Saint Louis University: Rankings, Courses & Admissions

The university maintains its prominent position worldwide, ranking among the top 25 U.S. universities for study abroad participation. It also consistently ranks under 500 in US News and THE rankings, further cementing its reputation for excellence across a wide range of disciplines.

Here's a look at SLU's rankings over the past three years:

Subject-specific rankings provide valuable insights into the performance of your chosen program. Let’s explore the details to see how your field of study ranks.

Top Course-wise Ranking 2024/25

SLU’s popular subjects, such as medicine (#401-450) and life sciences (#501-550), have consistently been ranked among the top 500 according to QS rankings.

Subject-wise rankings assess academic quality and program reputation, helping students make informed decisions about colleges and programs. 

Below are some of the popular subject rankings of Saint Louis University from three of the most prominent ranking bodies: QS, U.S. News, and THE rankings.

Want to know if SLU is the right fit for your bachelor's degree? Take a look at Saint Louis University's Rankings 2025 to see how it compares globally and within your field!

After reviewing the academic performance across various programs at Saint Louis University, let's now take a look at the admission requirements for students.

SLU is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate of 81%, indicating that it is open to a wide range of applicants. Understanding the admission process in advance can help you prepare your documents early and take the necessary admission tests (e.g., SAT) to increase your chances.

Below is a breakdown of the admission requirements and application deadlines for Saint Louis University:

Language Proficiency

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. Students who have completed previous education in English may be eligible for a waiver.

Here are the English language requirements:

Note: Competitive scores for SLU may vary depending on the number of applications received.

Competitive Exams 

Half of the applicants admitted to SLU who provided test scores had an SAT score ranging from 1210 to 1430 or an ACT score between 26 and 31. However, for international students, along with the required IELTS, TOEFL can be accepted instead of the SAT or ACT.

Here are the test requirements for SLU admission:

Note: Requirements vary with programs. Check the university's official website for the latest news.

Visa Requirements

Each year, approximately 41% of student visa applications in the U.S. are denied. To improve your chances, it's essential to familiarize yourself with visa requirements early. 

For admission to Saint Louis University, you will need a valid passport and an official acceptance letter from the university. You also need to provide financial proof to receive the Form I-20, which is required to apply for a USA F-1 visa.

Here are the Visa requirements for admissions at SLU:

Are you unsure if your scores meet the admission requirements? Visit the Saint Louis University Admission Page for all the details on eligibility and criteria.

Now, let's understand the available intakes and deadlines at Saint Louis University!

Application Deadline and Intakes

Saint Louis University offers four distinct application paths for first-time freshman applicants, each with specific deadlines and requirements. 

Here are the key deadlines for these intakes:

Here's a breakdown of these application paths and other details, allowing you to choose the one that fits your timeline and commitment level.

1. Early Decision I: Ideal for students committed to attending SLU, regardless of the financial aid package, and confident that SLU is the right academic and social fit.

• Binding: Yes, if admitted, you must attend and withdraw applications from all other institutions.
• Merit Scholarships: Included with admission decision.

2. Early Decision II: A second chance for students who need more time to visit the campus or finalize their application, but are still certain SLU is their top choice.

• Binding: Yes, if admitted, you must attend and withdraw applications from all other institutions.
• Merit Scholarships: Included with admission decision.

3. Early Action: Suitable for students who have a strong application ready by December 1 but prefer a non-binding option. Early Action applicants will not be reviewed with their senior year grades.

• Binding: No, you can choose to apply to other institutions.
• Merit Scholarships: Included with admission decision.

4. Regular Decision: Ideal for students who need additional time to submit application materials or want their senior year grades included in the review.

• Binding: No
• Merit Scholarships: Considered based on availability.

With the requirements and deadlines covered, let's check out the programs you can study at Saint Louis University.

Saint Louis University is recognized as an R1 research university by the Carnegie Foundation, signifying "Very High Research Activity" and a significant production of doctoral degrees. This prestigious designation places SLU among just four Catholic universities in the U.S. with such an honor.

With a commitment to academic excellence, SLU provides 100 undergraduate and 140 graduate degrees across various disciplines. Below is an overview of some notable graduate and undergraduate programs:

Undergraduate Programs at Saint Louis University:

Graduate Programs at Saint Louis University:

After exploring some popular courses at SLU, let's check out the tuition fees for these programs.

