? Here’s a quick and easy guide to help you through the process. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way.

Step 1: Know what you need.

Before you apply, it’s important to check Tulane’s admission requirements so you don’t miss anything.

• High school curriculum recommendations. Tulane looks for a strong academic background. While there aren’t strict course requirements, having a solid mix of math, science, English, and social studies will strengthen your application.
• Additional submission requirements. If you’re a transfer or international student, you may need to submit extra documents, such as college transcripts or English proficiency test scores. Home-schooled students should also check for specific guidelines.
• Louisiana students. If you’re from Louisiana, you may qualify for state-specific admission programs and financial aid opportunities that could help reduce tuition costs.

Step 2: Choose your timeline.

Tulane offers four different application plans, so pick the one that fits your goals and timeline:

• Early Decision (binding). If Tulane is your absolute first choice, Early Decision might be your right path. You apply by November 1, and if accepted, you commit to enrolling and withdraw all other applications. This option is best if you’re 100% sure you want to attend Tulane and are ready to commit early.
• Early Decision II (binding). This works like Early Decision, but with a later deadline. You apply by January 15 and get a decision by February 15. It’s perfect if you decide later in the year that Tulane is your top choice. Like ED, if you’re accepted, you’re committing to Tulane.
• Early Action (non-binding). Want to apply early but still keep your options open? Early Action lets you apply by November 15 and hear back by January 10, but you don’t have to commit until May 1. It’s a great way to get an early response while still having time to decide.
• Regular Decision (non-binding). This is the most flexible option. You apply by January 15, hear back by April 1, and decide by May 1. It’s best to compare multiple college offers before making your final decision. However, remember that some Tulane scholarships have early deadlines in December, which RD applicants might miss.

Step 3: Submit your application.

Once you’ve picked your timeline, head to the Common Application and fill out your details. This is where you’ll submit your personal statement, list your activities, and provide other required materials.

Step 4: Track your status.

After submitting your application, check your email for your Green Wave Portal login details. This is your application dashboard where you can:

• Review your application checklist. Make sure everything is submitted and complete.
• Apply for scholarships. Some require extra applications, so check for deadlines.
• Monitor your financial aid status. Once you submit FAFSA and other financial aid forms, you can track them here.

Other Tulane University Rankings

Tulane has earned recognition in multiple categories, proving its impact inside and outside the classroom. From its influence in New Orleans to its strong reputation across Louisiana and beyond, here’s how Tulane stands out:

#1 in New Orleans

As the top university in New Orleans, Tulane puts you right in the middle of a city that feels like one big celebration. Live jazz spills out of Frenchmen Street clubs, second lines pop up when you least expect them, and the smell of beignets from Café du Monde or a backyard crawfish boil is just part of daily life.

One day, you’re catching a show at Tipitina’s; the next, you’re throwing beads at Mardi Gras or wandering the French Quarter’s historic streets. Here, the culture is something you become a part of.

#2 in Louisiana

Tulane is one of the best universities in Louisiana—ranked #2 in the state, right behind LSU. You’ll be studying coastal restoration out in the Mississippi River Delta, interning with a local nonprofit in the French Quarter, or diving into research at the Tulane National Primate Research Center. Whatever path you take, you’re building something bigger for yourself, right in the heart of Louisiana.

#20 for happiest students

Ranked #20 for colleges with happiest students by The Princeton Review, Tulane is built on tight-knit friendships, supportive professors who actually care, and a city that feels like an extension of campus.

You might spend your morning volunteering at a local school, your afternoon working on a research project about climate change, and your night singing along to a brass band in a neighborhood bar. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How hard is it to get into Tulane?

Tulane is pretty selective! For the Class of 2028, more than 32,000 students applied, but only about 4,500 got in. That means Tulane’s acceptance rate is around 14%. If you’re serious about applying, you’ll want to make your application stand out with strong academics, extracurricular involvement, and a great personal statement.

2. What is Tulane best known for?

Tulane is famous for its commitment to service learning, which means you’ll get hands-on experience working in the community as part of your education. It also has strong business, public health, engineering, and environmental science programs. Plus, with its location in New Orleans, you’ll be surrounded by a unique culture, incredible food, and one of the most exciting music scenes in the country.

3. Should I apply Early Decision to Tulane?

If Tulane is your absolute dream school, Early Decision (ED) could be a great move because it shows you’re fully committed. But remember that ED is binding, meaning if you’re accepted, you have to go. But if you’re unsure or want to compare financial aid offers from other schools, Early Action or Regular Decision might be the better way to go.

4. Is Tulane a good school?

Yes, Tulane is a good school. The academics are solid, with small classes and tons of hands-on learning opportunities, plus a big emphasis on public service. Students are happy, the community is tight, and you get to live in New Orleans. If you’re looking for a school that’s both challenging and a lot of fun, Tulane is a pretty awesome choice.

Takeaways

• U.S. News ranks Tulane #63 among National Universities. It shines in service learning, coming in at #5, perfect if you love hands-on experiences.
• On a global scale, Tulane is ranked in the 401-500 range in Times Higher Education rankings and lands in the #631-640 spot with QS, but it stands out in research and industry connections.
• Tulane is pretty selective, with an acceptance rate of around 14%, so bringing your A-game to your application is necessary.
• To get into Tulane, you need a strong academic and extracurricular record. You can apply through Early Decision, Early Action, or Regular Decision. Just be sure to check deadlines and scholarship opportunities.
• A college admissions expert can provide personalized support to craft a standout application and boost your chances of getting into Tulane.