Williams Acceptance Rate

Williams College, located in Williamstown, Massachusetts, is renowned for its rigorous admissions process and highly selective undergraduate programs. For the Class of 2028, Williams reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 8.0%, reflecting its status as one of the most competitive liberal arts colleges in the United States. 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 excellence, extracurricular involvement, and holistic review processes contribute to the low acceptance rate. Fortunately, Williams College provides transparent admission statistics through its official website and the Common Data Set, offering prospective students reliable data to understand their chances of admission.

• Overall Acceptance Rate: 8.0% for the Class of 2028, with approximately 11,000 applicants and around 880 admitted students, consistent with recent years of high selectivity.
• Early Decision Rate: Estimated at 18.0%, as early decision applicants often demonstrate strong commitment to attending Williams, resulting in a higher acceptance rate compared to regular decision. Exact figures for the latest cycle are pending release.
• International Student Rate: Approximately 7.5%, reflecting a slightly more competitive process due to limited spots and a global applicant pool. Historical data suggests around 8-10% of the admitted class are international students.

Over the past decade, Williams College has seen a steady decline in acceptance rates, indicative of increasing competitiveness as more students apply each year. The early decision program plays a significant role, with a notably higher acceptance rate that benefits applicants who commit early. International admissions remain highly selective, aligning with trends at peer institutions like Amherst and Swarthmore, where global demand continues to rise. Compared to other top liberal arts colleges, Williams’ selectivity places it among the most challenging to gain admission to, often rivaling Ivy League schools. Prospective students are encouraged to explore detailed statistics on the Williams College Admissions website for the most up-to-date information and to better prepare for the application process.