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September 25, 2024

Washington University in St. Louis 2024 Admission Statistics: Insights & Tips for College Applicants

Introduction

Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) is a prestigious private research university known for its strong academic programs, supportive community, and commitment to diversity. For the Fall 2023 admissions cycle, WashU received 32,240 applications, admitting 3,855 students, yielding an acceptance rate of 11.9%. In this blog, we break down WashU’s admissions data and offer tips for crafting a competitive application.

Key WashU Admission Stats for 2024 Applicants

Based on WashU’s 2023-2024 Common Data Set, here are some key figures for prospective students:

Total Applicants: 32,240
Total Admitted: 3,855 (11.9% acceptance rate)
Total Enrolled: 1,828
Test Scores (Middle 50%):
- SAT Composite: 1500-1570
- ACT Composite: 33-35

These numbers indicate WashU’s highly selective admissions process, especially for programs like business, pre-med, and engineering.

What WashU Values: Key Factors in Admission

WashU considers a combination of academic and personal factors when reviewing applications. Based on the Common Data Set, here’s what WashU prioritizes:

Rigor of Secondary School Record: WashU values students who have taken challenging courses, including AP, IB, or honors classes.
Application Essay: A compelling personal essay for university admission is essential. WashU looks for essays that reflect leadership, intellectual curiosity, and personal growth.
Extracurricular Activities: Leadership roles, sustained involvement, and community engagement will boost your application.
Test Scores: WashU remains test-optional for 2024, but submitting high SAT or ACT scores can help.

Enrollment Insights: Diversity and Inclusivity

WashU is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive campus environment. Here’s the breakdown of the student demographics for Fall 2023:

Total Undergraduate Enrollment: 8,267
Gender Breakdown:
- Men: 3,526
- Women: 3,997
Diversity Breakdown:
- White, non-Hispanic: 41.5%
- Asian, non-Hispanic: 20.4%
- Black or African American, non-Hispanic: 9.4%
- Hispanic/Latino: 12.3%
- International Students: 8.6%

Financial Aid at WashU: Supporting Students

WashU is committed to making education accessible through robust financial aid packages. For the 2023-2024 academic year:

Average Financial Aid Package: $72,252
Percent of Undergraduates Receiving Financial Aid: 67%
Percent of Need Met: 100%

WashU’s financial aid includes need-based grants, scholarships, and work-study programs, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to succeed.

Test-Optional Policy: Should You Submit Your Scores?

WashU has a test-optional policy for the 2024 admissions cycle, giving students the choice of whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. Here’s the breakdown for the 2023 cycle:

SAT Submissions: 29% of admitted students
ACT Submissions: 28% of admitted students

Submitting strong test scores may strengthen your application if they fall within or above WashU’s middle 50% range. Otherwise, focus on your academic record and personal essay for university admission.

Tips for Writing a Standout WashU Application Essay

The personal essay for university admission is a crucial part of your WashU application. Here are some tips to help your essay stand out:

Show Leadership and Initiative WashU values students who have made an impact through leadership roles. Share a story about a time when you led a project or initiative that made a difference.
Be Authentic and Reflective Admissions officers want to hear about your personal growth. Use your essay to tell a story about a challenge you’ve overcome and how it shaped your perspective.
Use AI Tools for Feedback Consider using an AI admission essay editor or an AI admission essay generator to refine your essay. These tools provide real-time feedback on clarity, grammar, and structure, helping you submit a polished final draft.

Additional Advice for WashU Applicants

Focus on Academic Rigor: WashU places a strong emphasis on students who have excelled in challenging coursework. Highlight your success in AP, IB, or honors classes.
Consult College Counselors: For personalized guidance, consider working with college counselors near you or using online platforms like GoodGoblin for feedback on your essay and application.

Conclusion

With an acceptance rate of 11.9%, WashU’s admissions process is competitive. To improve your chances, focus on strong academics, leadership, and writing a compelling personal essay for university admission. For additional support, consider using AI tools or consulting a college admissions counselor.

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