Tufts Acceptance Rate | Learn.org

Tufts University (Tufts) is a private research university based in Medford and Somerville, MA. It also has locations in Boston and Grafton, and it offers bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.

The university is high ranking and as a result, has an acceptance rate of only 10%. Below, we'll break down what you need to know about acceptance and admissions at Tufts University.

What Is the Acceptance Rate at Tufts University?

The acceptance rate at Tufts University is 10%. While this isn't as low as, say, Harvard, it's much lower than the average acceptance rate of just under 70%.

Enrollment at Tufts University is just shy of 13,500 students, with a pretty even split between undergraduate students and graduate students. Most students study full-time on campus. Only 21% of students are in-state students; 65% are out-of-state and 14% are international students.

Tufts University Admissions Requirements

The admissions requirements for Tufts University depend on whether you're an undergraduate or graduate student. There's also a slight variation between the requirements for first-time freshmen and transfer students.

Admissions requirements for first-year students include:

• a high school diploma
• high school transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• $75 application fee

Students in certain fine arts programs will also need to submit a visual art portfolio.

Tufts University is test-optional, meaning that while you can submit your ACT/SAT scores, they are not required. There is no minimum GPA.

Requirements for transfer students include:

• high school transcripts
• college transcripts
• Transfer College Report
• an academic evaluation from a college-level instructor

Graduate students will need at least a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Other requirements vary by program but often include work experience, letters of recommendation, and personal essays.

How To Apply at Tufts University

The application process at Tufts University depends on what type of student you are. There are differences between applying as an undergraduate student and applying as a graduate student. We've broken down the steps below.

Step 1: Check Application Deadlines and Program Requirements

The first thing you'll want to do is check when your application is due. There are different deadlines for different types of students.

For first-time students, there are three application deadlines: two early decision deadlines and one regular deadline. There are also additional deadlines for specific items.

The first early decision deadline is November 1, and the second is January 4. The regular decision deadline is also January 4. Items like grades and letters of recommendation are due within a few weeks of your application.

Applications for transfer students are due March 18. The application deadline for graduate students varies based on the program.

You'll also want to check the admissions requirements for your specific program. Most undergraduate programs don't have additional requirements except for fine arts programs, but the requirements for graduate programs can vary wildly.

Step 2: Submit Your Application

First-year undergraduate students have three choices for submitting their college application: through the Common Application, the Coalition Application, or the QuestBridge Application. Transfer students must use the common app, and graduate students must use the Tufts application system.

Undergraduate students will need to include the following in their application:

• senior grades
• high school transcripts
• college transcripts, if applicable
• letters of recommendation
• extracurricular activity information
• application fee

Again, ACT scores and SAT scores are not required, but you have the option to submit them if you think they'll be helpful.

Step 3: Wait for an Admissions Decision

Once you've submitted your application and all required materials, all you can do is wait. It can take several weeks to hear back about your admissions status.

Students who applied to the first early decision deadline should hear back by mid-December, and those who applied at the second early decision deadline should hear back by early February. Students who apply for regular admission will be notified by April 1.

Transfer applicants should hear back about their admissions status by the middle of May. Graduate notifications will depend on the program.

Tips for Applying to Tufts University

Admission to Tufts University is competitive. One thing you can do to help boost your odds of acceptance is to require an alumni interview.

These are relaxed interviews with an alumni of Tufts University. They are not a requirement, but give the admissions office a better opportunity to know you. This can be a great option for many students, especially if you struggle with your grades.

FAQs About Getting into Tufts University

Below, we've answered some frequently asked questions about getting into Tufts University.

What Is the Cost of Tuition at Tufts University?

The cost of tuition at Tufts University is $66,358 per year for undergraduate students. This does not include housing, meal plans, and miscellaneous costs. There is no out-of-state tuition, as Tufts is a private university. Financial aid is available.

What Is the Graduation Rate at Tufts University?

The graduation rate at Tufts University is 94%. Graduation rate is a metric that looks at how many first-time, full-time students graduate with their bachelor's degree within six years.

How Do I Apply for Financial Aid at Tufts University?

The first thing to do when looking for financial aid, regardless of where you want to go to school, is to fill out your Free Application for Student Aid (FAFSA). Types of financial aid include:

• scholarships
• federal grants
• student loans
• work-study positions

Tufts University also offers institutional financial aid to students. To apply, you'll need to have completed your FAFSA as well as the CSS profile.