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Washington and Lee University

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

Washington and Lee University award
Washington and Lee University award
US ranking
position: 1087
Tuition & fees per year: $71,365
Acceptance rate: 17.00%
Median alumni salary: $60,434
Avg. SAT and ACT: 1470 SAT, 34 ACT
Entrance difficulty: Very hard

What is the accreditation of Washington and Lee University?

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.

What are the admission requirements at Washington and Lee University?

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.

What are the application fees and waivers at Washington and Lee University?

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.

What types of ROTC programs are available at Washington and Lee University?

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.

What are the requirements for transfer students at Washington and Lee University?

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.

What types of study abroad programs are available at Washington and Lee University?

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.

Washington and Lee University Admissions Factors

Avg. SAT score 1470
SAT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students
Avg. ACT score 34
ACT Composite median score for all enrolled full-time and part-time first-year degree-seeking students.
Acceptance rate 17%

ACT scores of enrolled students

ACT in range 24-29
ACT in range 30-36

Washington and Lee University Admissions

Applicants Total: 6,820
Admission Total: 1,184
Enrolled Total: 502
Women
Men

Washington and Lee University Admission Requirements

Median composite SAT score

1470

Median composite ACT score

34

Percent of students submitting ACT scores

19.92%

Percent of students submitting SAT scores

23.52%

High school completions

General Educational Development (GED) required

Computer required

No

Computer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution

No

Secondary school GPA

Data not available

Secondary school rank

Data not available

Secondary school record

Required

Completion of college-preparatory program

Required

Recommendations

Required

Formal demonstration of competencies

Data not available

Admission test scores

Data not available

TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language

Data not available

Other Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)

Recommended

Open admission policy

No

Dual credit

No

Credit for life experiences

No

Advanced placement (AP) credits

Yes

Special learning opportunities

Orientation program

Yes

Disabilities services

Yes

Off-campus study

Yes

ROTC-Army

ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institution

ROTC-Navy

ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institution

ROTC-Air Force

ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institution

Study abroad

Yes

Weekend/evening college

Data not available

Student can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization

Yes

Preparation at another institution required

Yes

Approved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher

No

Washington and Lee University Transfer Acceptance Rate

Entrance difficulty for transfer students

Data not available

Generally accepts credits

Data not available

Accept ACE recommendation for credit

Yes

Possible transfer

Fall

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