WashU Acceptance Rate 2026: Why 61% of the Class Is Filled Through Early Decision
By Rona Aydin
What Is WashU’s Acceptance Rate for the Class of 2030?
WashU has not yet released complete Class of 2030 data. For the most recent fully reported cycle, WashU admitted approximately 12% of 32,741 applicants (WashU CDS, 2024-2025). The acceptance rate has fallen from approximately 15% to 12% over the past five years as applications surged and the admitted class held relatively steady. WashU’s ED program fills the majority of the incoming class, making Regular Decision dramatically more competitive. For context, see our Top 25 admissions statistics.
| Class | Applications | Admitted (est.) | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class of 2029 | 32,741 | 3,951 | ~12% |
| Class of 2028 | ~33,000 | ~3,960 | ~12% |
| Class of 2027 | ~30,000 | ~3,900 | ~13% |
| Class of 2026 | ~29,000 | ~4,060 | ~14% |
| Class of 2021 | ~22,000 | ~3,520 | ~16% |
Source: WashU CDS, WashU Admissions, 2017-2025.
Why Does WashU Fill 61% of Its Class Through Early Decision?
WashU’s ED program is one of the most aggressive among top-20 schools. For the Class of 2029, 1,197 of 1,963 enrolled students (61%) were admitted through ED I or ED II (Student Life). The ED acceptance rate is approximately 25%, more than double the overall rate of 12%. This means Regular Decision applicants face an effective acceptance rate likely in the single digits, since most spots are already filled. If WashU is your top choice, applying ED is not just strategic, it is practically necessary. For early strategy, see our ED vs RD guide.
| Class | ED Rate (est.) | % of Class via ED | Overall Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class of 2029 | ~25% | 61% | ~12% |
| Class of 2027 | 26% | ~55% | ~13% |
| Class of 2023 | ~35% | 38% | ~15% |
Source: WashU CDS, Student Life newspaper, Ivy Coach analysis.
What GPA and Test Scores Do You Need for WashU?
WashU reinstated standardized testing requirements for the current cycle. The middle 50% SAT range is 1500-1570 and ACT is 33-35. The average admitted GPA is 3.92 unweighted (WashU CDS). WashU values academic rigor and expects applicants to have taken the most challenging courses available at their school. For testing strategy, see our test strategy guide.
How Does WashU Compare to Ivy League and Peer Schools?
| School | Acceptance Rate | % Class via ED |
|---|---|---|
| Duke | ~5% | ~50% |
| Northwestern | ~7% | ~55% |
| Vanderbilt | ~6% | ~55% |
| Notre Dame | 9% | N/A (REA) |
| WashU | ~12% | 61% |
| Tufts | 10% | ~45% |
Source: Institutional announcements, CDS data, 2024-2026.
What Does WashU Look for in Applicants?
WashU uses a holistic review process that weighs academic rigor, intellectual curiosity, and community engagement. The Olin Business School and the pre-med track through the College of Arts & Sciences are the most competitive paths. WashU values students who demonstrate cross-disciplinary interests, which aligns with the university’s “Boundless” curriculum that encourages exploration across schools. Supplemental essays should reference specific programs, faculty, or initiatives. For essay strategy, see our Common App essay guide. For building a competitive profile, see our guides on summer programs and high school internships.
What Are Your Chances on the WashU Waitlist?
WashU’s waitlist is inconsistent. The university admitted 0 students from the waitlist for the Classes of 2026, 2019, 2017, and 2015. In years when the waitlist is used, it can be moderately active. The high percentage of the class filled through ED (61%) reduces the number of waitlist spots available. If waitlisted, write a strong Letter of Continued Interest. For complete data, see our waitlist rates comparison.
Final Thoughts: WashU Admissions in 2026
WashU’s 12% acceptance rate understates how competitive it really is. With 61% of the class filled through ED, Regular Decision applicants face an effective rate likely in the single digits. Families who view WashU as a “backup” to Ivy League schools are making a strategic error. At Oriel Admissions, our team of former admissions officers from Harvard, Princeton, and Columbia has helped students earn acceptances to WashU and other top universities. Schedule a consultation to discuss how we can help.
WashU’s acceptance rate is approximately 12% based on the most recent fully reported cycle (32,741 applicants, 3,951 admitted). However, with 61% of the class filled through Early Decision, the effective Regular Decision rate is likely in the single digits.
Yes. 61% of the Class of 2029 was admitted through ED I or ED II. This is one of the highest ED fill rates among top-20 universities. If WashU is your top choice, applying ED is practically necessary to have competitive odds.
WashU’s overall rate (~12%) is slightly higher than Tufts (10%) and Notre Dame (9%). However, WashU’s RD rate is likely lower than both due to the 61% ED fill rate. The effective difficulty depends heavily on whether you apply ED.
Yes. WashU reinstated standardized testing requirements. The middle 50% SAT range is 1500-1570 and ACT is 33-35. Scores are now required, not optional.
No. WashU’s 12% acceptance rate is comparable to Cornell and Georgetown from five years ago. With the 61% ED fill rate, RD applicants face single-digit odds. Treating WashU as a safety is a strategic mistake that leads to under-investment in the application.
WashU is nationally recognized for its medical school, Olin Business School, and pre-med undergraduate track. The university also has strong programs in political science, engineering, and social work through the Brown School. The Olin Business School is among the most competitive undergraduate business programs in the country.
Inconsistently. WashU admitted 0 students from the waitlist for the Classes of 2026, 2019, 2017, and 2015. When it does use the waitlist, it can admit up to several hundred students. The 61% ED fill rate reduces the number of waitlist spots available.
WashU competes directly with Brown, Cornell, and Dartmouth for academically strong students. Its pre-med advising, research access, and Olin Business School are legitimate differentiators. The St. Louis campus offers a more intimate community than urban Ivies. For families who value pre-med or business, WashU is a peer, not a fallback.
