Just Released: Wellesley College’s Acceptance Rate

See Wellesley’s official announcement below:

This year, Wellesley received just over 8,400 first-year applications, the second-highest number in College history. On March 18, 13% of the applicants were offered admission.

Here’s a look at the admitted class of 2027:

• They hail from 46 states plus the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico, as well as 33 countries outside the United States.
• 64% are domestic students of color, identifying as African American, Asian American, Latina or Hispanic, Native American, or multiracial.
• 23% will be the first generation in their families to attend a four-year college.
• 11% are international citizens.
• 52% speak a language other than English in their homes.

This was the third year Wellesley suspended the standardized testing requirement, making testing optional for applicants. 

“Over the last five months, the admission committee has had the opportunity to ‘meet’ students from around the country and the world who have connected with and want to be a part of the Wellesley community,” said T. Peaches Valdes, dean of admission and financial aid. “It is a truly humbling experience and although we had difficult decisions to make, I know that the team does not take this for granted. For those admitted to Wellesley, we are excited that they see this as the place to begin their college journey.” 

Valdes encourages admitted students and their families to take advantage of the virtual and on-campus events that will be offered over the coming weeks and accessible via their student portal. “We have coordinated opportunities to connect with our impressive faculty, students, staff, and alumnae to learn more about what makes Wellesley distinct,” she said. “Most importantly, we want to provide the opportunity for you to envision yourselves as part of our community.”

TTA Takeaway: While Wellesley continues to prioritize a diverse incoming class, there is conflict brewing between Wellesley students and administrators regarding their admissions policies. Although students approved a non-binding referendum to change admission policies to accept transgender men and use more inclusive language in campus communications, administrators responded on Wednesday that “there is no plan” to change Wellesley’s admissions policy. We will keep an eye on how student-led efforts continue to put pressure on the admissions office and administration.