Wellesley Acceptance Rate

Wellesley College, a prestigious liberal arts college in Massachusetts, is known for its highly selective admissions process. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), Wellesley reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 13.9%, reflecting its competitive nature. This selectivity is influenced by a growing applicant pool, with thousands of highly qualified students applying each year, as well as trends toward increased applications due to test-optional policies and the college’s strong reputation for empowering women leaders. Wellesley College maintains transparency in its admissions data, often publishing detailed statistics through its official website and the Common Data Set, accessible at Wellesley Admissions.

• Overall Acceptance Rate: 13.9% for the Class of 2028, with approximately 8,700 applicants and 1,210 admitted students, marking a slight decrease from prior years.
• Early Decision Rate: Estimated at 30.0%, as early decision applicants often demonstrate strong commitment, leading to higher acceptance rates compared to regular decision; exact figures for 2028 are pending release.
• International Student Rate: Approximately 12.5%, reflecting Wellesley’s global appeal, though specific data for the latest cycle is unavailable; this estimate is based on historical trends.

Over the past decade, Wellesley’s acceptance rate has trended downward, signaling increasing competitiveness as more students seek admission to top-tier liberal arts colleges. The early decision process significantly boosts chances of acceptance, a common trend among selective institutions. Additionally, international student admissions remain highly competitive due to limited spots and a diverse applicant pool. Compared to peer institutions like Swarthmore and Amherst, Wellesley’s selectivity is on par, with acceptance rates often ranging between 10-15%. As application numbers continue to rise, prospective students are encouraged to highlight unique strengths and align with Wellesley’s mission of fostering intellectual and personal growth.