Amherst Accepts 7% of Applicants into Class of 2029
Summary
Amherst has completed its admissions cycle for the Class of 2029, reaffirming its position as one of the most selective universities in the world. Out of 15,818 applicants, Amherst admitted 1,175 students, resulting in an overall acceptance rate of 7%. Here's a detailed breakdown and insights to help prospective applicants better understand the evolving admissions landscape.
Amherst College Acceptance Rates
| Number of First-Year Applications | Accepted Students | Acceptance Rate | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class of 2029 | 15,818 | 1,175 | 7% |
| Class of 2028 | 13,700 | 1,238 | 9% |
| Class of 2027 | 12,700 | 1,143 | 9% |
| Class of 2026 | 14,684 | 1,079 | 7.3% |
| Class of 2025 | 13,948 | 1,182 | 8% |
Key Trends and Insights
- Noticeable Rise in Applicants: While the number of applicants has been increasing since Class of 2027, this year's increase is sharper, rising from 13,700 to 15,818.
- Decline in Admissions: The number of accepted students has decreased from 1,238 to 1,175, a sharper decline than most previous years. With that said, admitted students this year are close to previous years.
Broader Admissions Trends
- Lowest Acceptance Rate in Years: The acceptance rate since Class of 2025 has stayed relatively consistent between 7% and 9%. With that said, this year's acceptance rate of 7% is the lowest in at least the past 5 years.
- Academic Excellence: Maintain top grades and a high GPA.
- Strong Essays: Use your essays to showcase your unique voice and story.
- Leadership and Extracurriculars: Demonstrate meaningful engagement outside the classroom.
- Test Scores: If submitting, aim for high SAT or ACT scores within or above Amherst's reported range.
Final Thoughts
Congratulations to all students admitted to Amherst's Class of 2029 — your achievement reflects remarkable dedication and excellence. For those considering applying to Amherst in the future, the admissions landscape is increasingly competitive, making strategic preparation essential. Crimson Education specializes in helping ambitious students navigate this challenging process, offering tailored guidance to build compelling applications that reflect their authentic strengths and passions.
If you're a student or parent interested in Amherst or other top universities, speak with one of Crimson Education’s admissions advisors today and start charting your path to success.
