This Missouri University is One of the Toughest Schools To Get Into

One of the biggest decisions you'll make in high school is choosing where to attend college. For me, it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, but it wasn’t an easy one. Finding a school you love is one thing; getting accepted is a whole different challenge.

Missouri University is One of the Toughest Schools To Get Into

ACT and SAT scores are the backbone of determining which college a high school student will attend. Extracurricular activities and grades also play a role, but there’s one school in Missouri where, if you’re accepted, you become part of a very small percentage of students who get into this prestigious university.

Washington University in St. Louis

Not only is it the toughest school to get into in Missouri, according to 24/7 Wall St., but it’s also one of the most expensive. Washington University in St. Louis (Wash U) has an acceptance rate of just 11.8%. The median SAT scores are 750 in reading and writing, and 780 in math.

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About 44% of students receive some form of financial aid, and the school boasts an impressive 93% graduation rate. The average annual cost to attend Wash U is around $27,500.

Read More: 12 Best Colleges in Missouri for 2025 Includes Big Surprises 

So, to all the incoming seniors graduating in 2026 who are starting to search for their home for the next four (or five) years, keep this in mind. If a school is considered the toughest to get into, just imagine what it would feel like if you actually got accepted.

It’s a huge accomplishment. Graduating from an elite school like Wash U is a distinguished achievement—but make no mistake, it won’t be easy.