
204 W. Washington St., Lexington, VA 24450, USA


Washington and Lee University holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), which is a recognized regional accrediting body. This accreditation affirms that the university meets established standards for quality in areas such as faculty qualifications, curriculum, student services, and institutional governance. For prospective students, this means that degrees awarded by the university are widely accepted and that the institution maintains rigorous academic standards. Additionally, accreditation status ensures eligibility for federal financial aid programs and facilitates credit transferability should students decide to continue their education elsewhere.
Washington and Lee University has a selective admission process with an acceptance rate of 17%, placing it among the more competitive institutions. Prospective students must have completed secondary school with a required high school record, and a General Educational Development (GED) diploma is also accepted. Applicants are required to submit recommendations and demonstrate prior college program experience. While standardized test scores are not strictly required, submission of other tests is recommended. The university does not operate under an open admission policy, and dual credit or general college credits are not accepted; however, Advanced Placement (AP) credits are considered.
The university attracts academically strong applicants, reflected in average standardized test scores. The mean SAT score is notably high at 1470, putting students in the top 5 percentile nationally. This breaks down to 745 in math and 725 in writing, both classified as very high. The mean ACT score follows a similar pattern, averaging 34 and also ranking in the top 5 percentile. Despite this stringent academic profile for incoming students, the number of applicants is average relative to other institutions with approximately 6,820 candidates, with women and men applying in nearly equal numbers.
Washington and Lee University requires an application fee for prospective students submitting their admission requests. This fee is set to cover the administrative costs associated with processing applications. However, the university recognizes that financial constraints can limit access to higher education and, as such, offers waivers for this fee under certain conditions.
Fee waivers are available for students who demonstrate genuine financial need or who participate in programs designed to support underrepresented or economically disadvantaged applicants. These waivers aim to reduce barriers and encourage a more diverse applicant pool. Prospective students interested in obtaining a fee waiver must typically provide documentation or meet specific eligibility criteria established by the university's admissions office.
Applicants are encouraged to consult the admissions office directly to understand the application fee amount, the process for requesting a waiver, and any supporting materials required to qualify. This approach ensures that all students have the opportunity to apply without financial obstacles.
Washington and Lee University offers access to ROTC programs through a branch unit arrangement at a cooperating host institution. This setup allows students to participate in military training and leadership development while completing their studies at Washington and Lee. Although the university itself does not host a standalone ROTC unit, it facilitates opportunities for those interested in pursuing an ROTC commission by partnering with nearby institutions that maintain active programs.
Washington and Lee University permits transfer students to apply for admission in the fall term. The institution accepts transfer credits, allowing students to carry forward coursework completed elsewhere, which can facilitate a smoother transition into their academic programs. However, details regarding acceptance of specific credit types such as CLEP or DANTES examinations are not provided.
Washington and Lee University offers a variety of study abroad programs designed to enrich the academic experience of its students while providing global perspectives. The university encourages participation in programs that range from faculty-led short-term trips to semester-long exchanges at partner institutions across the world. These opportunities span multiple disciplines, allowing students to tailor their international studies to their individual academic and career goals.
Among the options available, students may engage in immersive language and culture programs or pursue internships abroad linked to their majors. The university supports programs in Europe, Asia, and other regions, with some opportunities integrated into the curriculum for credit towards their degrees. This structure enables students to continue their progress toward graduation while benefiting from exposure to diverse cultures and educational systems.
Washington and Lee University also collaborates with established study abroad providers and direct partner universities to offer programs that balance academic rigor with experiential learning. Participants often gain valuable insights through site visits, community engagement, and coursework led by resident or visiting faculty. This multifaceted approach helps students develop a deeper understanding of global issues relevant to their fields of study and fosters personal growth through cross-cultural interaction.
Median composite SAT score
1470Median composite ACT score
34Percent of students submitting ACT scores
19.92%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
23.52%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
Data not availableSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
Data not availableAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
Data not availableOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
Data not availableStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
YesApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
NoEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
Data not availableAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall