Overview
Reed College is a selective private four-year institution in Portland, Oregon. The school accepts 30.8% of applicants and enrolls 1,407 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 30.8%
- Average SAT
- 1,410
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,320–1,500
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 32
- Total Enrollment
- 1,407
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
Reed requires all applicants to write "Why Reed" essays that go far beyond generic liberal arts praise. Your essay must demonstrate specific knowledge of Reed's conference method, where students lead their own discussions without grades until senior year, and explain how you'll contribute to this academic model. Research particular professors whose work aligns with your interests and mention their research or teaching approaches.
The honor principle defines everything at Reed. Students take unproctored exams, design their own academic schedules, and hold each other accountable for academic integrity. Your application should show you can handle this level of independence and self-direction. Avoid writing about needing structure or guidance to succeed.
Reed's senior thesis requirement is mandatory and intensive. Every student spends their final year completing original research in their major field. Use your essays to discuss potential thesis topics or research questions that genuinely interest you. Admissions officers want to see you can sustain focus on deep academic work.
The campus culture attracts intellectuals who prefer late-night philosophy discussions to traditional college social scenes. Students here read voraciously, debate ideas passionately, and often continue academic conversations outside class. Your application should reflect genuine love of learning rather than career preparation as your primary motivation.
Reed's nuclear reactor offers unique undergraduate research opportunities in physics and chemistry. The Humanities program requires all first-years to engage with classical texts and contemporary analysis. If you're interested in interdisciplinary work, highlight how you've already combined different academic fields in your current studies or projects.
Your recommendation letters matter significantly here. Choose teachers who can speak to your ability to think independently, engage with complex ideas, and contribute meaningfully to classroom discussions. Generic praise about being a "good student" won't help your case.
Apply early decision if Reed is your clear first choice. The school admits a higher percentage of early decision candidates and wants students who are genuinely committed to attending. Don't apply early decision if you need to compare financial aid offers from multiple schools.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $39,951/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $67,020
- Students Receiving Aid
- 12%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 75.9%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $62,927/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 85.8%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Reed College require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Reed College has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether or not to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Reed College?
Reed College offers Early Decision with a November 15 deadline and Regular Decision with a January 15 deadline. Early Decision is binding, meaning admitted students must enroll.
Can you transfer to Reed College from another college?
Reed College accepts transfer students for fall and spring semesters. Transfer applicants must complete at least one year of college coursework before applying.
What makes Reed College's academic program different from other schools?
Reed requires all students to complete a senior thesis project and attend a year-long humanities course called Humanities 110. The college also operates without letter grades in most courses, using written evaluations instead.