The acceptance rate of Saint Louis University ranges between 70% to 85%, varying from year to year. Students enrolled at Saint Louis University typically achieve an average SAT score of 1220 to 1430 or an average ACT score of 27 to 32.

The Cost of Attendance (COA), also referred to as the student's "budget" for a specific enrollment period, such as an academic year, represents the total estimated expenses a student may incur while attending the university, including tuition fees.

For an undergraduate student, the total cost of studying at SLU for a year, including tuition, housing, and living expenses, can range from $40,000 (INR 34L) to $120,000 (INR 1.02 Cr), depending on the chosen program. 

Graduate students, depending on their program, typically pay tuition on a per-credit basis. Total costs also vary based on personal living arrangements and program requirements.

Here's the cost associated with studying at Saint Louis University:

In addition to tuition and fees billed directly by the university, the COA includes other necessary expenses, such as transportation, school supplies, and living costs.

Let’s explore them.

At four-year institutions, students typically spend an average of $1,220 annually on textbooks and supplies, while the average cost for room and board is $12,917 per year.

The cost of living depends on your lifestyle choices. Major expenses include accommodation, food, and health insurance. If you live away from campus, you'll also need to account for transportation costs.

Here are the additional expenses to consider.

Note: The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

International students should also consider the following expenses:

• International Orientation Fee: $150 (INR 12.7K) (mandatory for new international students, covering orientation activities, airport transfers, and meals).
• Health Insurance: Approximately $2,000 (INR 1.7K) per year (subject to change; exact amount may vary).
• Visa Application Fees: Varies based on individual circumstances.

SLU offers scholarships, such as the Billiken Scholarship, to help reduce tuition costs. Students can also explore external options, such as the Fulbright program, for additional support. Let's explore these available options. 

Saint Louis University has two main campuses in the Missouri city of St. Louis. The Frost Campus, located in Midtown St. Louis, houses most of the university's academic buildings, several residence halls, and recreational facilities. The Medical Campus, located in St. Louis' Central West End, is home to the university's medical and health science programs and several hospitals and clinics. Traditional residence halls, suite-style apartments, and off-campus apartments are among the housing options available to students at the university. All on-campus housing options are fully furnished and include basic amenities like Wi-Fi and laundry.

Program Fees at Saint Louis University

Saint Louis University offers competitive tuition rates for both undergraduate and graduate programs, with the cost varying depending on the program and degree level. Additionally, the International Orientation Fee ($150 or INR 12.7K) is a required fee for all new international students. 

It helps cover the costs of the orientation program, including workshops, airport transportation, shuttle services to local shopping areas, social activities, and meals. This fee is designed to ensure a smooth transition for international students to life at Saint Louis University.

Below is a breakdown of the general tuition fees for various programs, providing a clearer picture of the financial commitment required.

Note:

• Tuition fees may vary based on specialization and program requirements.
• Housing, food, books, and additional fees (e.g., student activity fees) are not included in the tuition figures and should be considered separately.
• The exchange rates used are based on current market rates.

Apart from tuition, students also need to cover costs for housing, food, and books. Here's a breakdown of the overall expenses at SLU.

Paying for university can be overwhelming, especially with rising tuition and living costs. At Saint Louis University, nearly 90% of students receive some form of financial aid each year. 

Scholarships play a crucial role in reducing the economic burden, and SLU offers a variety of internal and external scholarship opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students. 

Below, let’s break down the Saint Louis University scholarships available to help you plan your educational expenses.

Internal Scholarships at Saint Louis University

Internal scholarships are funded by SLU's budget, federal grants, and donations. These scholarships are typically awarded based on merit, need, or specific academic achievements. 

Need-based aid is determined by your or your family's ability to pay for college, as calculated through the FAFSA. In fall 2022, the average need-based scholarship or grant awarded to first-year students was $43,263. Approximately 72% of first-year students received need-based aid.

Self-help need-based aid, including federal loans and work-study, averaged $3,439 for first-year students. Merit-based aid, awarded for academic or specific talents, averaged $28,114 for first-year students, excluding athletic scholarships.

Here are some key internal scholarships:

Note: Amounts may vary based on individual academic records and other eligibility factors.

In addition to university scholarships, you can explore financial aid opportunities provided by government programs and trusts, such as Fulbright. Let's take a closer look.

External Scholarships for Saint Louis University

Government programs, private foundations, and other organizations provide external scholarships. These scholarships typically depend on the student's nationality, field of study, or specific academic achievements. 

