About

About Worcester Polytechnic Institute

engineering focusedproject based learningdoctoral research universitystem specializedco-op programs

Worcester Polytechnic Institute is a private research university in Worcester, MA, known for its engineering focused, project based learning, and doctoral research university. With an acceptance rate of 57%, WPI is moderately selective, typically enrolling around 1,354 students each year. WPI is test optional; submitting a strong score can strengthen an application, though it is not required for consideration. WPI offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $29,742 per year; the sticker price of $74,071 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Worcester Polytechnic Institute acceptance rate and admitted student profile

moderately selective

57%
Overall Accept Rate
4.00
Typical Admitted GPA
ED advantage at Worcester Polytechnic Institute: ED acceptance rate is 76% vs 57% regular decision, more than double. If Worcester Polytechnic Instituteis your first choice and you've confirmed the financial fit, Early Decision is one of the highest-leverage decisions you can make.

Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Worcester Polytechnic Institute

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

Essay Strategy
WPI runs on its signature project-based learning model, including required IQP and MQP projects, so your essays should explain how you specifically want to use that hands-on structure, not just that you like learning by doing.
Extracurriculars
WPI admissions looks closely at whether you have pursued STEM or technical interests with real depth outside of class, so highlight research, competitions like FIRST Robotics or Science Olympiad, or independent projects that show sustained technical engagement.

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Financial Aid & Cost

What Worcester Polytechnic Institute actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceEst. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$74k/yr$24.0k
30k-48k~$74k/yr$24.5k
48k-75k~$74k/yr$32.4k
75k-110k~$74k/yr$37.8k
110k+~$74k/yr$49.7k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

88%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$85k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
13:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
6,378
Undergrad Enrollment
WPI Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch