Washington and Lee University Overview

Washington and Lee University is a four-year, full-time, more selective, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in Lexington, VA. It has an enrollment of 1,850 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 18.85%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $27,417. Tuition is $59,380.00 without financial aid.

Washington and Lee University is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At Washington and Lee University, 96.08% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

Washington and Lee University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 8 to 1.

Washington and Lee University Website

Washington and Lee University Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 18.85%.

SAT or ACT scores are considered but not required.

• The average SAT score was 1487.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 34.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

Washington and Lee University Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $27,417.

The average tuition is:

• $769, when family income is less than $30,000

• $743, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $4,132, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $10,395, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $43,946, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 15.42% of students received a federal student loan and 10.54% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $59,380.00 without financial aid.

Washington and Lee University Net Price Calculator

Washington and Lee University Majors/Salaries

Washington and Lee University has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at Washington and Lee University here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Journalism. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $42,682
• Computer Science. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $91,744
• Law. (First Professional Degree) – $72,642
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $37,593
• Mathematics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $76,460
• Economics. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $55,964
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,007
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $56,641
• Accounting and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $66,449
• History. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,409

Washington and Lee University Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at Washington and Lee University

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.05%
• Asian: 3.84%
• Black: 3.89%
• Hispanic: 7.03%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.05%
• Non-resident alien: 5.30%
• Two or more races: 4.65%
• Unknown: 0.76%
• White: 74.43%

At Washington and Lee University, 0.11% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

Washington and Lee University Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at Washington and Lee University?

At Washington and Lee University, school spirit is strong and deeply rooted in the institution’s history and traditions. Students take pride in their school and are very invested in its success. The university has a number of unique traditions fostering school spirit, including the biannual Mock Convention, where students predict the presidential nominee of the opposing political party, and Generals’ Day, an annual celebration where students participate in various contests and activities. Additionally, sports teams are a big part of school spirit, with football and basketball games drawing large crowds of enthusiastic fans. Overall, Washington and Lee University has a strong and vibrant school spirit culture.

What are some popular extracurriculars at Washington and Lee University?

Washington and Lee University offers a variety of extracurricular activities for their students. Some of the popular extracurriculars at Washington and Lee University are: 1. Greek life – Washington and Lee has a robust Greek life with more than 70% of students participating in sororities and fraternities. 2. Club sports – The university offers a wide range of club sports, including rugby, ultimate frisbee, and water polo. 3. Mock Trial – The Mock Trial team at Washington and Lee has a history of success in national competitions. 4. Volunteer Programs – The university has a range of volunteer programs, including the Shepherd Poverty Program, that helps students engage directly with social justice work. 5. Outdoor Programs – Washington and Lee University has a well-established outdoor program with trips, activities, and courses that are centered around themes such as rock climbing, backpacking, and sustainable living.

How are the food choices at Washington and Lee University?

Washington and Lee University is known for having a wide variety of on-campus dining options. The main dining facility, the Marketplace, offers a diverse selection of dishes, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Other dining options on campus include the Café 77, which serves Starbucks coffee, smoothies, and light meals; the Duchossois Center for Athletics and Recreation, which has a café and smoothie bar; and the Elrod University Commons, which offers a grill-style restaurant and a convenience store. Additionally, the campus hosts regular food-related events, such as cooking classes and food competitions. Overall, students at Washington and Lee have a great array of dining options to choose from.

Is there Greek life at Washington and Lee University?

Yes, Washington and Lee University has a strong Greek life culture. Approximately 70% of students belong to one of the 13 fraternities or 7 sororities on campus. Greek life at Washington and Lee has both social and philanthropic aspects, with many chapters actively involved in community service and fundraising for charitable causes. However, it’s worth noting that Greek life is not for everyone, and there are plenty of other student organizations and activities to get involved in on campus.

What is Washington and Lee University known for?

Washington and Lee University is a private liberal arts university located in Lexington, Virginia. It is particularly known for its strong undergraduate programs in business and law, as well as its rigorous liberal arts curriculum. The university is also known for its honor system, which has been in place since the mid-1800s and is one of the oldest and most respected in the country. Additionally, Washington and Lee University is notable for its beautiful campus and historic buildings, including the Lee Chapel and Museum.

What are the most popular school clubs at Washington and Lee University?

Washington and Lee University in Virginia has a variety of popular club opportunities for students, whether it be for academic, social, or community service purposes. Some of the most popular school clubs at Washington and Lee University include the following: 1) WLU Outing Club – This club offers outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and rock climbing. 2) Mock Convention – This is a long-standing tradition at Washington and Lee, where every four years, students predict the party nominees and presidential election results. It attracts a lot of attention from national media. 3) Volunteer Venture – This club provides students the chance to participate in community service and volunteer work in the region. 4) Campus Kitchen at Washington and Lee – This club collects leftover food from campus dining halls and donates it to local social service agencies and non-profits. 5) Women in Technology and Science – This club supports women pursuing careers in STEM fields, providing resources and networking opportunities. 6) College Republicans/Democrats – These clubs attract students interested in politics, and offer events to discuss current issues and perspectives. These are just a few examples of the variety of clubs and activities available at Washington and Lee.

Is the campus at Washington and Lee University safe?

Washington and Lee University has a relatively low crime rate, with most occurrences being petty crimes such as theft. The university has its own police force, and safety measures such as emergency notification systems, escort services, and security cameras are in place. However, as with any college campus, it is important for students to take precautions and be aware of their surroundings.