Amherst College
Amherst, MA · Northeast
- Acceptance rate
- 9.0%
- SAT mid-50
- 1490-1580
- Cost after aid
- $23,367
- Graduation rate
- 94%
About Amherst College
Amherst College is a very small private university in Amherst, MA, in a city setting.
What Amherst College looks for
Amherst College accepts roughly 9%, which means a strong application is necessary but not sufficient. Most admitted students are at or above the mid-50 in test scores and have at least one extracurricular thread that AOs read as substantive. The supplements matter. The "why us" essay is where many otherwise-strong applications fall apart, because it reads as a Mad Libs of the school's website rather than a real plan.
Frequently asked
What SAT score do I need for Amherst College?
Amherst College's middle 50% SAT range is 1490 to 1580. A score in or above that band keeps you in the conversation; below it, the rest of your application has to do more work.
What ACT score do I need for Amherst College?
Middle 50% ACT range is 33 to 35. The top of that range or above is what most admitted students submit when they choose to send a score.
What is the acceptance rate at Amherst College?
Amherst College admits roughly 9% of applicants. That makes it a reach for nearly everyone, regardless of stats.
What does Amherst College actually cost after financial aid?
Average net cost (after institutional aid) is about $23,367 per year. Net cost varies enormously by family income; run the school's net price calculator for an estimate that reflects your situation.
Is Amherst College a reach, match, or safety for me?
Compare your stats to the middle 50% above. If you are at or below the 25th percentile, treat Amherst College as a reach. If you are in the middle 50%, it is a match. Above the 75th percentile and the school accepts above 25% overall, it is closer to a safety. Selectivity below 20% should be treated as a reach for everyone, period.