At SLU, you can apply for government-sponsored scholarships, such as Fulbright scholarships, or foundation-backed Inlaks Shivdasani scholarships, which offer up to $100,000 in funding.

Below are some valuable external scholarship options for international students:

Many of these scholarships are prestigious and highly competitive, making them excellent options for students seeking substantial financial assistance.

Prospective students should explore both internal and external scholarship options early in their application process.

Placement outcomes are a strong indicator of both academic quality and employer trust. Let’s take a look at the placement rates at Saint Louis University.

SLU provides a dynamic student life, with a wide range of activities and support systems designed to foster academic, personal, and professional growth. 

With over 100 student organizations, SLU is home to the Billiken, the university's mascot, which represents the university's inclusive and community-driven spirit. Students often participate in Billiken Day, a celebration of SLU's traditions and achievements.

Here are some more different activities at Saint Louis University:

• Leadership: SLU offers programs such as the Ignatian Leadership Program, focused on developing leadership skills rooted in SLU's Jesuit values
• Student Government Association (SGA): Represents students' interests and helps shape campus policies.
• SLU Ambassadors: A student-run organization that provides tours and hosts events for prospective students.

Recreation and Wellness

SLU offers various wellness programs through the Simon Recreation Center:

• Fitness Programs: Including yoga, pilates, and spinning.
• Intramural Sports: Such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball.
• Outdoor Adventures: Trips like hiking and kayaking promote physical health and relaxation.

Health & Counseling

SLU provides comprehensive services to support physical and mental health:

• Health Services: Routine care, flu shots, and health screenings.
• Counseling: Support for stress, anxiety, and mental well-being, including therapy dog interactions for relaxation.

Did You Know? SLU offers a specialized program called Therapy Dogs on Campus, where students can take a break and interact with therapy dogs, promoting relaxation and mental health.

Career Services

SLU's Handshake platform connects students with jobs and internships. Career fairs and one-on-one counseling help students prepare for the job market. Prominent employers like BJC HealthCare, Emerson Electric, and Anheuser-Busch actively recruit SLU graduates.

Social Events and Campus Life

SLU fosters a strong sense of community with events like:

• Billiken Days: A series of fun, community-driven events.
• Cultural Celebrations: International festivals and Diversity Week.
• Service Learning: Opportunities for community service in line with SLU's Jesuit values.

SLU's student life is designed to enhance both academic and personal growth. With diverse clubs, wellness programs, career services, and social events, students can engage fully in campus life while preparing for their future careers.

Saint Louis alumni have made significant contributions across various fields, including politics, academics, sports, and more. Here are some notable alumni.

At Saint Louis University, 91% of undergraduates secured employment or pursued further education within six months of graduation (2022). At the same time, 98% of SLU graduate students were employed or enrolled in further education within six months of graduation.

Here are a few more snapshots of key placement statistics over the past few years:

• For law graduates, SLU's employment rate stands at 95%, with many securing positions in top law firms and government agencies. 
• Within six months of graduation, 89% of SLU alumni were either employed, enrolled in graduate or professional school, engaged in a year of service, serving in the military, or not seeking employment.
• The average salary of full-time employed alumni is $63,314 (INR 54L)

Over the years, placement rates for both undergraduate and graduate students have remained consistently good, demonstrating the effectiveness of SLU's career services and academic programs.

Let’s see some of the top recruiters hiring graduates from Saint Louis University.

Top Recruiters at Saint Louis University

While SLU does not officially publish a fixed list of top recruiters, the university's Career Services Office works closely with numerous employers across various sectors to connect students with job opportunities. 

Below are some of the leading companies and organizations that frequently recruit SLU graduates:

