Amherst College

Amherst College is a private liberal arts college in Amherst, MA, known for its liberal arts college, highly selective admissions, and open curriculum. With an acceptance rate of 7%, Amherst is one of the most selective colleges in the United States, typically enrolling around 467 students each year. Amherst is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 1470–1540, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. Students who apply Early Decision are admitted at 22%, more than double the regular decision rate of 7%, making Early Decision one of the most significant strategic levers available to applicants. Amherst meets 100% of demonstrated financial need and has replaced loans with grants; for families earning under $67,500, the net cost is often $0.