Quick Summary
Private research university in St. Louis, United States — Washington University in St. Louis, est. 1853. Ranked #176 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 16551 students including 23% from outside United States. Known for strengths in Medicine, Anatomy & Physiology, Social Policy & Administration, it maintains an acceptance rate of 12%.
01
Institutional Profile
Who they are
Premier research institution with a collaborative 'WashU bubble' culture, world-class medical school, and elite status in the Midwest.
Subject Strengths
MedicineAnatomy & PhysiologySocial Policy & AdministrationBiological SciencesPsychologyArchitectureBusiness & Management
Founded1853
TypePrivate research university
Total Students16551
Intl Students23%
Faculty Ratio7:1
CampusSuburban
Campus Size169 acres
Affiliated HospitalsBarnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis Children's Hospital
AccreditationHigher Learning Commission (HLC)
02
Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#176
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#68
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#27
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Undergraduate, Graduate, Professional, Doctoral
Programs
More than 40 PhD programs across Arts & Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, and Social Work
PhD Programs
Available through University College (School of Continuing & Professional Studies)
Online Programs
McDonnell Genome Institute, Institute for Public Health, Skandalaris Center for Interdisciplinary Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate12%
IELTS7
TOEFL100
Min GPA3.8
GREOptional/Required for some graduate programs
GMATRequired for Olin Business School MBA
SAT1500-1570
ACT33-35
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · January 2
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
WashU values 'demonstrated interest' less than before, focusing heavily on academic rigor, the supplemental essay 'Why WashU', and community involvement. It is currently test-optional.
05
Cost Ledger
Annual estimate
UG Tuition
$64,500/yr
per year · USD
Living Cost
$22,500/yr
per year · USD
PG Tuition
$62,000/yr
per year · USD
Application Fee
$75
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
$87,000/yr
tuition + living + essentials · USD
Scholarships AvailableDanforth Scholars, Annika Rodriguez Scholars, John B. Ervin Scholars, Enterprise Holdings Scholars
Avg Scholarship$55,000
Financial AidNeed-blind for all domestic applicants; meets 100% of demonstrated need without loans.
Work-StudyFederal Work-Study and WashU Work-Study programs available
06
Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Undergraduate, Graduate, Professional, Doctoral programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Biology | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Computer Science | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Finance | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Psychology | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Mechanical Engineering | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Social Work | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
07
Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$82,000
Average Salary After Graduation
94%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementStrong support through the Career Center and Skandalaris Center
Industry Connections
Strong links with BoeingMonsanto (Bayer)Emerson Electricand Mastercard
Notable Alumni
Tennessee Williams, Peter Sarsgaard, Harold Ramis, Jack Dorsey (attended), Phyllis Schlafly
08
Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
Yes, guaranteed for all four years for undergraduates
Sports Facilities
Gary M. Sumers Recreation Center, Francis Olympic Field
Student Clubs
Over 450 student organizations including Assembly Series and various cultural groups
Library Resources
John M. Olin Library, Bernard Becker Medical Library
Exchange Programs
Over 100 programs in 50 countries
Summer Programs
Pre-College Programs, Summer School, International Summer Program