AdmissionsOS Amherst College vs Wellesley College
| Amherst College | Wellesley College | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 9.0% | 14.1% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 1,490-1,580 | 1,460-1,560 |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 33-35 | 33-35 |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $23,367 | $25,496 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $87,640 | $86,290 |
| Graduation rate | 94% | 92% |
| Retention rate | 97% | 97% |
| Undergraduates | 1,911 | 2,300 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 6:1 | 7:1 |
| Setting | Amherst, MA | Wellesley, MA |
| Type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Application fee | $75 | None |
| Test policy | Test-optional | Test-optional |
Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.
Compare these in the interactive toolCommon questions
Is Amherst College or Wellesley College harder to get into?
Amherst College is more selective, with a 9.0% acceptance rate versus 14.1% at Wellesley College. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, Amherst College or Wellesley College?
Amherst College has the lower average net price ($23,367 versus $25,496). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.