Washington and Lee University
Lexington, Virginia · Private
Washington and Lee University admitted 14% of 8,963 applicants (Common Data Set 2025-2026). First-year students who sent the SAT scored 1430–1530 in the middle half. Test scores are optional. 95% of students graduate within six years.
Your chances at Washington and Lee University
Enter a score to see whether Washington and Lee University is a reach, target or likely school for you.
It admits 14% of applicants, so it’s a reach for everyone, even with perfect scores.
A rough read from the admit rate and test scores only. Grades, courses, essays and activities matter as much or more.
Early decision and early action
Early decision applicants were admitted at 28% (289 of 1,048), compared with 14% for all applicants.
Early applicants often include recruited athletes and students with stronger applications, so the gap overstates how much applying early helps one student.
1,274 students were offered a spot on the waitlist, 604 took it, and 2 were admitted from it.
What admissions weighs
How Washington and Lee University rates each part of an application, from its Common Data Set.
Very important
- Course rigor
- Recommendations
- Activities
- Character
Important
- –
Considered
- Class rank
- GPA
- Test scores
- Essay
- Interview
- Talent or ability
- First generation
- Legacy
- Where you live
- State residency
- Volunteering
- Work experience
- Showing interest
Not considered
- Religion
What it costs
Full price with housing is $87,000 a year. After grants, students paid $24,667 on average.
Average price after grants, by family income:
Not sure which colleges fit?
A Clarity Prep mentor builds a balanced list with your student and checks in every week until it’s done.
Writing your essay? Try the free college essay grader.