Willamette University

Willamette University's tuition is approximately $48,000 per year, but 100% of students receive financial aid, with the average total aid awarded being $34,396. Merit-based scholarships start at $22,000 per year, making the university accessible to a wide range of students. Willamette proves college is worth it with internships, job offers, and graduate school acceptances.

Willamette University has a somewhat competitive admissions process with an acceptance rate of 79%. The university is Common Application-exclusive and test-optional, with all applicants automatically considered for merit-based scholarships. They look for students with a strong academic record, as the average high school GPA for enrolled freshmen is 3.96.

Willamette University offers a collaborative learning environment with small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1. Professors are dedicated to teaching and mentoring, fostering close connections with students. The university emphasizes experiential education, encouraging students to turn knowledge into action through research, internships, and community engagement.

Willamette University emphasizes real-world experiences, leading to strong career outcomes for its graduates. A new $2 million Career Center helps students explore options, try out careers through internships and research, and connect with alumni. Graduates find employment at companies like Boeing, Microsoft, and Nike, as well as in government and non-profit sectors.

Willamette University offers a close-knit community where students form strong friendships due to the small campus size. The campus culture is more academically focused, with a wide array of clubs, sports, fraternities, and sororities. Students appreciate the supportive social atmosphere and the beauty of the campus in downtown Salem.

Willamette University prioritizes campus safety with 24/7 security services. Campus Safety officers patrol the grounds and work closely with local law enforcement. The university provides educational programs, emergency telephones, and a student-led emergency medical service to ensure a safe environment for students, faculty, and staff.

Willamette University offers numerous opportunities for faculty-student collaborative research, including more than 75 competitive undergraduate research grants annually. Students can participate in scholarly projects, present their research at conferences, and gain valuable critical thinking and analytical skills. Carson Grants and the Lilly Project also provide unique research and professional development opportunities.

Willamette University provides global partnerships in more than 40 countries, with over 40 percent of undergraduates earning credit abroad. The campus is co-located with Tokyo International University of America, offering opportunities for students interested in Japanese language and culture. The university also provides visa services and support for international students.