University of Rochester SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
Rochester is test-optional, but the students who submit scores are typically bringing very strong numbers. If your SAT is near or above the 1420 to 1500 middle range, especially the upper half, submitting it can strengthen your case at a school where admission is selective but still within reach.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
University of Rochester facts and stats
University of Rochester enrolls about 6,580 undergraduates in an urban campus setting. Rochester has a 91% freshman retention rate, which is well above the national average of roughly 70%, and its 6-year graduation rate is 85%. The student-to-faculty ratio is 8.8:1, offering a snapshot of its academic scale.
Rochester, NY
How do your scores compare at Rochester?
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Key University of Rochester application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
January 5
Early Action
Not offered
Early Decision
November 1
Priority Deadline
—
Financial Aid Priority
February 15
Test dates
August 22, 2026
Registration deadline: August 7, 2026
September 12, 2026
Registration deadline: August 28, 2026
October 3, 2026
Registration deadline: September 18, 2026
September 19, 2026
Registration deadline: August 14, 2026
October 17, 2026
Registration deadline: September 11, 2026
December 12, 2026
Registration deadline: November 6, 2026
If you choose to submit scores to test-optional Rochester, plan to take your first SAT or ACT by the spring of junior year, then use the summer before senior year and the fall for retakes if needed. For the November 1 Early Decision deadline, an October retake is typically the last fall test date that can arrive in time, so earlier retakes give you more room to improve a potential superscore.
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What you'll actually pay
Rochester is a private not-for-profit, so the same rate applies to all students. Tuition and fees are $67,124, and 52% of students receive aid, with an average merit award of $17,238. Submit the FAFSA by the February 15 priority deadline.
Rochester’s estimated total cost of attendance is $86,694, including $67,124 in tuition and fees and $19,570 for room and board. About 52% of students receive aid, with an average aid package of $62,785. The average merit award is $17,238 for students who receive merit support. Graduates leave with an average debt of $32,304.
Student life at University of Rochester
71% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: Guaranteed
Fraternities and sororities are active on campus. 8% of men join fraternities, and 10% of women join sororities.
Similar schools
Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology
Flushing, NYAcceptance rate: 85%
SAT: 909–1293
ACT: 16–25
Adelphi University
Garden City, NYAcceptance rate: 65.9%
SAT: 1120–1330
ACT: 24–30
Acceptance rate: 77.5%
Acceptance rate: 100%
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