Last Updated: Sunday May 17, 2026  ·  Source: IPEDS & College Scorecard Nov 2025
University of Richmond (UR) — Acceptance Rate and Admission Requirements
Non-Profit Private Accredited · Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges University of Richmond, Virginia 23.3% Acceptance Rate

University of Richmond (UR) Acceptance Rate, GPA, and Admission Requirements

📍 University of Richmond, Virginia 23173 🏛️ Main Campus 🌐 https://www.richmond.edu/

University of Richmond — Admission Snapshot 2026

A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application

23.3%Acceptance Rate
3.71Avg GPA
1474Avg SAT
33Avg ACT
$77,290Annual Cost
$76,178Grad Salary
17.6%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
23.3%
Avg GPA
3.71
Avg SAT
1474
Avg ACT
33
Selectivity
Highly Competitive
Institution Type
Non-Profit Private
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
SAT Middle 50%
1410–1530
ACT Middle 50%
32–34
Need-Based Aid
17.6% receive Pell

The University of Richmond, founded in 1830, is a prestigious private liberal arts university in Virginia known for its beautiful campus and strong undergraduate focus. Richmond's distinctive coordinate college system maintains separate deans for men (Richmond College) and women (Westhampton College) while offering coeducational academics. The university excels in business, leadership studies, and the arts, with state-of-the-art facilities like the Queally Center for Admissions and Career Services.

Richmond's 350-acre campus features a lake, historic architecture, and modern academic buildings. The university's Jepson School of Leadership Studies was the first of its kind in the nation. Richmond's NCAA Division I athletics and 200+ student organizations create a vibrant campus life. Alumni include governors, CEOs, and leaders in diverse fields who credit Richmond with developing their critical thinking and communication skills.

University of Richmond Acceptance Rate

University of Richmond is one of the renowned universities in the USA. It is very competitive to get admission to. The acceptance rate of University of Richmond is 23.3%. This means that only 23 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.

Selectivity at a Glance

Highly Competitive
University of Richmond Selectivity Meter
Selectivity scale: Highly Competitive — 23.3% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)

While academics are a primary focus, UR 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.

Recommended Academic Profile

Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.71 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.51 – 3.70
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 3.26
Secondary Reach
Requires Contextual Support

Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.

UR GPA Requirement

The average GPA of the admitted students at UR is 3.71. UR is highly selective.

Mostly A's with a few B's will keep you competitive. Taking AP/IB courses related to your field will improve your chances.

Note: This is an unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with AP or IB courses will typically have a weighted GPA of 3.91-4.11 for this same academic profile.

If your GPA is between 3.41 and 3.71, a strong SAT or ACT score is recommended.

UR 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 UR utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.71, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.

Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.71 – 4.00
Competitive Reach
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.51 – 3.70
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
3.31 – 3.50
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 3.30
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors

Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics

  • The Rigor Metric: At UR, 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.

Check Your Admission Chances at UR

Admission Chance Predictor

Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on University of Richmond's verified institutional data

--%
Calculating Profile...

Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.

Your SAT Score 1200
Your Unweighted GPA 3.00

✅ Verified Data: Institutional records for 2026.

Calculated via College Portal's Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards. Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.

University of Richmond (UR) Test Requirements

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 2026 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.

Can I Get Into UR Without SAT or ACT?

University of Richmond considers admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process but does not require them. Although it is not strictly a requirement, the test scores are considered for admission decisions. Hence, it is advisable to prepare well for the test and submit the best scores. Normally, students may appear in the test 2 to 3 times to improve their scores.

University of Richmond Average SAT Score: 1474

The average SAT score of the admitted students at University of Richmond is 1474 on the 1600 SAT scale.

SAT Competitiveness

University of Richmond SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1474 — Very Competitive

This score makes it very Competitive for SAT test scores. You need to do very well to score 1474 on the SAT.

SAT Math
750
SAT Reading
720
Composite
1474
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1530 SAT or 34 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. University of Richmond allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.

If your score is below 1410, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at UR. Retaking the test multiple times is completely normal — most competitive applicants take the SAT two or three times to achieve their best score. There is no official limit on attempts.

SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections

SAT score percentiles for University of Richmond
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
SAT Math750720780
SAT Reading720690750
SAT Composite147414101530

It means that if you have scored less than 1410 then you are below most of the admitted students at UR and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1530 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 1450

Can I get into University of Richmond (UR) with a 1550 SAT?

With a 1550 SAT Score, your chances of admission at University of Richmond (UR) are good but the admission staff at UR 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.

University of Richmond (UR) ACT Requirements

The average ACT Score at UR is 33.

ACT Competitiveness

University of Richmond ACT Competitiveness
ACT 33 — Very Competitive

This score makes University of Richmond very Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do very well to score 33 on the ACT.

ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections

ACT score percentiles for University of Richmond
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
ACT Math333234
ACT Composite333234

Can I get into University of Richmond with a 34 ACT?

