Overview
Founded in 1870 by Henry and Pauline Fowle Durant, Wellesley College is one of the most prestigious women's colleges in the United States and a founding member of the Seven Sisters. From its earliest days, the college committed to rigorous academic preparation for women at a time when higher education for women was rare, and it has since built a reputation for academic excellence across the humanities, sciences, and social sciences. Wellesley is particularly known for its strong pre-professional pipeline into law, medicine, finance, and public service, and counts numerous heads of state, diplomats, and corporate leaders among its graduates.
At a Glance
| Type | Liberal Arts |
| Location | Wellesley, Massachusetts |
| Founded | 1870 |
| Total students | 2,400 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 8:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 13% |
| Graduation rate | 92% |
| Average starting salary | $62,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $62,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $62,000 |
| Room & board | $19,500 |
| Average financial aid | $52,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 58% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1420-1540 |
| ACT range | 32-34 |
| Average GPA | 4.0 |
| Regular deadline | January 1 |
Top Programs
- Economics
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Biological Sciences
- International Relations
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.