Saint Louis University Acceptance Rate

Saint Louis University (SLU), a private Jesuit institution in St. Louis, Missouri, has an acceptance rate of approximately 81%. This indicates a moderately selective admissions process, with approximately 8,500 undergraduate students enrolled.

For international students, including those from India, SLU maintains a welcoming stance, admitting over 600 international students from more than 70 countries. Notably, 85% of new first-year students receive financial aid, making it a more accessible option for qualified applicants.

This blog explores Saint Louis University acceptance rate, key admission criteria, and specific requirements for international students. It provides insights into the application process, deadlines, and strategies to improve your chances of acceptance.​

What is the Saint Louis University Acceptance Rate for 2025?

SLU is a privately focused institution, ranked #105 in the U.S. News 2025 rankings, which reflects its moderate acceptance rate. Knowing the Saint Louis University acceptance rate is crucial for prospective students, particularly international applicants, to assess the competitiveness of their application. 

With this understanding, you can effectively prepare for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT and ensure your GPA meets the required standards. Moreover, it helps you explore alternative options, such as dual enrollment programs or considering other universities as backup choices.

The table below provides key statistics about SLU:

Unsure how Saint Louis University acceptance rate aligns with your profile? Schedule a free 1:1 counseling session with upGrad's expert advisors to get personalized insights into your chances and how your profile stacks up.

With an understanding of SLU's admission statistics, let's now examine the acceptance rate for international students.

What Is Saint Louis University's Current Acceptance Rate for International Students?

While specific data for international students is not publicly available, SLU's inclusive admissions process suggests that international applicants have a favorable chance of acceptance. 

Over the past decade, SLU has averaged 14,459 applicants annually, with 9,519 admissions and 1,664 first-year students enrolling each year. In the most recent admissions cycle, the number of applicants increased by 18.41%, adding 2,391 more applicants compared to the previous year.

The table below illustrates SLU's change in the number of applicants, admitted students, and enrolled first-year students over the past five years:​

The 2020-21 academic year had the highest number of applicants (16,580), but enrollment dropped to 1,542. However, in 2021-22, there was a rise in admissions (10,533) and a stable enrollment of 1,791. 

In 2022-23, the number of admitted students reached 11,001, indicating a higher yield rate. The 2023-24 academic year saw a recovery in applicants (15,377) and a slight increase in enrollment, indicating steady conversion despite external challenges.

Overall, SLU is attracting a significant and consistent number of applicants. Still, conversion rates fluctuate, possibly due to increased competition from other universities or the impact of financial and logistical factors, such as travel and visa complications, which are especially challenging for international students.

While international students' enrollment shows the global popularity of Saint Louis University, the changing trends in Saint Louis University acceptance rates make it worth analyzing this institution more closely. See ahead!

Saint Louis University Acceptance Rate Trends

The average acceptance rate at SLU over the past decade has been 66.11%, with this year’s Saint Louis University acceptance rate rising to 81%. The acceptance rate for male applicants is 64.75%, while that for female applicants is slightly higher at 67.29%. 

In 2024, admission to Saint Louis University became marginally more competitive compared to the previous year.

The table below shows the trends of how the acceptance rates at Saint Louis University have evolved over the past five years:

Here’s a graphical representation of the Saint Louis University acceptance rate:

The admission rate at SLU has shown a clear upward trend across all categories, particularly from 2020-21 to 2022-23, where the overall acceptance rate jumped from 55.54% to 84.71%. 

This indicates a shift toward a more favorable admissions process, likely aimed at increasing enrollment. In 2023-24, the rate slightly decreased to 81.47%, possibly due to increased selectivity or heightened competition.

Gender-wise:

• Women consistently have a higher acceptance rate, peaking at 87.32% in the 2022-23 academic year.
• For men, the rate was slightly lower, reaching a peak of 83.23% in 2022-23.

This trend suggests that SLU may be actively focusing on attracting more female applicants or experiencing a natural demographic shift.

After exploring the admission acceptance trends at SLU, let's understand the demographics of the SLU student population.

Student Demographics at Saint Louis University

SLU owns a diverse student body, with students from all 50 U.S. states and more than 87 countries. The undergraduate population consists of approximately 7,396 students, with a gender distribution of 40.1% male and 59.9% female.

When examining the ethnic composition of SLU’s student body, the breakdown is as follows:​

These demographics highlight SLU's commitment to encouraging a diverse and inclusive academic environment.​

Want to make sure if SLU is the right choice for your preferred subject? Have a look at the Saint Louis University Rankings 2025 to see how it compares globally and within your area of study!

Now, let’s identify the factors that influence the selection process at SLU.

Factors Influencing Saint Louis University Admission

A strong GPA, competitive standardized test scores like the SAT, a meticulous curriculum, and success in college preparatory courses are all crucial elements in the college admissions process. In addition, extracurricular activities, class rank, letters of recommendation, and personal essays play a significant role in shaping your application. 

By understanding these factors, you can strategically focus on areas such as improving test scores, maintaining a high GPA, securing relevant internships, or participating in community service to increase your chances of acceptance.

Below is a breakdown of the factors that influence your admission:

Academic Performance (GPA & Standardized Tests)

SLU employs a test-optional policy for most undergraduate programs, allowing applicants to choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores without being disadvantaged in the admission process. 

However, certain programs may prefer or require standardized test scores, so it's essential to check specific program requirements.

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. For international students, along with the required IELTS, TOEFL can be accepted instead of the SAT or ACT.

Here are the academic requirements for SLU:

While academic scores are often the first step in the screening process, extracurricular activities can be the deciding factor when applicants are closely matched. Let's explore how they make a difference.

Extracurricular Activities & Leadership Roles

At SLU, extracurricular activities and leadership roles are pivotal in shaping a student's college experience and enhancing their application. 

Active participation in these areas demonstrates initiative, responsibility, and a commitment to community, qualities that resonate with admissions committees, especially for international students aiming to present a well-rounded profile.​

Here are some factors beyond academics that influence admissions:

• Student Organizations

SLU possesses over 215 student organizations, encompassing a wide array of interests from academic societies to cultural clubs and service groups. These organizations provide platforms for students to collaborate with peers and engage in meaningful activities. 

For instance, the Student Government Association (SGA) represents student interests and allocates funds to various student-led initiatives, fostering a sense of governance and responsibility among its members. 

• Volunteer Work

Community service is deeply embedded in SLU's mission, with students, faculty, and staff contributing over 1.6 million volunteer hours annually. This involvement spans various initiatives, including local outreach programs and national service days. 

The Center for Social Action facilitates these efforts by connecting individuals with over 500 nonprofit organizations, offering a diverse range of volunteer opportunities.

• Athletics

SLU's commitment to athletics is evident through its NCAA Division I programs, which span 18 sports, including basketball, soccer, and swimming. 

The recent addition of the O’Loughlin Family Champions Center, a $20 million facility, underscores the university's dedication to supporting student-athletes with state-of-the-art resources and training spaces.

• Leadership Roles

SLU offers numerous opportunities for students to assume leadership positions, such as serving as First-Year Experience Leaders, who help incoming students transition to college life. 

Additionally, the Residence Hall Association (RHA) offers students opportunities to take on leadership roles within campus housing, which helps them develop their organizational and interpersonal skills.

For international students, highlighting such involvement can demonstrate adaptability and a readiness to contribute to the SLU community.​

In addition to these factors, your SOPs and LORs provide valuable insight into your personality, motivations, and qualifications. These elements help demonstrate why you are a strong candidate for admission. 

Let's explore how each of these components contributes to your overall application.

