Whitman College Whitman College, founded in 1882 in Walla Walla, Washington, is a prestigious private liberal arts college known for academic rigor and outdoor opportunities. The 117-acre campus features a mix of historic and modern facilities, including the recently completed Stanton Hall for politics and global studies. Whitman maintains a 9:1 student-faculty ratio and offers an open curriculum allowing students intellectual exploration across disciplines. The college is particularly strong in environmental studies, politics, and the sciences, with exceptional graduate school placement rates.
Whitman takes pride in its commitment to undergraduate research across all fields, with over 60% of students completing independent projects. Campus life includes NCAA Division III athletics and outdoor programs utilizing the Pacific Northwest's natural beauty. The college's location in Washington's wine country provides unique opportunities for environmental and economic studies. Recent additions include the Welty Student Health Center and renovated science facilities. Whitman's combination of academic excellence, undergraduate research opportunities, and stunning Northwest setting creates a distinctive liberal arts experience.
Whitman College Acceptance Rate
Whitman College is a well-known institution. It has a selective admission process. The acceptance rate of Whitman College is 49.99%. This means that 50 out of every 100 applicants get admitted.
Admissions Guidelines
- Selective Enrollment: Applicants need a solid GPA and proof of academic growth.
- Holistic Balance: Strong recommendations and community involvement are highly valued.
If your GPA is slightly below the institutional average, you can remain competitive by scoring well on standardized tests and showcasing leadership in co-curricular activities.
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem .
Whitman College Admission Requirements
Whitman College GPA Requirement
The average GPA of the admitted students at Whitman College is 3.68. Whitman College 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 3.88-4.08 for this same academic profile.
If your GPA is between 3.38 and 3.68, a strong SAT or ACT score is recommended.
Whitman College GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Selective; solid academic performance is expected.
Recommended Strategy: Focus on a Strong 'Spike' in extracurriculars or research.
Admissions at Whitman College utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.68, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
| Candidate GPA Range | Admission Category | Strategic Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 3.68 – 4.00 | Target/Match | Maintain Rigor & High Testing |
| 3.48 – 3.67 | Competitive Match | Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation |
| 3.28 – 3.47 | Secondary Reach | Personal Statement & Impact |
| Below 3.27 | Institutional Reach | Requires Significant Contextual Factors |
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At Whitman 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.
Whitman College 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 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.
Whitman College Average SAT Score: 1365
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Whitman College is 1365 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
This score makes it Competitive for SAT scores. You need to do well to score 1365 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (1480 SAT or 33 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Whitman 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 1270, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at Whitman College.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
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 680 | 620 | 740 |
| SAT Reading | 695 | 650 | 740 |
| SAT Composite | 1365 | 1270 | 1480 |
It means that if you have scored less than 1270 then you are below most of the admitted students at Whitman College and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1480 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 1350
Can I get into Whitman College with a 1500 SAT?
With a 1500 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Whitman College are good but the admission staff at Whitman 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.
Whitman College ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at Whitman College is 30.
ACT Competitiveness
This score makes Whitman College very Competitive for ACT scores. You need to do very well to score 30 on the ACT.
ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 29 | 25 | 32 |
| ACT English | 31 | 26 | 35 |
| ACT Composite | 30 | 27 | 33 |
Can I get into Whitman College with a 33 ACT?
A 33 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at Whitman College — 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 Whitman College 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 Whitman College — 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 Whitman College 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 33 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 30.Whitman College Profile
Name: Whitman College
City: Walla Walla
URL: www.whitman.edu/
State: Washington
Type: Non-Profit Private
Zip: 99362
Campus: Main
Accredited by: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Can I Get Into Whitman College Without SAT Or ACT?: Whitman College 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. Hence you are required to plan early and appear in upcoming SAT / ACT tests. Check the schedule of the test and plan accordingly. It is advisable to appear multiple times in the test unless you score well above the average SAT / ACT score of the admitted students, as given below.
Is a Whitman College degree Worth It?
Getting into Whitman 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. Whitman 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 Whitman College is $70,500 and unemployment rate is 3.47%.
How much does a degree from Whitman College Cost?The average annual cost of the degree at Whitman College is $75,042. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Whitman College is much less than this.
14.67% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 36.37 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Whitman College and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Whitman College, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist Whitman College as your choice in the form.
How much does a Whitman College Graduate earn?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is $67,589. An average Whitman 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 $40,595
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Whitman College. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Alabama in Huntsville | University of Alabama in Huntsville, AL | 1321 | 28 |
| Auburn University | Auburn University, AL | 1318 | 28 |
| Hendrix College | Hendrix College, AR | 1336 | 29 |
| Chapman University | Chapman University, CA | 1353 | 30 |
| University of Colorado Boulder | University of Colorado Boulder, CO | 1353 | 31 |
| University of Denver | University of Denver, CO | 1344 | 31 |
| University of Connecticut | University of Connecticut, CT | 1338 | 31 |
| Fairfield University | Fairfield University, CT | 1323 | 31 |
| Florida State University | Florida State University, FL | 1323 | 29 |
| Centre College | Centre College, KY | 1345 | 29 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Whitman College. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pepperdine University | Pepperdine University, CA | 1367 | 29 |
| Westmont College | Westmont College, CA | 1367 | 32 |
| United States Air Force Academy | United States Air Force Academy, CO | 1362 | 30 |
| Wheaton College | Wheaton College, IL | 1363 | 30 |
| Emerson College | Emerson College, MA | 1359 | 32 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Whitman College. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santa Clara University | Santa Clara University, CA | 1417 | 32 |
| Colorado College | Colorado College, CO | 1445 | 33 |
| Colorado School of Mines | Colorado School of Mines, CO | 1403 | 31 |
| Connecticut College | Connecticut College, CT | 1412 | 32 |
| Trinity College | Trinity College, CT | 1396 | 32 |
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Anthropology
- Applied Mathematics
- Area Studies
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
- Behavioral Sciences
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences
- Biology, General
- Chemistry
Frequently Asked Questions About Whitman College Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $67,589 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 $75,042 or more per year, so it is important to consider additional funding options.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship ?
Answer: 14.7% 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 institution's official financial aid page for details.
Question: What is the acceptance rate?
Answer: The acceptance rate of Whitman College is 49.99% which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
Question: What is the average GPA of admitted students?
Answer: The average GPA of admitted students is 3.68. 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 3.38, you're in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.38, 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 3.38 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 3.28 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 Whitman College if my GPA is below 3.38
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.68, 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 Whitman College is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1365 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 1270-1480
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 Whitman College.
Last Updated: Wednesday March 18, 2026
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in November 2025, US Department of Education's latest statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.