1. BJC HealthCare
   BJC HealthCare, one of the largest employers in the St. Louis area, recruits SLU graduates, especially from nursing and health sciences programs. They often hire for clinical, administrative, and research positions.
2. Emerson Electric Co.
   A global leader in automation technology, Emerson recruits SLU engineering students for various roles, particularly in electrical, mechanical, and systems engineering.
3. Deloitte
   Deloitte, a leading global consulting and professional services firm, regularly recruits SLU graduates from business and accounting programs for consulting, tax, and audit positions.
4. KPMG
   KPMG hires SLU graduates for positions in auditing, tax consulting, and advisory roles, offering a wide range of career development opportunities.
5. Lutheran Senior Services
   A prominent healthcare provider, Lutheran Senior Services recruits SLU graduates from various disciplines, particularly those in health sciences, social work, and business management.
6. Scottrade (now part of TD Ameritrade)
   A major player in the financial services industry, Scottrade regularly recruits SLU graduates for roles in economic analysis, investments, and operations management.
7. Anheuser-Busch
   Known for its iconic beer brands, Anheuser-Busch recruits SLU graduates for positions in marketing, operations, and supply chain across its global operations.
8. Boeing
   As one of the world's largest aerospace companies, Boeing frequently hires SLU graduates from engineering and technology disciplines for roles in aerospace manufacturing and research.

SLU’s Career Services Office plays a crucial role in helping students secure internships and full-time employment. Let's explore these in more detail.

Internship and Co-op Opportunities

SLU's focus on real-world preparation, networking, and personalized career counseling has led to consistently high employment outcomes for its graduates

They provide various resources, including:

• Job Fairs: SLU hosts multiple career fairs throughout the year, where students can meet recruiters from top companies.
• Internships: The office helps students find internships that provide real-world experience and enhance their employability.
• CPT and OPT Programs: For STEM graduates, SLU offers Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT) opportunities to gain work experience in the U.S.

Saint Louis University has two campuses: one in St. Louis and another in Madrid. Let's explore the distinct features each campus has to offer.

Saint Louis University Campuses

Saint Louis University has two primary campuses, one in St. Louis, Missouri, and another in Madrid, Spain. Each campus offers distinct opportunities, programs, and experiences, tailored to the needs of students from around the world. 

Below is a breakdown of both campuses, showcasing their unique attributes.

1. St. Louis (Missouri) Campus

The campus spans 271 acres and is situated in the vibrant Midtown district, providing students with a mix of historic and modern urban environments.

• The St. Louis campus is home to one of the oldest university-owned hospitals in the United States, SLU Hospital, which offers both academic and clinical opportunities for medical students.
• The Billiken Sports Center offers state-of-the-art facilities for athletics and recreation. SLU's Division I athletic teams compete in the Atlantic 10 Conference, with programs such as basketball and soccer consistently performing at a high level.
• A Carnegie-classified R2 university, SLU is known for impactful research, especially in health sciences, aerospace, and social justice.

2. Madrid Campus (Spain)

The Madrid campus is the only U.S.-based university campus in Spain that offers a direct pathway to graduate studies in law, business, and public health, benefiting students who want to pursue advanced degrees in Europe.

• It is particularly known for its focus on preparing students for global careers in Europe, Latin America, and beyond.
• SLU-Madrid offers complete undergraduate and select graduate programs. You can start and finish your degree in Spain or transition between campuses.
• More than 65 nationalities are represented on campus; classes are taught in English, with options to improve your Spanish fluency.
• It offers access to the European Union and other international organizations headquartered in Madrid.

Each campus supports SLU's mission to prepare students for success, whether in the U.S., Europe, or beyond.

For better decision-making, it's important to understand how SLU performs across different parameters compared to other universities. Let’s take a look at its performance.

Saint Louis University V/S University of Missouri V/S University of Dayton: Which is Better?

Choosing a university for higher studies is a big decision, and to make the right choice, it’s essential to compare it with similar institutions. 

For instance, SLU’s median salary is $60,716, compared to that of the University of Missouri ($52,756), offering insight into graduate employability. This helps build a better understanding of what each university has to offer.

To get a clearer picture, let’s take a look at how Saint Louis University performs against similar schools like the University of Missouri and the University of Dayton.

University of Missouri's QS rank of #641-650 is notably higher than SLU (#951-1000), while the University of Dayton is only ranked in QS subject rankings in management (#68). Additionally, SLU offers more courses (277) compared to UCM (106) and DU, which has more than 140.

Now that you have a better understanding of how Saint Louis compares to similar universities, let's take a look at the student life it offers.

SLU's alumni network is vast, with over 137,000 members in more than 100 countries. Many SLU alumni have gone on to achieve significant success in their respective fields.

For example, the university's law school is composed of notable attorneys and judges, while graduates from the business school have gone on to lead major corporations across various industries.

Here are some distinguished alumni from Saint Louis University.

These are just a few names of the many notable SLU alumni who continue to make a positive impact in society through leadership, innovation, and social change.