Saint Louis University

Getting in is the hard part. Saint Louis University admitted 75.0% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.

Admitted students cluster near the top of the testing range: 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, but they do not decide it.

The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what Saint Louis University actually rewards, and tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

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.

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

Verified from slu.edu.

The current prompts, straight from the application. These change year to year, so most guides you will 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.

The sticker price is about $71,932, but that is not 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.

“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.

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, and 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, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $24,398.

Is Saint Louis University worth it?

Graduates earn a median of $70,783 ten years after enrolling, and 80% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly what Spike helps you weigh.