Washington and Lee University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
At Washington and Lee, test-optional does not mean your scores are irrelevant; reported score ranges are high, with SAT middle 50% at 1430-1540 and ACT at 33-34. Your clearest target is the upper end of that range, around a 1540 SAT or 34 ACT, so your testing adds real strength.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Washington and Lee University facts and stats
Washington and Lee University enrolls 1,886 undergraduates in a small-town campus setting. Washington and Lee has a 97% freshman retention rate, well above the national average of roughly 70%. Its 6-year graduation rate is 94%, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 8:1.
Lexington, VA
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Key Washington and Lee University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
January 1
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 Washington and Lee, take your first SAT or ACT by the spring of junior year and save the summer before senior year plus the fall for retakes that could improve your superscore. For the November 1 Early Decision deadline, plan on the October SAT or September ACT as your last retake likely to arrive in time.
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What you'll actually pay
Washington and Lee is a private not-for-profit, with tuition and fees of $68,045. About 57% of students receive aid, and the average merit award is $59,826. Submit the FAFSA by the February 15 priority deadline for financial aid consideration.
At Washington and Lee University, tuition, fees, room, and board total about $86,730 per year. Financial aid can substantially reduce that price, with 57% of students receiving aid and an average aid package of $75,159. Merit aid is also significant, with an average merit award of $59,826. For context, graduates leave with an average debt of $33,308.
Student life at Washington and Lee University
74% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: Guaranteed
Fraternities and sororities are active on campus. 72% of men join fraternities, and 72% of women join sororities.
Similar schools
Averett University
Danville, VAAcceptance rate: 56.6%
SAT: 850–1170
ACT: 15–28
Bluefield University
Bluefield, VAAcceptance rate: 59.3%
Blue Ridge Community College, Virginia
Weyers Cave, VAAcceptance rate: 47.8%
Bridgewater College
Bridgewater, VAAcceptance rate: 91.7%
SAT: 1010–1390
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