Willamette University, located in Salem, Oregon, is a selective liberal arts institution known for its personalized education and strong community focus. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), Willamette reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 80.6%, based on data from historical Common Data Sets and recent trends published on the university’s official admissions website. This rate reflects a moderately selective admissions process, influenced by factors such as the size of the applicant pool, which has remained relatively stable in recent years, and a growing interest from diverse student demographics. While Willamette does provide some admission statistics through its official website and Common Data Set reports, specific breakdowns for the latest cycle may not always be publicly available at the time of reporting.
Over the past few years, Willamette University’s acceptance rate has hovered around 80%, indicating a stable level of selectivity compared to other liberal arts colleges in the Pacific Northwest. While the university has not seen the dramatic drops in acceptance rates observed at more competitive national institutions, there is a slight trend toward increased applications, particularly from international and out-of-state students, which may influence future cycles. Early action or decision applicants often benefit from marginally higher acceptance odds, as the university prioritizes students showing strong interest. Compared to peer institutions like Lewis & Clark College or Reed College, Willamette’s selectivity is less intense, making it an accessible yet respected option for prospective students seeking a balanced admissions process.
