Overview
Southwestern University is a moderately selective private four-year institution in Georgetown, Texas. The school accepts 44.8% of applicants and enrolls 1,454 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 44.8%
- Average SAT
- 1,238
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,120–1,355
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 27
- Total Enrollment
- 1,454
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
Southwestern University puts unusual weight on demonstrated interest, so visit campus if possible and engage meaningfully with admissions events. The school tracks every interaction, from virtual sessions to email exchanges with your regional counselor.
Your essays should connect directly to Southwestern's Paideia program, which requires all students to complete collaborative research projects and internships. Write about how you plan to use these experiential learning opportunities rather than generic statements about wanting small classes. Mention specific faculty research or the Brown Symposium if their work aligns with your interests.
Apply through the Common Application but pay attention to Southwestern's supplemental questions, which change yearly and often focus on community service or leadership experiences. The admissions team reads for authenticity over achievement padding, so be specific about your actual role in activities rather than listing impressive-sounding titles.
The campus culture centers around close faculty relationships and undergraduate research opportunities. Students who succeed here actively seek out professors during office hours and jump into research early. Greek life exists but doesn't dominate social life the way it does at larger Texas schools. The Honor Code runs deep, creating an environment where students routinely take unproctored exams.
Georgetown's location thirty minutes north of Austin matters more than you might expect. Students regularly intern and work in Austin but return to a true college town atmosphere. If you need constant urban stimulation, this setup won't work for you. If you want access to city opportunities while maintaining campus community, it's ideal.
Submit your application by December 1st for merit scholarship consideration, even though regular decision runs until February. The school offers generous merit aid but awards it on a first-come basis among qualified candidates. Schedule your interview early in the process since they fill up quickly and can make a real difference for borderline candidates.
Don't submit generic "why this college" responses. Reference specific courses in the curriculum, name professors whose work interests you, or mention how the 3-2 engineering program with other universities fits your career plans. The admissions staff knows when you've done your homework versus recycling essays from similar schools.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $27,468/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $51,058
- Students Receiving Aid
- 23%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 69.3%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $56,878/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 83.0%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Southwestern University require SAT or ACT scores?
Southwestern University is test-optional, meaning you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores. You may still submit test scores if you believe they strengthen your application.
What is the application deadline for Southwestern University?
Southwestern University offers Early Decision (November 1), Early Action (December 1), and Regular Decision (February 1) deadlines. Early Decision is binding, while Early Action is non-binding.
How many transfer credits does Southwestern University accept?
Southwestern University accepts up to 66 transfer credit hours from community colleges and up to 90 credit hours from four-year institutions. Transfer students must complete at least 32 credit hours at Southwestern to graduate.
Does Southwestern University interview applicants for admission?
Southwestern University offers optional admission interviews conducted by alumni or admission staff. Interviews are evaluative and can be scheduled after submitting your application.