Vassar College, founded in 1861, is a highly selective liberal arts college in Poughkeepsie, New York, known for its academic rigor and beautiful campus. Originally a women's college, Vassar became coeducational in 1969 while maintaining its commitment to gender equity and inclusion. The college offers 50+ majors with particular strengths in drama, psychology, and the sciences. Vassar's 1,000-acre campus features Gothic architecture, the Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center, and an ecological preserve.
Vassar's undergraduate research opportunities are exceptional, with students regularly presenting at national conferences and publishing in scholarly journals. The college's commitment to accessibility includes a need-blind admissions policy and meets 100% of demonstrated financial need. Vassar's vibrant arts scene includes student productions at the Powerhouse Theater and the Modfest arts festival. Alumni include Pulitzer Prize winners, Oscar nominees, and leaders in diverse fields who credit Vassar with fostering intellectual curiosity and creative thinking.
Vassar College Acceptance Rate
Vassar College is a renowned institution with a very competitive admission profile. The acceptance rate of 17.73% indicates that only 18 out of every 100 applicants are admitted.
Admissions Guidelines
- Strong Academics: A consistent record of A-level performance is expected.
- Score Validation: High SAT/ACT scores can help compensate for minor GPA fluctuations.
- Engagement: Admissions staff look for sustained commitment to 2-3 key extracurricular activities.
While academics are a primary focus, Vassar College considers your entire profile. A well-crafted personal statement and strong interpersonal communication skills can significantly enhance your chances of moving forward in the selection process.
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem .
Vassar College Admission Requirements
Vassar College GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at Vassar College is 3.86. This indicates extreme selectivity in admissions.
To have strong chances, you must aim for straight A’s in all courses.
If your GPA is between 3.56 and 3.86, then you need a high SAT or ACT score to compensate.
Vassar College GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Highly selective; GPA is within the typical admitted range.
Recommended Strategy: Standardized Test Scores (SAT/ACT) in the top 5th percentile.
Admissions at Vassar College utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.86, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
| Candidate GPA Range | Admission Category | Strategic Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 3.86 – 4.00 | Competitive Reach | Maintain Rigor & High Testing |
| 3.66 – 3.85 | Competitive Match | Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation |
| 3.46 – 3.65 | Secondary Reach | Personal Statement & Impact |
| Below 3.45 | Institutional Reach | Requires Significant Contextual Factors |
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At Vassar College, a slightly lower GPA (e.g., 3.8) in a transcript featuring multiple AP or IB courses is often prioritized over a 4.0 in a standard curriculum.
- The Upward Trend: If your early high school grades were lower, an upward trajectory in 11th and 12th grade demonstrates Academic Resilience.
Data Source: Verified via IPEDS and latest Common Data Set (CDS). Reviewed by our academic board led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Calculated via College Portal’s Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards.
Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.
Vassar College SAT Requirements
Each school has different requirements for SAT and ACT testing. For the 2026 academic cycle, the landscape of standardized testing has shifted back toward Test-Required policies at the majority of highly selective and Ivy+ institutions. Following a multi-year "Test-Optional" pilot, data-driven results have led universities like Harvard, Yale, Brown, and the University of Texas at Austin to reinstate the SAT and ACT as mandatory components of the application.
In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2025 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.
Vassar College Average SAT Score: 1513
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Vassar College is 1513 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
This score makes it Extremely Competitive for SAT test scores. You need to do extremely well to score 1513 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (1550 SAT or 35 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Vassar College allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 1435, you must retake the SAT to improve your chances of admission to Vassar College. It is not strange to appear multiple times for the SAT to improve scores. Colleges don’t mind if you have appeared multiple times, but not more than 5 times.
SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 748 | 715 | 780 |
| SAT Reading | 745 | 720 | 770 |
| SAT Composite | 1513 | 1435 | 1550 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1435 then you are below most of the admitted students at Vassar College and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1550 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students. View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1500
Can I get into Vassar College with a 1550 SAT?
With a 1550 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Vassar College are good but the admission staff at Vassar College tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
Vassar College ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at Vassar College is 34.
ACT Competitiveness
This score makes Vassar College Extremely Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do extremely well to score 34 on the ACT.
ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 33 | 32 | 34 |
| ACT English | 0 | ||
| ACT Composite | 34 | 33 | 35 |
Can I get into Vassar College with a 35 ACT?
With a 35 ACT Score, your chances of admission at Vassar College are good but the admission staff does not check your ACT Score only. The College Admission process tests your all-around personality and academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission.
View a list of all colleges with an average ACT score of 34.Vassar College Profile
Name: Vassar College
City: Poughkeepsie
URL: www.vassar.edu/
State: New York
Type: Non-Profit Private
Zip: 12604
Campus: Main
Accredited by: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSACHE)
Selective Strategy: Competitive Positioning
At Vassar College, admissions officers seek reliable, high-achieving students. The goal is to be a top-tier applicant to trigger both admission and high-value merit aid.
Being 'average' is fine for admission, but being in the top 25% of the applicant pool is the primary key to securing automatic merit-based scholarships.
Unlike the Ivies, mid-tier schools track engagement. Open their emails, attend virtual tours, and mention specific campus programs to improve your 'Yield' profile.
Mid-tier institutions value students who contribute to campus life through a balance of sports, music, volunteering, and core academic strength.
Use your personal statement to prove you will be a 'good roommate' and active community member. Focus on resilience, empathy, and career goals.
Does a degree from Vassar College Worth It?
Getting into Vassar College can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. Vassar College offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision. Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at Vassar College is USD: 80899.18 and unemployment rate is 3.18%.
How much does a degree from Vassar College Cost?The average annual cost of the degree at Vassar College is USD: 83573. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Vassar College is much less than this.
How can I get a scholarship?
20.86% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 42.58 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Vassar College and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Vassar College, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist Vassar College as your choice in the form.
How much a Vassar College Graduate make?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is USD 71366. An average Vassar College graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4-6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is USD: 40595
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Vassar College. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeastern University Oakland | Northeastern University Oakland, CA | 1472 | 32 |
| Scripps College | Scripps College, CA | 1480 | 33 |
| University of Southern California | University of Southern California, CA | 1501 | 34 |
| Georgetown University | Georgetown University, DC | 1494 | 33 |
| Grinnell College | Grinnell College, IA | 1486 | 33 |
| Colby College | Colby College, ME | 1500 | 33 |
| University of Maryland-College Park | University of Maryland-College Park, MD | 1463 | 34 |
| Amherst College | Amherst College, MA | 1494 | 33 |
| Boston College | Boston College, MA | 1501 | 34 |
| Boston University | Boston University, MA | 1473 | 33 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Vassar College. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Claremont McKenna College | Claremont McKenna College, CA | 1514 | 34 |
| Pomona College | Pomona College, CA | 1520 | 34 |
| Wesleyan University | Wesleyan University, CT | 1513 | 34 |
| Emory University | Emory University, GA | 1507 | 33 |
| University of Notre Dame | University of Notre Dame, IN | 1510 | 34 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Vassar College. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Chicago | University of Chicago, IL | 1554 | 35 |
| Johns Hopkins University | Johns Hopkins University, MD | 1553 | 35 |
| Harvard University | Harvard University, MA | 1553 | 35 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Massachusetts Institute of Technology, MA | 1553 | 35 |
| Columbia University in the City of New York | Columbia University in the City of New York, NY | 1547 | 35 |
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Anthropology
- Area Studies
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Biology, General
- Chemistry
- Classical and Ancient Studies
- Cognitive Science
- Communication and Media Studies
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
Frequently Asked Questions About Vassar College Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $71366 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.
Question: What is the tuition fee?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is quite high, approximately $83573 or more per year for out-of-state students, so it is important to consider additional funding options.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship ?
Answer: Your chances of getting a scholarship are good, with about a 50-80% chance. Scholarships are competitive but achievable if you meet the criteria.
Question: What is the acceptance rate?
Answer: The acceptance rate of Vassar College is 17.73 which is low, typically between 10% and 20%. Admission is very competitive, and a strong academic profile is necessary.
Question: What is the average GPA of admitted students?
Answer: The average GPA of admitted students is 3.86. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
Question: What is the minimum GPA required for admission?
Answer: While there is no single 'cutoff' that guarantees a rejection, admission staff uses your GPA to determine if you are a best fit. If you have at least a 3.56, you're in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.56, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
Question: What are my chances with a 3.56 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 3.46 or less, it may makes admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays. But this does not mean that you must not apply, or you do not have any chances. With additional AP courses, you can increase your chances even with this GPA.
Question: Can I apply to Vassar College if my GPA is below 3.46
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.86, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Question: How competitive is the SAT score requirement
Answer: Admission to Vassar College is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1513 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1435-1550
Question: Is it possible to transfer from another university?
Answer: Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting Admissions?
Answer: To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.
Full list of All degree programs offered by Vassar College.
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in 2025, US Department of Education's latest 2025 statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.