If you’re reading this, you’re likely wondering if your kid has what it takes to get into University of Rochester. You’ve come to the right place: we’re going to answer all your admissions questions and more. But first, let’s learn what makes the University of Rochester an unlikely contender in the elite college admissions game. 

About the University of Rochester

Located in upstate New York, the University of Rochester has around 6,500 undergraduates. This makes it a nice medium-sized choice for students. 76% of students live on campus, meaning they get to enjoy beautiful views of the Genesee River. And the undergraduate population is split up between Rochester’s three schools: Arts, Sciences & Engineering, the Eastman School of Music, and the School of Nursing. 

With an acceptance rate of 41%, Rochester is a good choice for students looking for a moderately competitive place to apply. That being said, what makes a successful Rochester applicant? 

The University of Rochester Admissions Requirements

Obviously, GPA, standardized testing scores, and extracurricular achievements are the key components of a successful application to the University of Rochester and to any school. That being said, what do these components actually look like for the University of Rochester admits? Without further ado, let’s dive in!

What Kind of GPA Is Necessary To Get Into the University of Rochester?

The following is the GPA breakdown of the members of the University of Rochester Class of 2029:

GPA	Percentage of University of Rochester Class of 2029
4.0	21.75%
3.75-3.99	33.31%
3.5-3.74	24.38%
3.25-3.49	14.27%
3.0-3.24	5.35%
2.5-2.99	0.85%
2.0-2.49	0.08%
1.0-1.99	0%

What Kind of SAT or ACT Scores Are Needed To Get Into the URochester?

The average SAT score for the University of Rochester Class of 2028 was a 1370, and the average ACT score was a 30. Rochester is not a test-optional school. Though Rochester is test-optional, we at Ivy Coach believe that not submitting test scores can only ever hurt an applicant’s chances, even to supposedly test-optional schools. 

What Classes Do Students Need to Take to Get Into the University of Rochester?

Rochester lists the following as their minimum academic preparation to be considered for admission: 

• English: 4 years
• Foreign Language: 2 years of one language
• Mathematics: 3 years (including Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II)
• Science: 2 years (one year each of Biology and Chemistry for the School of Nursing)
• Other Courses: 5 other academic courses

Of course, we would never recommend just two or three years of preparation in any subject. We at Ivy Coach know that colleges want to see students excelling in each core subject (English, history, math, science, and foreign language) all four years of high school. In fact, they expect to see five years for foreign language since most students begin their first level of foreign language in eighth grade.

What Kinds of Extracurriculars Does the URochester Like To See?

We’re going to clear up a common misunderstanding: highly selective colleges are not looking for well-rounded students. They’re looking for a well-rounded student body comprised of students who are each singularly talented. 

In terms of extracurriculars, that means the University of Rochester is looking for depth over breadth. If you’re a member of the debate team, the robotics team, the field hockey team, and the drama department…well, then, you’re merely a member of those groups. You don’t stand out in any of these pursuits. The University of Rochester would much rather accept a nationally ranked debate champ than a kid who spent an hour or two on debate a week because he spent the rest forgetting Shakespeare lines and fumbling the ball in football practice. 

University of Rochester Application Requirements

The University of Rochester accepts The Common Application or Coalition Application. They ask for one letter of recommendation from a teacher. Finally, applicants must respond to the following supplemental questions: 

• The University of Rochester benefactor, entrepreneur, photography pioneer and philanthropist George Eastman said, “The progress of the world depends almost entirely upon education.” In what ways do you envision using the curricular flexibility and co-curricular opportunities at the University of Rochester to promote progress and change within the communities you inhabit? (250 word limit)

Who Should Students Ask For Letters of Recommendation For URochester? 

Rochester applicants should ask a junior year teacher in a core subject. Obviously, the applicant should have a good relationship with the teacher or at least have performed well in their class. In addition, the recommender’s subject area should be related to the student’s hook: if a student’s singular hook is studying fruit fly DNA, it wouldn’t make sense if their recommender was their History and English teachers. 

Does the University of Rochester Require An Interview? 

Yes, Rochester offers (and highly recommends!) an interview. 

What Are the University of Rochester’s Application Deadlines? 

Early Decision I applications to Rochester are due Nov. 1. Early Decision II and Regular Decision applications are due January 15th. 

How Ivy Coach Helps Students Get Into the University of Rochester 

If you’re interested in discerning if your child has a shot of getting into the University of Rochester, we recommend setting up Ivy Coach’s Strategy Session. Not only will you find out if your child has a chance of getting into the University of Rochester, but you’ll receive a game plan of how your child can optimize their admission to the best school possible.