Saint Louis University campus
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Saint Louis University

Saint Louis, MO · Private · 7,267 students

A vibrant campus with over 250 student organizations and athletic clubs.

Acceptance rate

75.0%

SAT (mid 50%)

1200–1410

Avg net price

$24,398

after aid

Next deadline

Dec 1

EA

Testing

Optional

2026 cycle

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the Saint Louis University admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

Saint Louis University admitted 75.0% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That means most students who apply get in. Your job is to meet the requirements and apply on time.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1200–1410 on the SAT and 25–31 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what Saint Louis University actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Mission-Focused, Research-Driven Learning

With nearly 100 undergraduate, 140 graduate programs and many more minors, concentrations and certificates, Saint Louis University offers a truly personalized experience.

Students can choose from nearly 100 undergraduate programs, 140 graduate programs, and various minors, concentrations, and certificates for a personalized experience.

  • Undergraduate EducationNearly 100 programs
  • Graduate Education140 programs
  • University LibrariesExperienced librarians, comprehensive databases

Verified from slu.edu and slu.edu and slu.edu and slu.edu and slu.edu and slu.edu.

Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • Next deadlineDecember 1, 2026 (EA)
  • TestingOptional (2026 cycle)
  • Recommendations0 letters
  • Personal essayRequired
  • ApplicationCommon App

Verified from slu.edu.

The essays

Here are the supplemental essay prompts.

The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.

  • Although I am _____, I am not _____.

    Up to 500 words

  • What does it mean to you to be a leader? Give a detailed example of how you have positively influenced others through leadership, and explain how you would continue the University's mission as a student.

    Up to 500 words

  • Please describe one experience or project where you worked with and through social injustices, and what did you learn about working in diverse settings from this experience and/or project? How do you see yourself being an agent of change on SLU's campus?

    Up to 500 words

  • What does a Catholic education mean to you?

    Up to 500 words

  • Reflect on how your background and career goals align with values-based business education at a Jesuit institution, addressing growth as both a professional and person of impact.

  • How does your background and career goals align with values-based business education at a Jesuit institution?

  • What is your perspective on completing college in three years versus following the traditional four-year timeline?

  • Describe a Grand Challenge and how you would contribute to solving it through engineering.

    Up to 250 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from slu.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $71,932. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $24,398.

We offer a wealth of scholarships and financial aid programs recognizing academic achievement, ambition and personal potential.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $70,783.

Verified from slu.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing11% of degrees
  • Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness6% of degrees
  • Biology, General5% of degrees
  • Psychology, General5% of degrees
  • Finance and Financial Management Services5% of degrees
  • Neurobiology and Neurosciences3% of degrees

Campus life

Here’s the feel of the place.

“Engage in groundbreaking research, join one of 250 student organizations, or get active in intramurals, a Tuesday here is full of possibilities.”

Students find their niche among diverse groups and cheer on the Billikens at Chaifetz Arena.

Quick answers

What do people ask about Saint Louis University?

Is Saint Louis University test-optional?
For the 2026 application cycle, standardized testing at Saint Louis University is optional.
How hard is it to get into Saint Louis University?
Very hard. Saint Louis University admits 75.0% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1200 to 1410 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
When is the Saint Louis University application deadline?
The next deadline is December 1, 2026 (EA).
How much does Saint Louis University cost?
The list price is about $71,932. After aid, families pay $24,398 on average.
Is Saint Louis University worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $70,783 ten years after enrolling. 80% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.

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Ask Spike anything about Saint Louis University.

Spike answers from Saint Louis University’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.