Personal Essays & Letters of Recommendation

SOPs and letters of recommendation aren't mandatory for all programs at SLU. Still, when submitted thoughtfully, they carry considerable weight in admission decisions, especially for competitive tracks like the Honors Program, Pre-Med, or accelerated degree options.

Here’s how they impact your admission:

1. Personal Essays: What SLU Looks For

SLU places a strong emphasis on values-driven education. Founded on Jesuit principles, its core admissions philosophy centres on understanding a student's moral compass, commitment to service, and intellectual curiosity, rather than just GPA or test scores.

What makes a strong personal essay at SLU?

• Purpose and Alignment: SLU’s mission centers on “higher purpose, greater good.” Your essay should clearly demonstrate how your goals reflect this.
• Service Orientation: If you’ve participated in social initiatives, outreach, or any form of community engagement, be sure to highlight it. Tie it to your academic interests or career path.
• Academic Preparedness + Reflection: Instead of just listing achievements, reflect on what you’ve learned from them.

Quick Tips:

• Limit clichés (e.g., “I want to help people” without context).
• Be specific about why SLU—mention professors, research centers (like the Center for Vaccine Development), or programs (like the Medallion Leadership Program) that align with your path.

2. Letters of Recommendation: Who You Choose Matters

While not required for most undergraduate programs, an LOR can make a meaningful difference, particularly for merit scholarships, direct-entry to limited-capacity programs (like Nursing or Physician Assistant Studies), or early assurance medical tracks.

SLU does not provide a rigid LOR format, but values letters that:

• Come from someone who’s seen your academic progression or character under pressure.
• Include quantifiable impact (e.g., “Ranked in the top 3 out of 120 students in AP Biology” or “Led a volunteer team of 40 peers at XYZ NGO”).
• Reflect Jesuit-compatible traits such as ethical judgment, resilience, and leadership with a purpose.

Pro Tip: LOR should address how your actions have reflected values such as social justice, critical thinking, and compassion. Vague character praise (e.g., “I am hardworking and kind”) is unlikely to make a difference unless backed by specific examples.

Where LORs Matter Most?

• Honors Program: Strongly recommended
• School of Medicine pipeline programs: Essential
• Accelerated Law or MBA programs: It helps if the recommender can speak to your maturity

Some students include a recommendation from a community service mentor or religious leader, which aligns well with SLU’s spiritual heritage and mission-centered education.

By understanding these factors and aligning your application accordingly, you can enhance your prospects of admission to SLU.

Want to know if your scores meet SLU’s admission standards? Head to the SLU’s Admission Page for a full breakdown of eligibility, score requirements, and criteria!

With this understanding, let’s explore the application process for studying at SLU.

Requirements for the Application Process at Saint Louis University

SLU offers nearly 100 academic programs, with 90 bachelor's programs alone. With such diverse programs, the requirements may vary. If you're an international student, you'll also need to submit English language test scores (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS) and visa-related documents.

Here are the different documents required to apply to SLU:

Now, let’s find out the steps involved in applying to Saint Louis.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply to Saint Louis University

Each year, SLU accepts only about 8 out of every 10 applicants. While the odds may seem in your favor, incomplete or poorly prepared applications still face rejection.

Thus, following a well-structured process is essential, as it helps you stay ahead with no missed deadlines and no last-minute surprises. You'll know exactly what to prepare, from academic records to financial paperwork. 

Typically, you apply through the university portal and upload the required documents, such as transcripts and test scores (e.g., SAT scores).

International applicants must also submit English proficiency scores (such as the IELTS or TOEFL) and provide financial documents, including bank statements, to receive a Form I-20 and a U.S. F-1 visa.

Here are the steps involved.

