Brandeis University: Acceptance Rate and Your Chances
Updated June 2026 · CollegeCalcAI
| Acceptance rate | 30% |
| SAT (75th percentile) | 1460 |
| ACT (75th percentile) | 33 |
| Location | MA |
| School type | Private |
Brandeis University is a private research university in Waltham, Massachusetts, just outside Boston. It accepts roughly 30% of applicants, which makes it a selective school, though one with a broader admitted class than many of its New England peers. Brandeis draws students who are intellectually driven and interested in research, social justice, and creative pursuits.
Calculate your chances at Brandeis University free →How hard is it to get into Brandeis University?
A 30% acceptance rate means Brandeis turns away seven out of ten applicants. That is a real hurdle. You need more than decent grades to be competitive. Strong academic performance in challenging coursework, clear interests, and a well-crafted application all play a role.
Compared to some schools with similar reputations, 30% is a relatively accessible rate. That said, the applicant pool is competitive, and it is a mistake to treat Brandeis as an easy get. Students who get in typically show both academic strength and something distinctive about their goals or background.
Test scores that make you competitive
The 75th percentile SAT among admitted Brandeis students is 1460, and the 75th percentile ACT is 33. These are strong benchmarks. If your scores are in that range or above, they strengthen your application noticeably. Brandeis has offered test-optional admission in recent years, so if your scores fall short of those marks, focusing on other strengths may be the smarter approach.
What Brandeis University looks for
Brandeis uses a holistic admissions process that weighs academic rigor, grades, test scores if submitted, essays, recommendations, and activities together. Taking AP or IB courses and doing well in them signals college readiness. Research experience, independent projects, or deep engagement in a cause you care about can differentiate you from students with similar transcripts. The essays matter, particularly in demonstrating that you have thought carefully about what you want from a university experience.
Estimate your chances at Brandeis University
CollegeCalcAI has a free calculator at collegecalcai.com where you can enter your GPA, test scores, and extracurricular profile to get a realistic estimate of your chances at Brandeis. It is worth checking before you finalize your list.
Frequently asked questions
What is Brandeis University's acceptance rate?
Brandeis University accepts about 30% of applicants.
What SAT or ACT score do I need for Brandeis University?
The 75th percentile SAT for admitted students is 1460 and the 75th percentile ACT is 33. Scores near those levels are competitive. Brandeis is test-optional, so strong applicants without top scores are still considered.
Is Brandeis University hard to get into?
Yes. About 70% of applicants are not admitted. You need a strong academic profile and a well-developed application to have a realistic shot.
See your real odds at Brandeis University
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Sources: U.S. Department of Education (IPEDS), NCES, and publicly reported Common Data Sets. Acceptance rate and score figures are rounded and reflect recent admissions cycles. How we calculate chances.