
University of Rochester
Community, Connection, Discovery on the River Campus
Acceptance rate
40.1%
SAT (mid 50%)
1410–1540
Avg net price
$29,278
after aid
Testing
Optional
2027 cycle
Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the University of Rochester admissions site.
Your chances
How hard is it to get in?
University of Rochester admitted 40.1% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That’s selective. Fewer than half of the students who apply get in.
Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1410–1540 on the SAT and 31–34 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 University of Rochester actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.
What they value
Wonder Fuels Discovery, Choice Shapes Learning
URochester students design their own learning journey, following their interests wherever they lead, with the freedom to explore what excites them and turn learning into action.
The unique undergraduate curriculum features only one required course, allowing students to design their own learning journey and study what they love without compromise.
- Academic DivisionsArts & Sciences, Engineering, Music, Medicine & Dentistry, Nursing, Business, Ed
- 200+ Areas of StudyActuarial Studies, Anthropology, Applied Mathematics, Business, Chemistry, Digit
Verified from rochester.edu and rochester.edu and rochester.edu and rochester.edu and rochester.edu and rochester.edu and rochester.edu and rochester.edu.
Applying
Here’s what to send, and when.
- TestingOptional (2027 cycle)
Verified from https://www.rochester.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.
The University of Rochester is a place where curiosity and creativity meet. How will you combine our academic flexibility and co-curricular opportunities to create an experience that reflects your interests and ambitions?
Up to 250 words
What relevant experiences or insight have led to your interest in this particular program? Describe how Rochester's resources: facilities, faculty, peers and research will meet your academic and personal ambitions. Describe how you see yourself contributing to the challenging field you want to enter as a Rochester graduate.
Up to 250 words
Every prompt, with how to approach each →
Verified from https://www.rochester.edu.
Cost and aid
What will you actually pay?
The sticker price is about $85,962. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $29,278.
The University of Rochester is committed to helping students meet their financial needs through a variety of financial aid options, adhering to the Principles & Standards of the College Cost Transparency Initiative.
Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $79,042.
Verified from https://www.rochester.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.
Academics
These are the most popular majors.
- Biology, General11% of degrees
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing10% of degrees
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods10% of degrees
- Research and Experimental Psychology8% of degrees
- Computer Science7% of degrees
- Music7% of degrees
Campus life
Here’s the feel of the place.
“Join a club, hang out with friends on the Quad, or perform at a city festival, a Tuesday here feels like yours.”
Historic architecture and sprawling quads offer beautiful greenery and access to the Genesee River on the 154-acre River Campus.
Quick answers
What do people ask about University of Rochester?
- Is University of Rochester test-optional?
- For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at University of Rochester is optional.
- How hard is it to get into University of Rochester?
- Very hard. University of Rochester admits 40.1% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1410 to 1540 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
- How much does University of Rochester cost?
- The list price is about $85,962. After aid, families pay $29,278 on average.
- Is University of Rochester worth it?
- Graduates earn a median of $79,042 ten years after enrolling. 85% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.
Launching soon
Ask Spike anything about University of Rochester.
Spike answers from University of Rochester’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.