Overview
Washington and Lee University is a highly selective private four-year institution in Lexington, Virginia. The school accepts 17.0% of applicants and enrolls 1,884 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 17.0%
- Average SAT
- 1,472
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,410–1,533
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 33
- Total Enrollment
- 1,884
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
Washington and Lee's Honor System shapes every aspect of campus life and sets it apart from other elite liberal arts colleges. Your application needs to show genuine understanding of what it means to live in a community where exams are unproctored, students leave belongings unattended, and the Honor Code applies to all interactions. Generic essays about integrity won't work here.
The school operates on a unique academic calendar with a four-week Spring Term in May where you can pursue internships, research, or travel courses. Reference specific Spring Term opportunities in your essays to show you understand how this flexibility fits your goals. The Williams School within Washington and Lee offers specialized business programs, so apply directly if business interests you.
Your essays should demonstrate fit with the school's speaking tradition culture. Students here engage in formal debates, participate in Mock Convention every four years, and maintain strong connections through the alumni network concentrated in business and law. Don't write generically about leadership. instead, connect your experiences to specific traditions like Ring-tum Phi newspaper, student-run businesses, or the nationally recognized debate team.
The campus culture centers heavily on Greek life and formal social traditions. If you're uncomfortable with this environment or looking for a more diverse social scene, Washington and Lee might not be your best fit. Your application should reflect genuine interest in this particular community structure.
Early Decision provides a significant admissions advantage, but only apply ED if you've visited campus and understand the social actives. The school attracts many applicants who assume it's similar to other small liberal arts colleges without recognizing its distinct Southern tradition and honor-based community.
Don't overlook the Johnson Scholarship program for strong leadership and academic achievement. This highly competitive merit scholarship requires separate application materials and interviews, but provides full funding plus additional opportunities.
Your application should show familiarity with Lexington's small-town setting and how you'll contribute to a tight-knit community of under 2,000 students. Generic college essays about wanting a "small school experience" won't distinguish you from thousands of other applicants.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $23,911/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $64,525
- Students Receiving Aid
- 11%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 94.9%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $94,810/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 95.4%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Washington and Lee University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Washington and Lee University requires either SAT or ACT scores for admission. The school does not have a test-optional policy.
Does Washington and Lee University offer early decision or early action?
Washington and Lee University offers Early Decision I (deadline November 1) and Early Decision II (deadline January 1). The school does not offer early action.
Can you transfer to Washington and Lee University as a sophomore or junior?
Washington and Lee University accepts transfer students for fall semester entry. Transfer applicants must complete at least one full year of college coursework before enrolling.
What is the application deadline for Washington and Lee University?
The regular decision application deadline for Washington and Lee University is January 1. Early Decision I is due November 1 and Early Decision II is due January 1.