Don’t let the name confuse you: WashU isn’t in D.C. or Washington state. This private research university is headquartered in Missouri and simply named after the country’s first president.
There are approximately 7,000 full-time undergraduate students at the school. With a 12% admissions rate, getting in is tough, and its academic program is rigorous. But students get to learn from an illustrious faculty, with Pulitzer Prize recipients and Poet Laureates among the ranks.
The primary campus for undergraduate students is Danforth, a 169-acre campus with tree-lined walkways and sprawling green lawns. The campus boasts several eateries and cafes, a recreation center and even a theater. (It is currently undergoing significant changes with the construction of the new 110,000-square-foot building for the Arts & Sciences building.)
Students looking for a lively campus culture will find plenty to do. The university’s traditions include First Year Finale, a celebration that helps freshmen reflect on their first year, and Dr. G’s Fun House, a series of free events featuring food, music and games designed to give students a study break.
WashU has one of the highest sticker prices on Money’s Best Colleges list, but roughly half of undergrads get financial aid to bring the cost down. The school says the average need-based financial aid package is about $73,000.
