spark-admissions-logo Free Consultation

Washington University in St. Louis

Overview

Washington University in St. Louis

Washington University in St. Louis, commonly referred to as WashU, is a premier private research university known for its rigorous academic programs, distinguished faculty, and vibrant campus life. Located in the heart of St. Louis, Missouri, WashU combines the intimacy of a smaller university with the resources of a major research institution. With a strong commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity and a collaborative spirit, WashU offers a diverse range of programs across its seven schools, ensuring students receive a well-rounded and personalized education. Consistently ranked among the top universities in the nation, WashU attracts students from all over the world who are eager to contribute to its dynamic academic community. With a typical applicant pool of more than 32,000 applications from hopeful high school students each year, admissions officers had to make tough decisions, as only 12% of WashU applicants were ultimately accepted last year.

Spark Admissions’ college consulting results are 8X the national average for Ivy League admissions and 6X the national average for many top 50 colleges.

Free Consultation

WashU Academics

With a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1, WashU provides an intimate and engaging educational environment where students receive personalized attention and mentorship from distinguished faculty members. The curriculum is designed to encourage critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, allowing students to explore their interests deeply and broadly. Research opportunities are abundant, with state-of-the-art facilities and support for undergraduate and graduate research projects. Additionally, WashU emphasizes experiential learning by offering numerous ways for students to integrate real-world experiences into their educations through internships, study abroad programs, and community engagement. This dynamic academic setting ensures that students are well-prepared for their future careers and lifelong learning.

The student/faculty ratio at Washington University in St. Louis is 7:1 and 65% of classes have 20 students or fewer.

Washington University Undergraduate Colleges:

  • College of Arts and Sciences
  • McKelvey School of Engineering
  • Olin Business School
  • Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts

Popular Majors at WashU:

  • Biology
  • Psychology
  • Finance
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Economics
  • Political Science
  • Computer Science

Notable or Distinct Majors at WashU:

  • Anthropology
  • Global Health and Environment
  • Philosophy: Law and Policy
  • Philosophy of Science
  • Architecture
  • Educational Studies
  • Art and Archeology

Unique Academic Opportunities at WashU:

Washington University in St. Louis Admissions

WashU Application Details:

  • WashU does not require applicants to submit standardized test scores. According to recent reports, the 75th percentile SAT score of an admitted student was 1570, and the 75th percentile composite ACT score was 35.
  • The Common Application is accepted at WashU.
  • A personal statement or personal essay is part of the Common App.
  • WashU offers students the opportunity to submit an optional writing supplement and/or video supplement.
  • Students must submit a counselor recommendation, mid-year report, and school report.
  • First-year applicants must submit at least one teacher recommendation with their application.

Penn Application Deadlines

Early Decision
Nov 1
Regular Decision
Jan 3
Fall Transfer
Mar 1

Class Profile

Washington University in St. Louis Demographics (2023-2024):

  • Asian students: 27%
  • Black Students: 12%
  • Hispanic Students: 13%
  • White students: 35%
  • International students: 11%
  • First-generation college students: 17%
  • 52% women; 48% men

Life in St. Louis

With the campus set in an urban environment just 10 minutes from downtown St. Louis and 15 minutes from the airport, WashU offers vibrant and dynamic opportunities for exploration. Students can enjoy the convenience of being within walking distance of Forest Park, a sprawling green space that houses the St. Louis Zoo, museums, athletic fields, boat rentals, and golf courses. The nearby Delmar Loop offers a bustling strip of diverse restaurants, perfect for socializing and dining out. Additionally, the MetroLink rail system, easily accessible from campus, provides quick and efficient transportation throughout the city, enhancing the convenience and excitement of student life in St. Louis.

Activities:

  • “The Loop” in St. Louis is a vibrant neighborhood along Delmar Boulevard, known for its diverse range of restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. It’s a popular hangout spot for college students from nearby universities, offering lively dining, entertainment options, and community events.
  • Catch a Cardinals game and experience Major League Baseball at Busch Stadium.
  • Spend a day exploring the unique Experience City Museum, an interactive space made from various repurposed architectural and industrial objects.
  • Forest Park is a large urban park located near WashU. It’s a prominent attraction known for its extensive green spaces, trails, and recreational facilities, including the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, the Saint Louis Zoo, and the Muny Opera.
  • Check out performances at venues like the Fabulous Fox Theatre and Stifel Theatre.

WashU Campus Life:

The culture at WashU is collaborative and supportive, with a strong emphasis on community and personal growth. Students are actively involved in a variety of clubs, organizations, and activities that cater to diverse interests, fostering a sense of belonging and campus spirit. Greek life is present, providing opportunities for leadership, service, and social events, but it is just one of many ways students can get involved. The overall vibe at WashU is one of enthusiasm and intellectual curiosity, where students are encouraged to pursue their passions and make meaningful connections with their peers.

Social Activities:

  • Join one of the twelve fraternities or eight sororities on campus. Approximately 15-20% of students are involved with Greek life on campus.
  • Contribute to student-run newspapers, literary magazines, and radio stations like KWUR.
  • Get involved with sustainability initiatives and clubs like the Green Action and the Burning Kumquat, an on-campus organic garden.
  • Consider joining one of WashU’s theater productions, improv groups, dance troupes, or musical ensembles.
  • Join groups like the Outing Club for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.

WashU Traditions:

  • Get ready for WILD—short for Walk In Lay Down—the annual music festival held on the campus quad, featuring live performances, food, and entertainment.
  • The First 40 consists of a series of events during the first 40 days of the academic year aimed at helping new students get acclimated to campus life.
  • The Residential College Olympics allow space for friendly competition among the different residential colleges with various athletic and fun events.
  • The Thurtene Carnival is the oldest and largest student-run carnival in the U.S., featuring rides, games, food, and performances, organized by the Thurtene Honorary society.

WashU Housing and Dorms:

  • First-year students are required to live on campus in The South 40, which is like a small town, complete with student government, dining, fitness center, technology center, intramural fields, convenience store, and more.
  • A limited number of single rooms are available, along with identity-based Living Learning Communities (LLCs).
  • Most dorm rooms feature TempurPedic mattresses, and WashU’s dorms are very highly ranked overall.

Washington University in St. Louis Cost of Attendance

This estimate takes into account tuition and fees, housing and meals, books and supplies, and personal expenses for the 2023-2024 academic year.

Total tuition costs

$87,644
  • There are multiple opportunities to receive financial aid assistance including grants, work study programs, loans, and outside scholarships.

Get Into Washington University in St. Louis with Spark Admissions

Choosing to attend Washington University in St. Louis means becoming part of a vibrant, intellectually stimulating community. To enhance your chances of joining this esteemed institution, partnering with a college admissions consultant from the Spark Admissions team can provide you with a significant competitive edge. Each of our full-time college admissions counselors has the experience, insider knowledge, and dedication to help support you as you navigate the admissions process. Our consulting services are tailored to your individual needs and goals, and we can help you highlight your unique strengths and aspirations to maximize your chances of landing at the best-fit school for you. Our counselors are committed to providing empathetic support, guiding you through every step of the admissions process with expertise and care. Let Spark Admissions help you navigate your journey to WashU, setting the foundation for a successful and enriching college experience. Schedule a complimentary initial consultation with one of our dedicated expert admissions counselors to learn more.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Read more about getting into Competitive Colleges