About

About Brandeis University

jewish heritage rootshigh research activitysocial sciences focusselective private universitystrong student faculty ratio

Brandeis University is a private research university in Waltham, MA, known for its jewish heritage roots, high research activity, and social sciences focus. With an acceptance rate of 39%, Brandeis University is selective, typically enrolling around 986 students each year. Brandeis University is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 1415–1510, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. Brandeis University offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $43,903 per year; the sticker price of $78,956 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Brandeis University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

selective

39%
Overall Accept Rate
3.75
Typical Admitted GPA
1463
Median Admitted SAT
GPATypical admitted range: 3.50 – 4.00 unweighted

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SATSubmitted score range: 1415 – 1510 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Brandeis University

The first 2 tips apply to all applicants. Your personalized strategy requires your profile — build your free list to unlock it.

Essay Strategy
Brandeis was founded on principles of social justice and academic freedom, so your essays should reflect genuine engagement with those values. Connect your intellectual curiosity or activism to something specific about Brandeis programs, faculty research, or campus initiatives rather than speaking in general terms.
Test Score Strategy
Brandeis is test optional and places real weight on your essays and academic record, so if your score falls below their middle range, withhold it and let your coursework and writing carry your application.

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Financial Aid & Cost

What Brandeis University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceEst. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$79k/yr$13.4k
30k-48k~$79k/yr$15.1k
48k-75k~$79k/yr$20.5k
75k-110k~$79k/yr$26.8k
110k+~$79k/yr$54.9k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

86%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$53k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
10:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
4,021
Undergrad Enrollment
Brandeis University Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch