Amherst College, a prestigious liberal arts institution in Massachusetts, is known for its highly selective admissions process. For the Class of 2028, Amherst reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 7.0%, reflecting its continued competitiveness among top-tier colleges. This selectivity is driven by a growing applicant pool, with thousands of highly qualified students vying for a limited number of spots each year. Factors such as academic rigor, extracurricular involvement, and holistic review processes contribute to the low acceptance rate. Fortunately, Amherst College provides transparent admission statistics through its official website and the Common Data Set, offering prospective students reliable insights into their chances of admission. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, applicants are encouraged to visit Amherst’s admissions page.
Over the past decade, Amherst College’s acceptance rate has trended downward, indicative of increasing competitiveness as more students apply to elite liberal arts colleges. The Early Decision option remains a strategic pathway for admission, with a notably higher acceptance rate compared to regular decision. International student admissions are particularly competitive due to limited spots and a strong global interest in Amherst’s academic offerings. Compared to peer institutions like Williams College and Swarthmore College, Amherst’s selectivity is on par, often hovering within the 6-10% range for overall admissions. This consistent trend underscores Amherst’s reputation as a top destination for high-achieving students seeking a personalized and rigorous education.
