Williams College
Williamstown, MA · Private Nonprofit
*Net price for families earning $48k–$75k. See all income brackets →
What is Williams College's acceptance rate?
Down 3 percentage points since 2018
With a 10.0% acceptance rate, Williams College is considered extremely selective. The school has become increasingly competitive over the past five years. Applicants should focus on demonstrating strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and authentic personal essays to stand out in the applicant pool.
How many students apply to Williams College?
Williams College received 11,465 applications in 2023, up 20% since 2018. High application volume means admissions officers spend limited time per application—typically 8-15 minutes. Make every word count in your essays and ensure your application materials are error-free.
How many admitted students enroll?
The yield rate of 47% is strong for a school of this caliber. Yield rate measures how many admitted students actually enroll—a key indicator of how desirable students find the school. Demonstrating genuine interest through campus visits, attending info sessions, and writing specific "Why Us" essays can improve your chances.
What are the most popular majors at Williams College?
Economics leads as the most popular major at Williams College. Your intended major can affect admission chances—some programs are more competitive than others. Research department-specific requirements, faculty research, and career outcomes when choosing your major. Consider how your academic interests align with the school's strengths.
How have majors changed over time?
Degrees awarded by major, 2015-2023
How has tuition changed at Williams College?
Tuition has increased by 13% since 2015. Total cost of attendance (including fees and room & board) has grown 12% from $56,770 to $63,520.
How much do Williams College graduates earn by major?
Graduates in Computer Science earn among the highest salaries, with median earnings of $96,183 within two years of graduation. Earnings vary significantly by major—STEM and business fields typically offer higher starting salaries, while humanities and arts may have different career trajectories. Consider both passion and practical outcomes when choosing your field of study.
Williams College Admissions Statistics (2018-2023)
Each row shows the admissions cycle for that academic year. Applicants is the total number of students who applied for freshman admission. Admitted shows how many received acceptance letters. Rate is the acceptance rate (admitted ÷ applicants) — lower percentages indicate more selective schools. Yield measures the percentage of admitted students who actually enrolled — a high yield (above 50%) suggests the school is a top choice for admitted students, while lower yields indicate students often choose other options. SAT shows the 25th-75th percentile range, meaning the middle 50% of enrolled students scored within this range. Data is sourced from IPEDS, the federal database where all US colleges report annually.
| Year | Applicants | Admitted | Rate | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 11,465 | 1,145 | 10.0% | 47.3% |
| 2022 | 15,321 | 1,302 | 8.5% | 44.3% |
| 2021 | 12,452 | 1,099 | 8.8% | 52.2% |
| 2020 | 8,744 | 1,322 | 15.1% | 36.5% |
| 2019 | 9,715 | 1,224 | 12.6% | 44.6% |
| 2018 | 9,560 | 1,240 | 13.0% | 43.0% |
| 2017 | 8,593 | 1,253 | 14.6% | 43.7% |
| 2016 | 6,985 | 1,230 | 17.6% | 45.0% |
| 2015 | 6,883 | 1,212 | 17.6% | 45.5% |
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What do Williams College graduates earn?
Earnings vary widely: the bottom 10% earn $16,800 while the top 10% earn $167,700. Your outcome depends heavily on major, career path, and individual circumstances.
How much does Williams College cost?
The total cost of attendance at Williams College is approximately $63,520 per year. Remember: sticker price rarely equals actual cost. Most students receive financial aid, and net price varies significantly by family income. Use the school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate before ruling out any option based on cost alone.
What You'll Actually Pay
Low-income families may pay nothing—or even receive money back for expenses. Williams College meets full demonstrated financial need for admitted students. This means your admission decision is need-blind, and the school commits to making attendance affordable. File the FAFSA and CSS Profile early to maximize your aid package.
What are the top majors?
- 1 Economics
- 2 Biology, General
- 3 Computer Science
- 4 English Language and Literature, General
- 5 Fine and Studio Arts
Which majors pay the most?
- Computer Science $96,183
- Economics $76,460
- Social Sciences, Other $68,219
- Mathematics $53,358
- Political Science and Government $51,482
Who attends Williams College?
Williams College enrolls 2,168 students, with 10% from outside the United States. Women make up 52% of the student body. Campus diversity enriches the educational experience through varied perspectives and backgrounds. Consider how you'll contribute to and benefit from the campus community when crafting your application.
How much financial aid is available?
56% of students receive some form of financial aid at Williams College. About 17% receive Pell Grants, indicating support for low-income students. Apply for aid regardless of your family's income level—merit scholarships and institutional grants are available to students at various income levels. Never assume you won't qualify.
How much do professors earn?
Faculty salaries at Williams College are above the national average, reflecting the school's investment in attracting and retaining talented professors. Higher faculty compensation often correlates with stronger research programs, better student mentorship, and more resources for academic departments. Look for opportunities to engage with faculty through research, office hours, and smaller seminars.
What schools are similar to Williams College?
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