Overview
Tulane University of Louisiana is a highly selective private four-year institution in New Orleans, Louisiana. The school accepts 11.5% of applicants and enrolls 7,759 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 11.5%
- Average SAT
- 1,440
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,370–1,510
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 32
- Total Enrollment
- 7,759
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
Tulane's admissions officers want to see your connection to New Orleans and your willingness to engage with the city beyond campus boundaries. The school sits in one of America's most culturally rich cities, and admissions readers expect you to articulate why this specific place matters to your education and personal growth.
Your essays should reference specific aspects of New Orleans culture, whether that's the music scene, the complex history, the environmental challenges, or the entrepreneurial spirit. Generic statements about wanting to experience "diversity" won't cut it here. Research the city's neighborhoods, festivals, and social issues, then connect them to your academic interests or personal values.
Tulane offers Early Decision, which provides a significant admissions advantage, but you must be certain about your commitment. The school also has a unique Public Service Requirement where all undergraduates must complete two courses involving community service. Address this requirement in your application by discussing previous volunteer work or community involvement, but avoid generic charity work descriptions.
Don't assume Tulane is a safety school because of its party reputation or post-Katrina rebuilding narrative. The university has become increasingly selective and academically focused. Your application should emphasize intellectual curiosity about specific programs like the Newcomb-Tulane College's coordinate system or the school's strong pre-med track.
The supplemental essay asking why Tulane is the right fit requires specificity about professors, research opportunities, or study abroad programs. Mentioning the school's well-known business programs or engineering school without connecting them to your goals appears lazy. Instead, reference specific faculty research, the Innovation Institute, or particular study abroad options in your intended field.
Your application should show resilience and adaptability, qualities the city and school have embodied since Hurricane Katrina. Tulane wants students who can handle challenges and contribute to rebuilding efforts, whether academic, social, or community-based. Show how you've overcome obstacles or helped others do the same.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $43,939/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $65,538
- Students Receiving Aid
- 9%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 88.9%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $63,268/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 94.4%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Tulane University of Louisiana require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Tulane is test-optional, meaning you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores. However, submitting strong test scores may strengthen your application.
What are the application deadlines for Tulane University of Louisiana?
Tulane offers Early Decision I (November 15), Early Decision II (January 15), and Regular Decision (January 15). Early Action is not available.
Can you transfer to Tulane University of Louisiana as a sophomore?
Yes, Tulane accepts transfer students for fall and spring semesters. Transfer applicants need at least 30 college credit hours and must submit college transcripts along with their application.
What makes Tulane University of Louisiana's application process unique?
Tulane requires a school-specific essay called 'Why Tulane' in addition to the Common Application essay. The school also considers demonstrated interest heavily in admissions decisions.