A 34 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at University of Richmond — meaning you score higher than 75% of students who were accepted. This is a strong position, but the ACT is just one dimension of your application. Admissions officers at University of Richmond use the ACT as a benchmark to validate your academic readiness, not as a standalone admission ticket.

Unlike the SAT, the ACT measures four distinct subject areas — English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science — each scored on a 1–36 scale. If one of your section scores is significantly lower than the others, admissions staff will notice the imbalance. For example, a weak ACT Science score at a STEM-focused institution carries more weight than the same weakness at a liberal arts college. It is worth reviewing your section-level scores and addressing any outliers before applying.

One important advantage the ACT has over the SAT is that University of Richmond — like most US universities — accepts Superscoring for the ACT, meaning they take your highest section scores across multiple test attempts and combine them into a new composite. If you have taken the ACT more than once, confirm whether University of Richmond uses Superscoring, as this could meaningfully improve your effective composite beyond what any single sitting shows.

Beyond your score, what ultimately determines admission at this level is the strength of your overall profile. Your unweighted GPA, course rigor (AP, IB, or dual enrollment), extracurricular depth, letters of recommendation, and personal essays all carry significant weight. A 34 ACT gets your application through the first filter — but your essays and activities are what move it forward from there.

View a list of all colleges with an average ACT score of 33

Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for UR

Selective Strategy: Competitive Positioning

At UR, 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.

Target the 75th Percentile

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.

Demonstrated Interest

Unlike the Ivies, mid-tier schools track engagement. Open their emails, attend virtual tours, and mention specific campus programs to improve your 'Yield' profile.

The 'Breadth' Factor

Mid-tier institutions value students who contribute to campus life through a balance of sports, music, volunteering, and core academic strength.

Humanize the Transcript

Use your personal statement to prove you will be a 'good roommate' and active community member. Focus on resilience, empathy, and career goals.

Scholarship Tip: Applying Early Action (EA) at this level often increases your priority for institutional grants and honors college consideration.

UR Profile

Full Name
University of Richmond (UR)
City
University of Richmond
State
Virginia
ZIP Code
23173
Type
Non-Profit Private
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)

Is a UR Degree Worth It?

Getting into UR 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. UR 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 UR is $83,700 and the graduate unemployment rate is 2.54%.

How much does a degree from UR Cost?

The average annual cost of the degree at University of Richmond is $77,290. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at University of Richmond is much less than this.

17.6% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 33.4 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to UR and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.

At University of Richmond, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist UR as your choice in the form.

How much does a UR Graduate earn?

The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $76,178. An average UR 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 $40,595.

$77,290Annual Cost
17.6%Pell Grant
33.4%Federal Loan
$76,178Grad Salary (10yr)

Compare Similar Colleges

Less Competitive

Less Competitive Schools

These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than University of Richmond. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.

SchoolLocationSATACT
Occidental College Los Angeles, CA 1461 33
Colorado College Colorado Springs, CO 1445 33
George Washington University Washington, DC 1433 33
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus Atlanta, GA 1447 31
Tulane University of Louisiana New Orleans, LA 1443 32
Bates College Lewiston, ME 1446 32
University of Maryland-College Park College Park, MD 1463 34
Babson College Wellesley, MA 1435 32
Hillsdale College Hillsdale, MI 1433 32
Macalester College Saint Paul, MN 1424 32
Same Competitive

Equally Competitive Schools

These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as University of Richmond. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.

SchoolLocationSATACT
Northeastern University Oakland Oakland, CA 1472 32
Scripps College Claremont, CA 1480 33
Boston University Boston, MA 1473 33
Brandeis University Waltham, MA 1473 33
Smith College Northampton, MA 1480 33
More Competitive

More Competitive Schools

These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than University of Richmond. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

SchoolLocationSATACT
Claremont McKenna College Claremont, CA 1514 34
Harvey Mudd College Claremont, CA 1537 35
Pomona College Claremont, CA 1520 34
Wesleyan University Middletown, CT 1513 34
Yale University New Haven, CT 1534 34

Degree Programs at UR

Bachelor Degree Programs

Full list of all degree programs offered by University of Richmond →

Frequently Asked Questions About UR Admissions

Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $76,178 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.

The tuition fee at this university is quite high, approximately $77,290 or more per year, so it is important to consider additional funding options.

17.6% of students receive a Pell Grant here, which is below the national average of around 35%. This institution serves a higher proportion of higher-income students. Merit-based scholarships may still be available regardless of financial need — check the official financial aid page of the institute for details.

The acceptance rate of University of Richmond is 23.3% which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.

The average GPA of admitted students is 3.71. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.

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 3.41, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.41, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.

If your GPA is 3.31 or less, it may make 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.

While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.71, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.

Admission to University of Richmond is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1474 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1410–1530.

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.

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.

Last Updated: Sunday May 17, 2026

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Sohaib Ahmad Khan

Sohaib Ahmad Khan is a leading career counselor and admission guidance expert who has guided over 50,000 students worldwide. He is the author of four books and developer of widely used career counseling and aptitude assessment systems. .

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