University of Rochester
Location: Rochester, NY (urban, medium sized city)
Size: 6,780 students
Avg percent need-met: 97%
Acceptance rate: 35%
Middle 50% ACT: 29-34 **Test Optional**
Middle 50% SAT: 1330-1510 **Test Optional**
Rochester is a school of endless opportunities, including research, advanced classes, and study abroad. They have an open curriculum without general education requirements, allowing students to pursue multiple academic interests. They encourage hands-on learning, and over three-quarters of undergraduates participate in research! Classes require a LOT of work, and studying tends to preoccupy the study body, but professors are incredible and you’ll receive a quality education. With an active social scene including clubs and Greek life, for a medium-sized school, U Rochester has a big-school feel.
Popular majors / known for: Nursing, Biology, Engineering, Psychology. Biomedical Engineering and Pre Health are big
Academic approach: No gen-ed requirements (open curriculum); students are encouraged to take courses across a range of disciplines. Students take a writing class and the courses for their major, then choose from broad clusters of classes (‘politics and math,’ ‘sonic arts and technology,’ or ‘power and inequality’).
Fun fact: Boar’s Head dinner is a medieval-style feast held every year before winter break. The evening features performances from student groups, and participants often arrive in medieval-themed regalia!
Check out campus photos here!
Pre-Health Foundations
Strong Memorial Hospital, the teaching hospital across the street from the university, offers a volunteer program for college students
The Rochester Early Medical Scholars program runs an 8 year BA/BS-MD program for students committed to medicine
Research is a big part of the university, with more than 75% of undergraduates participating. U Rochester’s affiliation with its school of medicine means that there are ample opportunities for students interested in medical research.
Students can join the University of Rochester Medical Emergency Response Team to gain hands-on experience with patient care in the campus community
Other student groups like the Health Education and Advocacy Leaders connect students with low-income members of the community to provide free information and health screenings
Application Details
RD deadline: January 5th
Early Action deadline: December 1st
Supplemental essays: Yes
Application fee: $50 (waivers available)
On Common App: Yes
CSS profile: Required, due February 15th
Interviews: Recommended
School also featured in: Coaches Choice, Engineering, Music and Performing Arts, Big School Feel, Similar to Highly Selective - MIT, LGBTQIA+ Affirming