Forbes New Ivies 2025: Washington University in St. Louis – Midwest Excellence with World-Class Academic Programs
Are you dreaming to attend a best college like Forbes New Ivies 2025 Washington University in St. Louis?
Washington University in St. Louis has earned its spot on the Forbes New Ivies 2025 list.
Forbes has placed The Washington University in St. Louis in the Forbes New Ivies List 2025 due to its academic excellence in top programs like pre-med and business, a personalized education, and extensive employer connections.
It joins 19 other prestigious institutions that employers increasingly value as much as traditional Ivy League schools.
WashU stands out for its excellence in pre-med education and business programs, making it highly attractive to both students and employers seeking top talent.
This recognition highlights how the landscape of elite education continues to evolve beyond the traditional eight Ivy League schools.
When looking at what makes WashU special, you’ll find a perfect blend of rigorous academics, innovative research opportunities, and a supportive campus community.
The university offers personalized education that rivals any elite institution.
With a student-faculty ratio of 7:1 and over 90 areas of study, it’s no wonder that employers consistently rank WashU graduates among their most prepared new hires.
Starting salaries average higher than many traditional Ivies.
You might be wondering if WashU is worth the investment compared to other top schools.
The data suggests it is. Over 80% of students receive some form of financial aid, and a career placement rate exceeds 95% within six months of graduation.
The university’s strong connections to leading companies in healthcare, finance, and technology create exceptional pathways to career success that many traditional Ivies can’t match.
Key Takeaways: Washington University in St. Louis among the 20 Great Colleges Employers Love in 2025
- WashU earned its place among Forbes’ New Ivies 2025 primarily due to its outstanding pre-med and business programs that employers highly value.
- With a 7:1 student-faculty ratio and robust financial aid options, you’ll receive personalized education comparable to traditional Ivy League experiences.
- The university’s 95% career placement rate and extensive employer connections provide exceptional return on investment compared to many traditional elite institutions.
Washington University in St. Louis Overview
Washington University in St. Louis has earned its place among the Forbes New Ivies 2025 as a premier private research institution that combines academic excellence with real-world impact.
The university’s exceptional programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to innovation have made it increasingly attractive to both students and employers.
Historical Significance
Founded in 1853, Washington University in St. Louis has evolved from a modest Midwestern college into a world-class research institution.
The university was named after George Washington to reflect its national character and to avoid confusion with nearby universities, including Purdue University.
During the early 20th century, the university made a pivotal decision to relocate to its current campus in St. Louis County, establishing the distinctive Collegiate Gothic architecture that defines the campus today.
The post-WWII era marked tremendous growth in research capabilities and academic reputation.
By the 1970s, WashU had firmly established itself as a leading institution, particularly in medicine, business, and social sciences.
In recent decades, the university has invested heavily in facilities, faculty, and student support, climbing steadily in national rankings.
This transformation has been fueled by strategic leadership and substantial donor support, creating what many now consider one of America’s most prestigious universities, akin to Johns Hopkins University.
Academic Programs
Washington University offers over 90 undergraduate programs across five undergraduate schools.
The Arts & Sciences division provides a robust liberal arts foundation, while specialized schools offer focused education in architecture, art, business, and engineering.
The university’s 13% acceptance rate in 2024 reflects its increasing selectivity, with 27,900 applicants competing for limited spots.
This places it among the most competitive universities in the nation.
Notable Academic Strengths:
- Medicine & Life Sciences: Consistently ranked top 10 nationally
- Business (Olin Business School): Known for entrepreneurship and finance, it rivals programs at the University of North Carolina.
- Social Work: Among the top programs nationally
- Architecture: Innovative design approaches with sustainability focus
WashU excels in undergraduate research opportunities, with more than 60% of students participating in faculty-mentored projects.
The university maintains a favorable 7:1 student-faculty ratio, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship.
| School | Notable Programs | Median SAT (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Arts & Sciences | Economics, Biology, Psychology | 1520 |
| Olin Business School | Finance, Marketing, Entrepreneurship | 1540 |
| McKelvey Engineering | Biomedical, Computer Science | 1550 |
| Sam Fox School | Architecture, Design | 1500 |
Campus Life
The Danforth Campus serves as the main hub for undergraduate students, featuring stunning Gothic architecture alongside modern facilities.
