Amherst College Admission Chances
Quick answer
Amherst College in Amherst, MA admits about 9% of applicants (admitted students score 1490–1580 on the SAT, middle 50%), making it a highly selective reach for nearly every applicant for most students. Your real odds depend on your GPA, test scores, and intended major — estimate them free in about 15 seconds below.
Key facts
- Acceptance rate
- 9%
- SAT (mid-50%)
- 1490–1580
- Test policy
- Test-optional
- In-state tuition
- $70,480
- Out-of-state tuition
- $70,480
- Avg. net price
- $23,367
- Undergrads
- 1,911
- Setting
- Urban
- Location
- Amherst, MA
Is Amherst College a reach for you?
Estimated admission chance by applicant profile, from the same engine FalconPrep uses to build your list. Estimates — your real odds depend on your full profile, major, and residency.
| Applicant | SAT / GPA | Verdict | Est. chance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below average | 1150 / 3.3 | Reach | 0% |
| Average | 1300 / 3.6 | Reach | 0% |
| Above average | 1400 / 3.8 | Reach | 2% |
| Strong | 1520 / 3.9 | Reach | 6% |
Should you apply to Amherst College?
- →If your SAT is above 1580 and your GPA is strong (roughly 3.9+), Amherst College is a realistic target — apply, and consider an early round if it's your clear first choice.
- →If your SAT falls within its 1490–1580 middle 50%, treat Amherst College as a reach worth taking — balance it with solid target and safety schools.
- →If your SAT is below 1490, Amherst College is a long-shot reach: apply only if it's a genuine fit, and lead your list with stronger matches.
Weighing fit? Compare Amherst College with New York University, Cornell University, United States Naval Academy.
Calculate your real chances at Amherst College
Enter your GPA and scores — get your estimated admission chance plus a full reach / target / safety list. Free, no account.
Calculate my chances →Or use the free college acceptance calculator for a quick single-school estimate.
Early admission at Amherst College
Amherst College offers these early-application options. Applying early can boost your odds — confirm exact deadlines on Amherst College's admissions site.
| Early Decision | Binding — you must enroll if admitted. Historically the biggest admit-rate boost; use it on your true first choice. |
Amherst College admissions FAQ
Can I get into Amherst College?
Amherst College is highly selective — it admits about 9% of applicants — so it's a reach even for strong students. Excellent grades, scores, and a standout application matter most. Admitted students typically score 1490–1580 on the SAT (middle 50%). Calculate your specific odds with the free chances calculator below.
What are my chances of getting into Amherst College?
Your chances of getting into Amherst College depend on your GPA, test scores, intended major, and residency. The table above estimates admission chances by applicant profile, and the free calculator gives you a personalized reach / target / safety read in about 15 seconds — no account needed.
Should I apply to Amherst College?
Apply to Amherst College if your SAT is at or above its 1490–1580 middle-50% range and your GPA is strong — it's a realistic target then. If you're below that range it's a reach: apply only if it's a genuine fit, and balance it with target and safety schools. Estimate your exact odds with the free calculator below.
Is Amherst College a reach school?
Yes — with a roughly 9% acceptance rate, Amherst College is a reach for most applicants.
What SAT score do you need for Amherst College?
Admitted students at Amherst College typically score between 1490 and 1580 on the SAT (the middle 50%). A score above 1580 strengthens your odds.
What is Amherst College's acceptance rate?
Amherst College accepts approximately 9% of applicants.
Does Amherst College offer Early Decision or Early Action?
Amherst College offers Early Decision. Early Decision is binding — apply only if it is your clear first choice, as it historically gives the biggest admission boost. Always confirm deadlines on Amherst College's admissions site.
Figures are drawn from public data (U.S. Department of Education / IPEDS and college admissions data) and reviewed regularly. Always confirm current numbers and deadlines on Amherst College's official admissions site.