Overview
Brandeis University is a selective private four-year institution in Waltham, Massachusetts. The school accepts 39.4% of applicants and enrolls 3,663 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 39.4%
- Average SAT
- 1,450
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,370–1,530
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 33
- Total Enrollment
- 3,663
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Brandeis admissions officers pay close attention to your commitment to social justice and community engagement, reflecting the university's founding mission as a nonsectarian institution welcoming students regardless of background. Your essays should showcase specific ways you've worked to address inequality or build bridges between different communities, not just theoretical interest in these topics.
The Justice Brandeis Semester program offers incoming students a chance to explore social justice through coursework and community partnerships in your first semester. Mentioning this program in your supplemental essays shows you understand what makes Brandeis distinct from other liberal arts universities. Similarly, the Heller School for Social Policy and Management provides undergraduate research opportunities in areas like sustainable international development and social entrepreneurship.
Your application will benefit from demonstrating intellectual flexibility across disciplines. Brandeis operates without distribution requirements, giving you complete freedom to design your academic path. Admissions readers want to see that you can handle this responsibility and have genuine academic interests beyond checking boxes. Connect your extracurricular activities to potential academic exploration rather than listing achievements without context.
The campus culture attracts students who question assumptions and engage in substantive debates. You'll fit well if you enjoy challenging conversations about complex issues and want classmates who care about making positive change. The student body skews politically liberal and socially conscious, but values hearing different perspectives when presented thoughtfully.
Submit your application by January 1st for regular decision. Brandeis offers both Early Decision I (November 1st) and Early Decision II (January 1st) options if you're certain about your choice. The supplemental essay asks why you want to attend Brandeis specifically, so avoid generic responses about small class sizes or research opportunities that could apply anywhere. Instead, reference specific professors, programs, or campus initiatives that align with your goals.
Consider applying to the Myra Kraft Open Doors Scholars Program if you're a first-generation college student. This program provides additional support and community, and indicating your interest demonstrates awareness of Brandeis's commitment to expanding access to higher education.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $33,885/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $64,946
- Students Receiving Aid
- 14%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 86.1%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $77,231/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 90.3%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Brandeis University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Brandeis University is test-optional, meaning you can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. Students who feel their test scores strengthen their application may include them.
What are the application deadlines for Brandeis University?
Brandeis offers Early Decision I (November 1), Early Decision II (January 1), and Regular Decision (January 1). Early Decision is binding, while Regular Decision is not.
Can I transfer to Brandeis University as a sophomore or junior?
Brandeis accepts transfer students for fall and spring semesters. Transfer applicants need college transcripts and typically complete at least one full year of college coursework before transferring.
What makes Brandeis University different from other liberal arts colleges?
Brandeis is actually a research university, not a liberal arts college, with strong graduate programs alongside undergraduate studies. The school has no religious requirements despite its Jewish heritage and founding.