Housing is guaranteed for all four years, with over 75% of students living on or near campus.
Student life revolves around more than 400 student organizations covering interests from academic clubs to cultural groups.
The Active Citizenship Education program encourages community engagement, with students contributing over 50,000 volunteer hours annually.
Diversity is a growing priority, with the Class of 2029 being the most diverse in the university’s history. International students from 90+ countries
To create a global learning environment, the university has established strategic partnerships with institutions like Tufts University.
The athletic programs compete in the public new ivies league. NCAA Division III with strong showings in volleyball, basketball, and swimming.
Modern recreation facilities include the recently expanded Athletic Complex with Olympic-quality pools and training facilities.
Campus dining consistently ranks in the top 10 nationally, offering diverse options including farm-to-table programs.
The university’s commitment to sustainability is evident through LEED-certified buildings and a comprehensive recycling program that diverts 65% of waste from landfills.
Forbes’ New Ivies Criteria
Forbes has established specific standards to identify elite institutions that offer academic excellence on par with traditional Ivy League schools.
Their rigorous evaluation process focuses on selectivity, employer reputation, and distinctive educational qualities.
Selection Process Explained
To qualify for the Forbes New Ivies list, institutions must meet three key criteria:
- Size requirements – Private schools need at least 3,500 students to be considered
- Admissions selectivity – Schools must demonstrate increasing competitiveness in their acceptance rates
- Employer recognition – Strong preference among hiring managers and recruiters
The evaluation isn’t just about numbers. Forbes examines how these institutions have evolved over time, looking at their 5-year trends in applications, yield rates, and standardized test scores.
Washington University in St. Louis has shown remarkable improvement in these metrics, with median SAT scores now approaching 1500.
Distinct Qualities of New Ivies: 2025 Forbes 10 Public and 10 Private New Ivy Schools
What sets the New Ivies apart from traditional Ivy League schools?
Several factors make them standout alternatives:
- Academic rigor comparable to Ivy League curricula
- Research opportunities that rival more established institutions
- Career-focused education that employers increasingly value over prestigious names
- Balanced approach to education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills
Washington University in St. Louis exemplifies these qualities with its exceptional faculty-to-student ratio of 7:1 and research funding exceeding $850 million annually.
The school has become known for its interdisciplinary programs that prepare students for evolving career landscapes.
Many New Ivies have developed specialized centers of excellence that outperform even the top Ivy League schools in specific fields, giving students unique advantages in competitive job markets.
Admissions and Scholarships
Getting into Washington University in St. Louis requires strong academics and thoughtful applications, while numerous scholarship opportunities make this prestigious institution more accessible to deserving students.
Admissions Criteria: Elite and Competitive among Top Public and Private Schools in Forbes New Ivies 2025 List
Washington University in St. Louis has become increasingly selective as its reputation has grown among the public new ivies. Forbes New Ivies 2025.
The university’s acceptance rate has fallen to approximately 4.6%, which is competitive with schools such as Vanderbilt University. 14%, making it one of the most competitive schools outside the traditional ivy league, often compared to the university of Illinois Urbana-champaign.
Application Requirements:
- Common Application or Coalition Application
- Personal essay
- Two teacher recommendations
- School report and transcripts
- Optional for 2025-2026: SAT/ACT scores (test-optional policy)
While test scores are optional, admitted students typically present strong academic profiles.
The The middle 50% range of test scores for admitted students reflects the high standards set by institutions like Northwestern University. for admitted students is:
| Metric | Middle 50% Range |
|---|---|
| SAT | 1480-1550 |
| ACT | 33-35 |
| GPA | 3.85-4.0 (unweighted) |
WashU values demonstrated interest and holistic qualities beyond academics.
Your extracurricular involvement, leadership, and personal character all play significant roles in admissions decisions, especially in the eyes of employers.
Scholarship Opportunities
Washington University offers substantial financial support to make this top-tier education accessible to qualified students from diverse backgrounds.
