How Hard Is It to Get Into Yale University?
How hard is it to get into Yale University? As one of the most prestigious universities in American, this is a common question for high-achieving, college-bound students. Below we share some insight about Yale's admissions requirements and how students can better position themselves to get accepted to Yale.
Yale University was founded in 1701, and is widely regarded as one of the top institutions of higher education in America today. With notable alumni like former Presidents George W. Bush and George H. W. Bush, Oscar-winning actress Meryl Streep, and former Secretaries of State Hillary Clinton and John Kerry, Yale is a highly distinguished and respected university.
For these reasons, and many more, a lot of students consider Yale to be their dream school, with 36,829 students applying for a spot in Yale’s class of 2023. The school’s average acceptance rate is a competitive 6.3%, meaning Yale-hopefuls have to make an impressive case to the admissions office for a chance to attend. So, how hard is it to gain acceptance to Yale? Read on for some tips on how to set yourself and your Yale application up for success.
Know the Average Admission Requirements
Yale University looks for students who scored between
- 720-770 on SAT- Evidence-Based Reading and Writing
- 740-790 on SAT-Math
- 33-35 on ACT Composite
The Yale College Class of 2023 First-Year Class Profile statistics demonstrate an impressive batch of talent. Of the 1,554 students in the class, the majority scored a 32-36 on the ACT, 760-800 on SAT-Math, and 760-800 on SAT-Reading and Writing. Moreover, 92% of the students ranked in the Top 10% of their respective high school class.
If your scores align with the averages from the Class of 2023 profile, that is a good indication your application would be a competitive one.
For those who are still underclassmen but who seek to one day attend Yale University, it is a good idea to stay up to date on the standardized test score averages for each new class, as you will need to study and prepare to reach those scores yourself when the time comes.
Show Yale What You Bring to the Table
Admissions officers see tens of thousands of applications each year, many of which look similar to one another. It is up to you to stand out and catch their attention. You are more than just your test scores or GPA, and your essays and recommendation letters should reflect this fact. Utilize your essays to speak about how you will be a positive addition to the student body and larger Yale community. Let your personality shine through to increase your chances of getting into Yale, and express why this school in particular is a great fit. Yale seeks individuals who will add to the school community, and who will use available opportunities to do good.
If you are not quite ready to apply to colleges, but plan to do so in the future, be mindful of the kind of student Yale admits each cycle, and make an effort to build your resume accordingly.
For more information or tips on how to position yourself and your Yale application for success, check out even more tips and advice by reading College Admission: How to Get Into Your Dream School, a how-to-guide for college-bound students and their families. You can hear from fellow NSHSS members about their experiences applying to colleges, and learn what worked for them. Best of luck with your college application process!