A straight answer: 22.2% acceptance rate.
This means for every 100 applicants, only 22 actually get in. No guessing. University of Richmond is a COMP institution located in Richmond, VA — competition varies by program, but this is the official average.
Who Actually Gets In? (Men vs Women)
Quick breakdown so you get the real picture:
Men
Women
If you think one gender has an edge — the data tells what’s up.
Applications vs Admits: The Funnel That Matters
This is where the reality hits:
Yield Rate: N/A
This shows how many admitted students choose University of Richmond. High yield = high confidence. Low yield = students had better options.
What Scores Do You Need?
If you're applying without knowing what scores to aim for… that’s how rejection letters happen.
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Aim for the 75th percentile if you want peace of mind.
How to Interpret the University of Richmond Acceptance Rate the Right Way
Searching for the University of Richmond acceptance rate is often the first step students take when researching admissions. While the number itself is easy to find, interpreting it correctly takes a bit more nuance. Acceptance rates are averages, and averages rarely tell personal stories.
At University of Richmond, an acceptance rate of 22.2% reflects a wide mix of applicants—some highly prepared, some just beginning to explore college options. This makes the number useful for context, but unreliable as a predictor of individual outcomes.
What Drives Acceptance Rates at Universities Like University of Richmond
One major factor behind acceptance rates is applicant volume. When more students apply without fully meeting academic expectations, acceptance rates tend to rise. That doesn’t necessarily mean the university is lowering standards—it often means the applicant pool is broader.
At the same time, program-level demand plays a big role. Certain majors at University of Richmond may be far more competitive than others, which means students applying to those programs experience a different admissions reality than the overall acceptance rate suggests.
Why Students Misjudge Their Chances
Many students assume a higher acceptance rate means admissions are straightforward. In reality, admissions decisions are contextual. Coursework rigor, academic consistency, and clarity of goals often matter more than the headline acceptance rate.
The smartest way to use the acceptance rate at University of Richmond is as a planning signal. It helps students understand competitiveness at a high level, but real admissions outcomes depend on how well an applicant’s profile aligns with the university’s priorities.
Admissions Insight
Holistic Admissions? Or Score-Centric?
Some colleges love essays and activities. Some love high numbers.
Your Chances of Getting Into University of Richmond
Let’s keep it real:
- ✅ Great scores + strong extracurriculars → Solid chance
- 🔶 Good scores + average profile → Toss-up
- ❌ Below 25th percentile → You’re relying on miracles
If you’re international, competition goes up a notch. If you're applying to CS, Business, or Engineering → multiply difficulty by 2.
What's my real shot?
Acceptance Odds Estimator
Estimate your admission probability at University of Richmond based on your unique profile.
Pro Tip: Many more factors influence admission. For a deeper analysis that includes major, essays, and personal context — use Orbit's values-based matching.
Try Right Fit MatcherShould University of Richmond Be on Your College List?
By now, most students aren’t just researching out of curiosity — they’re trying to decide whether University of Richmond belongs on their final application list. That decision rarely comes down to a single metric.
Admissions competitiveness varies depending on who you are as an applicant. Some students find that their academic record aligns well with what the university typically looks for, while others may face more competition based on program choice or preparation.
Making a Balanced Application Decision
Strong applicants think in terms of balance. They include schools where they feel confident, schools that push them slightly, and schools that represent ambition. Admissions data helps place University of Richmond into one of those categories, but it doesn’t make the decision on its own.
What matters most is alignment — between your interests, academic background, and the opportunities the university offers. When that alignment exists, applying becomes a logical step rather than a risky gamble.
Should You Apply to University of Richmond?
If 22.2% feels scary — that’s the point. High stakes → high payoff.
- Will I be a standout here?
- Do I like the vibe?
- Can I afford it? (Check scholarship opportunities)
- Is this my best-fit major here?
Explore University of Richmond
Jump to related stats for this same university.
FAQs About University of Richmond Acceptance Rate
Is the University of Richmond test-optional for 2026 applicants?
Yes, the University of Richmond has a test-optional policy for fall 2026 applicants, as it adopted this approach in 2020 to promote a more holistic review of applicants.
What happens if I don't submit standardized test scores to Richmond?
If you choose not to submit standardized test scores, Richmond will still evaluate your application based on your overall academic record and achievements in other areas.
Can I change my decision about submitting test scores after applying?
Yes, applicants can change their decision regarding test score submission within a two-week window after submitting their application through the Spider Portal.
Does the University of Richmond superscore the SAT and ACT?
Yes, the University of Richmond superscores both the SAT and ACT for applicants who submit their test scores, allowing the best section scores from multiple test dates to be considered.
Will Richmond require test scores after I'm admitted?
No, once admitted, Richmond does not require test scores; the focus shifts to supporting students in their academic journey and ensuring their success.
Final Verdict: Don’t Play It Casual
University of Richmond isn’t a lottery — but it sure feels like one if you apply blind.
Know where you stand. Play strengths. Show why you belong.
Unlock Your Best Shot with Orbit
Everything you need to maximize your college application success