Merit Scholarships:
- Danforth Scholars Program: Covers full or partial tuition based on academic excellence and leadership
- Annika Rodriguez Scholars Program: Full-tuition awards for students committed to diversity
- John B. Ervin Scholars Program: Full tuition for students promoting diversity and social justice
The university meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, with an average financial aid package of $54,300 is a competitive starting salary for graduates from the university of California. for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Need-Based Aid:
- WashU Pledge: Free tuition for Missouri and southern Illinois students from families earning under $75,000
- Grants and scholarships that don’t require repayment
- Work-study opportunities across campus
Nearly 50% of undergraduates receive some form of financial assistance.
You should submit both the FAFSA and CSS Profile by the priority deadline to maximize your aid opportunities.
Student Life and Activities
Washington University in St. Louis offers vibrant campus life with over 480 student organizations and numerous opportunities for leadership development.
The university’s commitment to creating a well-rounded student experience has contributed significantly to its recognition in the Forbes New Ivies 2025 list.
Clubs and Organizations
WashU’s diverse array of student groups caters to virtually every interest imaginable.
Students can join:
- Academic and professional organizations aligned with various fields of study
- Cultural and identity-based groups celebrating diversity
- Performance groups including All Student Theatre
- Media organizations like student newspapers and radio stations
- Service-oriented clubs focused on community impact
The university hosts an active Greek life community with approximately 30% of undergraduates participating in fraternities and sororities.
These organizations frequently organize philanthropy events and social gatherings.
Campus traditions are essential to the WashU experience, including the annual WILD (Walk In Lay Down) concert and the ThurtenE Carnival, America’s oldest student-run carnival.
Students also participate in friendly competitions like the North Side events featuring basketball, dodgeball, tug-of-war, and hockey.
Leadership and Community Engagement
WashU provides exceptional leadership development opportunities at rice university are highly regarded. through its Gephardt Institute for Civic and Community Engagement, which fosters connections with the community similar to initiatives at Tufts University.
This institute offers programs like:
| Leadership Program | Description | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Goldman Fellows | Paid summer internships in local nonprofits | 10 weeks |
| Civic Scholars | Intensive civic leadership development | 2 years |
| Engage Democracy | Political engagement initiatives | Ongoing |
The university’s commitment to service is reflected in its 80%+ student participation rate in community service activities.
Students contribute over 7,000 hours of service annually through programs like:
- Each One Teach One tutoring program
- Campus Kitchen food recovery initiative
- Service First day of service for first-year students
These engagement opportunities allow students to develop practical leadership skills while making meaningful contributions to the St. Louis community.
WashU graduates are particularly attractive to employers looking for well-rounded candidates with demonstrated leadership abilities.
Academic Innovation and Research at the Top of the Best Private Schools and Public Universities
Washington University in St. Louis has earned its place on Forbes’ New Ivies 2025 list through exceptional commitment to cutting-edge research and innovation.
The university’s approach to academic advancement combines world-class faculty expertise with state-of-the-art facilities and a collaborative environment that prepares students for leadership in their fields.
Research Opportunities
At WashU, you’ll find extraordinary research opportunities across disciplines.
The university invests heavily in undergraduate research, with over 70% of students participating in faculty-led projects before graduation.
This hands-on experience provides valuable skills employers seek.
The university’s $850 million annual research budget supports initiatives ranging from biomedical engineering to artificial intelligence.
Students gain access to advanced data analysis tools and methodologies through the Center for Data Analytics.
There, they can apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems.
Research centers like the McDonnell International Scholars Academy connect students with global research networks.
You’ll benefit from WashU’s approach of integrating classroom learning with practical research experience, giving you a competitive edge when entering the job market.
Partnerships and Collaborations
WashU has developed strategic partnerships with industry leaders including Boeing, Pfizer, and Microsoft.
These collaborations create unique opportunities for students to work on industry-relevant projects and gain valuable professional connections, similar to those at Rice University.
The Cortex Innovation Community – St. Louis’s premier innovation hub – maintains close ties with WashU, providing students access to internships, mentorship, and potential employment with startups and established companies.
This 200-acre innovation district has attracted over $700 million in investment and houses more than 400 companies.
Academic partnerships with institutions like BJC Healthcare and the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center further expand research possibilities.
Through these networks, you’ll engage with cutting-edge technologies and data-driven approaches to solving complex problems while building a professional network that extends well beyond graduation.