Step 1: Submit Your Application: Complete and submit the application through the Common Application or SLU's online application portal.​

Step 2: Send Academic Transcripts: Request your high school to send official transcripts electronically to admission@slu.edu.​

Step 3: Decide on Standardized Test Scores: Choose whether to submit ACT/SAT scores. If you opt to include them, send scores electronically or include them on official high school transcripts.​

Step 4: Demonstrate English Language Proficiency (International Students): Submit official scores from one of the accepted English proficiency tests:

• IELTS: 6.5
• Duolingo: 110
• PTE: 54
• Computer-based TOEFL (IBT): 80
• Paper-based TOEFL (PBT): 550

Step 5: Provide Financial Documentation (International Students): Submit original bank statements showing balances in U.S. dollars. You can also submit letters from bank officials verifying the account holder, account number, and balance in U.S. dollars.

Step 6: Submit Additional Documents: While optional, it's recommended to submit:

• Letters of recommendation (1-3 letters)
• Resume of activities
• Personal essay
• Schedule an admission interview

Step 7: Await Admission Decision: SLU operates on a rolling admissions basis, but for priority consideration, adhere to the following deadlines:

• Early Decision: November 1
• Early Action: December 1

Step 8: Post-Acceptance Steps (International Students): Upon acceptance, complete the following:

• Submit additional financial documents and final transcripts
• Receive your Certificate of Eligibility (Form I-20 or DS-2019)
• Schedule a visa interview at your local U.S. embassy
• Arrange for housing and submit health forms
• Attend student orientation

To improve your chances of gaining admission to Saint Louis University, it's essential to focus on key areas of your application. Let's explore some key tips to strategically enhance your profile!

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into Saint Louis University? Key Suggestions

With an acceptance rate of around 81%, SLU is moderately selective, indicating that for every 100 applicants, about 19 are not admitted. This means that nearly one in five applicants face rejection, highlighting the importance of distinguishing yourself in the admissions process. 

While meeting the minimum academic requirements is essential, standing out in a pool of applicants requires strategic preparation. 

Let's see some actionable tips to enhance your application and improve your chances of admission.​

Strengthen Your Academic Profile

• Maintain a High GPA: Aim for a GPA of 3.6 or higher on a 4.0 scale. For competitive programs like nursing, a GPA of 3.2 or above is recommended.
• Excel in Standardized Tests: While SLU has a test-optional policy, submitting strong SAT or ACT scores can bolster your application. For instance, the average SAT score for accepted students is around 1310, and the average ACT score is 28.
• Complete Rigorous Coursework: Ensure your high school curriculum includes four years each of English and mathematics, as well as three years each of a foreign language, natural sciences, and social sciences.

Craft a Compelling Statement of Purpose

• Be Specific and Personal: Clearly articulate your reasons for choosing SLU and how its programs align with your academic and career goals.​
• Highlight Relevant Experiences: Discuss any internships, projects, or volunteer work that have prepared you for your chosen field of study.​
• Demonstrate Fit: Explain why SLU is the ideal place for your academic growth and how you can contribute to its community.​

Showcase Extracurricular Involvement

• Engage in Meaningful Activities: Participate in clubs, sports, or volunteer work that demonstrate leadership and commitment.​
• Take on Leadership Roles: Serving as a club president or team captain can highlight your leadership skills.​
• Document Your Involvement: Keep a resume that details your extracurricular activities to present a well-rounded application. ​

Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation

• Choose Recommenders Wisely: Select teachers, mentors, or supervisors who know you well and can speak to your strengths and character.​
• Provide Supporting Materials: Share your resume and personal statement with your recommenders to help them write detailed and personalized letters.​
• Request Letters Early: Give your recommenders ample time to write thoughtful letters before the application deadline.​

Demonstrate Interest in SLU

• Attend Information Sessions: Participate in SLU's virtual or in-person events to learn more about the university and express your interest.​
• Engage with Admissions Counselors: Reach out with questions or to schedule an interview, showing your proactive interest in the university. ​
• Follow Up: After interactions, send thank-you emails to express appreciation and reinforce your interest in SLU.​

By focusing on these areas, you can improve your application and increase your chances of being admitted to Saint Louis University.