Washington University in St. Louis GPA Requirements: What You Need to Get In
Washington University in St. Louis (WashU), renowned for its pre-medical programs, business school, and research excellence, maintains highly competitive admission standards. Understanding the GPA requirements and admission statistics is essential for prospective students targeting this prestigious institution.
Quick Answer: Washington University in St. Louis typically admits students with a GPA of 3.9 or higher on a 4.0 scale. The average admitted student has a weighted GPA between 4.1-4.4.
Washington University GPA Requirements
Official GPA Statistics
Average GPA
3.92
Unweighted 4.0 scale
Middle 50% Range
3.8 - 4.0
25th to 75th percentile
Acceptance Rate
11.7%
Highly selective
Weighted GPA
4.1 - 4.4
Including AP/IB courses
GPA Requirements by School
| School/Program | Average GPA | Minimum Competitive GPA |
|---|---|---|
| Arts & Sciences | 3.93 | 3.8 |
| Olin Business School | 3.94 | 3.85 |
| McKelvey School of Engineering | 3.91 | 3.75 |
| Pre-Med Track | 3.95 | 3.9 |
| Sam Fox School (Art & Architecture) | 3.85 | 3.6 |
Washington University Admission Statistics
Class of 2028 Profile
- Applications Received: 31,213
- Students Admitted: 3,652
- Acceptance Rate: 11.7%
- Enrolled Students: 1,825
- Yield Rate: 50.0%
Academic Profile
- Average SAT: 1535
- Average ACT: 34
- Top 10% of Class: 93%
- Top 25% of Class: 99%
- National Merit Scholars: 35%
GPA Analysis for Washington University
What GPA Do You Need?
Minimum Competitive GPA: 3.7 (gives you a fighting chance)
Target GPA: 3.9+ for a realistic chance of admission
Safe GPA: 4.0 with strong extracurriculars and test scores
GPA Distribution of Admitted Students
Application Strategies
If Your GPA is Below 3.9
- High Test Scores: Aim for SAT 1550+ or ACT 35+
- Medical/Research Experience: Showcase healthcare or research involvement
- Leadership Roles: Demonstrate community impact and leadership
- Compelling Essays: Tell your unique story and show fit
- Early Decision: Consider ED to demonstrate commitment
Course Rigor Expectations
Expected Course Load:
- 8-12 AP courses (or IB/Honors equivalent)
- 4 years each: English, Math, Science, Social Studies
- 3+ years of foreign language
- Advanced science courses for pre-med track
- Challenging senior year schedule
WashU-Specific Tips
- Demonstrated Interest: WashU highly values demonstrated interest
- Research Focus: Highlight research experience and interests
- Community Service: Show commitment to helping others
- "Why WashU" Essay: Be specific about programs and opportunities
- Interview: Take advantage of optional interviews
GPA Calculator Tools
Use our specialized calculators to assess your Washington University admission chances:
How Washington University Compares
| University | Average GPA | Acceptance Rate | Average SAT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington University | 3.92 | 11.7% | 1535 |
| Northwestern | 3.92 | 7.0% | 1535 |
| Vanderbilt | 3.89 | 6.7% | 1530 |
| Emory University | 3.87 | 13.1% | 1520 |
Additional Resources
Conclusion
Getting into Washington University in St. Louis requires strong academic performance, with most admitted students having a GPA of 3.9 or higher. The school is particularly known for its pre-medical programs and values students who demonstrate a commitment to service and research.
WashU places significant emphasis on demonstrated interest, so make sure to engage with the school through visits, information sessions, and meaningful communication. Focus on showcasing your academic excellence while highlighting how you'll contribute to their collaborative community.