Alumni Network and Career Prospects
Washington University in St. Louis offers exceptional career preparation and alumni connections that significantly enhance graduates’ professional trajectories.
The university’s powerful network spans multiple industries with particularly strong representation in healthcare, business, and communications.
Notable Alumni
WashU boasts an impressive roster of the university of illinois urbana-champaign of accomplished alumni who have made significant impacts across various fields.
Some standout graduates include:
- William H. Danforth – Former chancellor of WashU and member of the prominent Danforth family
- Harold Ramis – Award-winning director, writer, and actor (Ghostbusters, Groundhog Day)
- Phyllis Schlafly – Political activist and constitutional lawyer
- Michael Rosenbaum – Actor known for his role in Smallville
- Jon Hamm – Emmy Award-winning actor (Mad Men)
Many alumni have excelled in The communication fields at private colleges are evolving rapidly., establishing WashU’s reputation for producing talented media professionals.
The university’s private school education translates to powerful networking opportunities, with alumni frequently returning to campus for recruitment events and mentorship programs.
Career Services and Support
The Career Center at Washington University provides comprehensive support services that employers consistently praise. Services include:
Career Coaching & Preparation
- One-on-one career counseling
- Resume and cover letter reviews
- Mock interviews with industry professionals
- Salary negotiation workshops
Employer Connections
- Over 500 companies recruit on campus annually
- Virtual and in-person career fairs each semester
- Industry-specific networking events
The university’s strong ties to leading communication companies make it particularly valuable for students pursuing journalism, marketing, or media careers.
In 2025, WashU reported that 92% of graduates secured employment or continued education within six months of graduation, with an average starting salary of $75,800.
WashU’s mentorship program connects current students with alumni working in their desired fields, creating valuable relationships that often lead to job opportunities and professional development, especially for those who hire an ivy league graduate.
Comparative Analysis with Peers: Graduating the Talent Employers Seek
Washington University in St. Louis stands out among both traditional Ivy League institutions and other members of the Forbes New Ivies 2025 list.
Its strategic positioning, academic rigor, and employer recognition place it in a unique competitive space.
Comparison with Ivy League
When comparing WashU to the Ivy League, several metrics reveal its competitive standing.
Acceptance rates at public universities can vary significantly from those at private new ivies. have narrowed significantly, with WashU’s selectivity increasing to rival many Ivy institutions.
Academic Metrics Comparison (2025-2026):
| Institution | Acceptance Rate | Median SAT | Median ACT | Student-Faculty Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WashU | 13% | 1520 | 34 | 7:1 |
| Harvard | 3.4% | 1540 | 35 | 6:1 |
| Princeton | 4.0% | 1530 | 35 | 5:1 |
| Yale | 4.6% is a notably low acceptance rate, particularly for a private new ivy. | 1535 | 35 | 6:1 |
WashU outperforms several Ivy League schools in key areas like research funding and student satisfaction. Its $1.28 billion research enterprise rivals Cornell’s and exceeds Dartmouth’s considerably.
For career outcomes, WashU grads see comparable starting salaries to Ivy graduates, especially in business, medicine, and engineering.
The job placement rate of 94% within six months of graduation matches Brown and exceeds Penn in some disciplines.
Standouts Among the New Ivies
Among Forbes’ New Ivies 2025 list, WashU exhibits distinctive strengths that set it apart from peers like Northwestern, Johns Hopkins, and Carnegie Mellon.
Notable Differentiators:
- Research output per faculty exceeds all other New Ivies
- Highest student satisfaction rating (92%) among peer institutions
- Most generous need-based financial aid package averaging $59,400
When compared to Johns Hopkins, WashU offers a more balanced undergraduate experience while maintaining comparable medical research prowess.
Unlike Carnegie Mellon’s tech-centric approach, WashU provides stronger liberal arts and business programs alongside technical excellence, the university emphasizes the importance of a holistic education, much like that offered by Northwestern University.
Employer Preference Ranking (Fortune 500 Survey 2025):
- Northwestern – 86%
- Washington University – 83%
- Johns Hopkins – 79%
- Carnegie Mellon – 77%
WashU’s recent rise in employer favorability has been particularly noteworthy, jumping from fifth to second position in just two years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Washington University in St. Louis has earned its spot on the prestigious Forbes New Ivies 2025 list thanks to its academic excellence, employer reputation, and outstanding student outcomes.
