This college guide uses the most recent data available provided by the U.S. Department of Education. This information was last updated on April 25th, 2023.
Willamette University Admission Requirements Guide
Whether you’re just starting to consider Willamette University as an option or are well into the application process, this guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the Willamette University undergraduate admission requirements. After reading this guide, you will understand what needs to be done to maximize your chances of being admitted to this institution’s undergraduate program.
Willamette University Acceptance Rate
The Willamette University admission rate was 79.62% for the most recent class. While this college isn’t as hard to get into as the ivy league schools, substantial effort is still required for your application. If you ensure all of your required application materials are submitted to 79.62%, then you should have a decent chance of being accepted. (given that your academic profile measures up to the average metrics we are about to cover)
Willamette University GPA Requirements
Every high school has its own method of constructing students’ grade point averages (GPA). Some secondary schools use a weighted GPA system, where they take into account the rigor of honors courses and weigh them more heavily, and others use an unweighted GPA system, in which letter grades all carry the same weight regardless of the course’s difficulty.
To level the playing field, schools often compare applicants through their unweighted GPA and consider the number of honors and advanced courses separately. This is how Willamette University typically conducts its college application review process.
Willamette University Average GPA
When looking at undergraduate students who were most recently admitted, the Willamette University average GPA is 3.7. Although there are no GPA requirements for admission, it is strongly recommended that prospective students aim for at least a 3.7 to give themselves an adequate chance of being accepted into Willamette University.
Here is the range of Willamette University SAT scores segmented by the three sections of the test: Critical Reading, Math, and Writing.
SAT Scores of Undergraduate Students Recently Admitted to Willamette University: | |||
| 25th Percentile | Median | 75th Percentile | |
| Critical Reading | |||
| Math | |||
| Writing | 550 | 600 | 650 |
Willamette University's SAT Score Choice Policy
Willamette University does accept the SAT ‘Superscore’ policy. This means that applicants who have taken the SAT several times may submit their best scores for each section, rather than submitting every full report. For example, if you received a higher score on your Reading section during your first test, but received a higher score on the Mathematics section on your second test, you may combine these scores for a comprehensive ‘Superscore’.
Willamette University's ACT Score Choice Policy
Willamette University allows individuals to submit their ACT ‘Superscore’. This means that they are able to select and combine their best subject scores across multiple tests.
Willamette University Application Requirements
Willamette University has a solid undergraduate program. Willamette University’s admissions team extends offers to many students, although it’s not a cakewalk to achieve admission. The college’s application requirements need to be completed in a timely manner; here’s what you need to know.
Does Willamette University Use the Common App?
Like most major U.S. schools, Willamette University does use the Common Application for their admissions process. The Common App is a unified application that prospective students use to apply to undergraduate colleges and universities. It allows applicants to use a single application that can be sent to as many colleges as they apply to, instead of repeatedly inputting the same demographic and academic information per school. Willamette University may request additional materials, such as supplemental essays and questions, but the primary application structure remains the same.
Does Willamette University Require Letters of Recommendation?
Willamette University does not require a letter of recommendation from a teacher. Even though it’s not required, you are allowed to submit a teacher recommendation letter as supplemental material in your application. It is highly recommended that you do so, especially if you have a strong relationship with a teacher who is willing to attest to your academic and interpersonal skills.
A recommendation letter from a school counselor or guidance counselor is required to apply to Willamette University. High school counselors are constantly writing letters of recommendation for students, so asking them to create one for you is a fairly straightforward process. Ensure that they are at least somewhat familiar with your character and goals, as the purpose of this letter is to show Willamette University that you are a comprehensively complete applicant.
Willamette University Application Checklist
See our application checklist for Willamette University below to ensure you complete and submit the proper materials.
Required Application Materials:
- Completed Common App
- Standardized Test Scores, such as the SAT or ACT
- 1 Letter of Recommendation from a School Counselor
- Personal Statement (College Essay)
- Willamette University Application Fee or Fee Waiver
- Academic Transcripts (at the time of submission and when senior year first semester grades are released)
Optional Application Materials:
- Additional Recommendation Letters (Teacher Evaluations)
Willamette University Facts & Frequently Asked Questions
Is Willamette University Public or Private?
Willamette University is a private, non-profit university. Private universities’ primary sources of funding are through tuition, donations, and endowments. Although tuition may be higher at these nonprofit institutions, generous financial aid packages are more common than public schools. Tuition rates do not differ between in-state and out-of-state students.
How Many Students Does Willamette University Have?
Willamette University is known for having a smaller student body. Our latest data indicates there are 1186 undergraduate degree-seeking students enrolled. With a fewer students in each classroom, individuals are able to engage more with their classmates and professors. Office hours are accessible, and opportunities for networking and relationship-building are vast at Willamette University.
How do I apply to Willamette University?
Make sure you have all of the required application materials we covered on hand. You can learn more about the application process for this particular institution at Willamette University’s Website.
Where is Willamette University?
Willamette University is located in Salem, OR. To visualize where Willamette University’s campus is based in relation to Salem’s downtown area and landmarks, take a look at the interactive map below.
Willamette University Campus Map
Final Thoughts on Applying to Willamette University
Hopefully this guide helped you to learn more about the admissions requirements for Willamette University. When applying to colleges, remember to keep in mind that not every school will be a good fit. Take the time to evaluate what’s most important to you, such as the school’s academic opportunities, financial aid benefits, and location. All of the application components we covered are important – take your time to put your best foot forward. The College Grid team wishes you the best of luck on your college applications!
Sydney Janssen
As a valedictorian in high school, I developed a strong passion for learning and pushing myself to achieve academic success. Now, as a first-generation college graduate, I'm excited to share my experiences and insights with others who may be navigating similar paths through College Grid.