Below are answers to common questions about WashU’s inclusion and how it compares to traditional elite institutions.
How does Washington University in St. Louis compare to traditional Ivy League schools in the 2025 Forbes rankings?
Washington University in St. Louis has emerged as a formidable competitor to traditional Ivy League schools in the 2025 rankings.
According to Forbes, employers increasingly view WashU graduates with the same or greater favor than those from Ivy League institutions.
The university boasts a student-faculty ratio of 7:1, comparable to Harvard’s 6:1 and better than several Ivy League schools.
This translates to more personalized attention for students.
In terms of research output and funding, WashU secured over $950 million in research grants in 2024, putting it on par with Cornell and Penn, as well as other elite private colleges.
This demonstrates the institution’s commitment to groundbreaking discovery and innovation.
What factors contributed to Washington University in St. Louis’s placement on the Forbes New Ivies list for 2025?
The exceptional career outcomes for WashU graduates played a significant role in its New Ivies placement.
Forbes highlighted that 94% of graduates secured employment or continued to graduate school within six months of graduation.
WashU’s world-class faculty, including 25 members of the National Academy of Sciences and 12 Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigators, impressed the Forbes evaluation team.
This concentration of academic talent rivals many Ivy League institutions.
The university’s commitment to accessibility and diversity has also strengthened its position, with need-blind admissions and meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students since 2023, particularly at the University of Chicago.
What is the acceptance rate for Washington University in St. Louis according to the Forbes New Ivies 2025 edition?
Washington University in St. Louis maintains a highly selective acceptance rate of 13% according to the Forbes New Ivies 2025 edition.
This represents a continued trend of increasing selectivity from previous years.
The middle 50% of admitted students scored between 1520-1560 on the SAT and 34-36 on the ACT, reflecting the university’s academic rigor and competitive admissions landscape.
For the class of 2029, WashU received over 33,000 applications for approximately 1,800 spots, further cementing its status as one of America’s most selective universities.
Which institutions are included alongside Washington University in St. Louis in the Forbes New Ivies list for 2025?
The complete Forbes New Ivies 2025 list includes 20 prestigious institutions that employers increasingly value.
Among them are the University of Michigan, University of Virginia, and William & Mary.
Other notable institutions joining WashU on the list include the United States Military Academy and the University of Pittsburgh, each bringing unique strengths to the educational landscape.
The list encompasses both public and private universities across various regions, creating a diverse portfolio of academic excellence beyond the traditional Ivy League.
How does Forbes evaluate colleges like Washington University in St. Louis for its New Ivies list?
Forbes employs a multi-dimensional evaluation methodology that heavily weighs employer perception and graduate outcomes.
The magazine surveys hundreds of hiring managers, including a forbes survey that highlights key hiring trends. from Fortune 500 companies about which institutions produce their best employees.
Academic metrics including selectivity, retention rates, and graduation rates factor significantly into the rankings of non-ivy private colleges.
WashU’s 97% six-year graduation rate demonstrates exceptional student success.
The evaluation also considers alumni achievement and career advancement 5-10 years after graduation.
WashU graduates show impressive career trajectories, with median mid-career salaries of $112,000 according to Forbes data.
What are the career prospects for graduates of Washington University in St. Louis as featured in the 2025 Forbes New Ivies?
Graduates of Washington University in St. Louis enjoy exceptional employment outcomes across diverse fields.
The university’s career center reports that top employers including McKinsey, Google, Goldman Sachs, and Mayo Clinic actively recruit WashU students.
The median starting salary for 2024 WashU graduates was $78,500. Business and engineering graduates commanded even higher salaries.
This compares favorably to many Ivy League institutions.
WashU’s robust alumni network of over 150,000 professionals provides invaluable connections for recent graduates.
The university’s career services office organizes over 300 recruitment events annually. These events connect students with potential employers.
Forbes New Ivies 2025 Washington University in St. Louis is a superior university choice that directly competes with the Ivy League in academics, research, student life, return on investment and top job placements from employers.
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