Brandeis University is a prestigious private research university located in Waltham, Massachusetts, United States. Established in 1948, it was named after Louis D. Brandeis, the first Jewish Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. The university has gained recognition for its academic excellence, commitment to social justice, and vibrant intellectual community.
Brandeis University was founded with a noble purpose – to provide an inclusive educational environment for individuals facing discrimination in higher education, including Jews, ethnic and racial minorities, and women. Our visionary founders sought to establish a research university that would transcend sectarian boundaries and embrace individuals from diverse backgrounds and beliefs. While nurturing a pioneering research enterprise, Brandeis placed significant emphasis on undergraduate education.
At the heart of Brandeis lies a profound connection to Jewish history and experience, which serves as a powerful source of inspiration. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not mere buzzwords at Brandeis – they are the very essence of who they are. These values drive the university to continually strive for growth and make a positive impact within the local community and on a global scale. The university fosters an environment that celebrates and embraces the unique perspectives and contributions of every individual.
Location
Brandeis University is situated in Waltham, Massachusetts, just 9 miles from Boston. The picturesque and vibrant campus is spread across 235 acres. The campus features modern and architecturally striking buildings, lush green spaces, and state-of-the-art facilities. The students at Brandeis experience a perfect balance between an idyllic suburban setting and urban resources. Students also benefit from easy access to diverse cultural opportunities and internships.
The campus is divided into two main areas: the East Campus and the West Campus. The East Campus is home to a majority of academic buildings, including the Usdan Student Center, the Golding Health Center, and the Bernstein-Marcus Administration Center. The West Campus is home to a majority of the residential halls, as well as the Shapiro Athletic Center and the Brodsky Center for the Arts.
The campus is known for its beautiful architecture, which includes a mix of modern and traditional buildings. The campus is also home to a variety of green spaces, including the Rosenthal Quad, the Kresge Oval, and the Slosberg Arboretum. Brandeis provides an inspiring environment for learning, artistic expression, and personal growth.
Student Cohort Size
Brandeis University has a total student population of 5,440 students with 3,591 undergraduate students. 70% of the student population represents out-of-state students and 20% of students are international students. The international students represent 58 countries.
Graduation Rate
Brandeis University has a 90% retention rate. This implies that 90% of freshmen students returned to continue their studies in their sophomore year. 81% of students graduate within 4 years and 89% of students graduate within 6 years.
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
The student-to-faculty ratio at Brandeis University is 10:1. 61% of its classes have fewer than 19 students.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Brandeis University has an acceptance rate of 39%. The university received 9,796 applicants and 943 students enrolled in the Class of 2026.
Acceptance GPA
Brandeis University accepts students who are among the top students in the class. The accepted students have a GPA greater than 3.83.
Types of Admissions
The student can apply to Brandies University through their ED I, Early Decision II, and Regular Decision programs. Early Decision is a binding program. The students who decide to apply for the Early Decision cycles must commit to Brandeis University if accepted.
Application Components
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A completed Common Application.
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$80 application fee
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Official copies of all high school transcripts. Transcripts must include official grades from all years of secondary school.
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A school report and a letter of recommendation from a secondary school official.
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High School Senior Grades: Send your senior midyear grades as soon as they become available. For Early Decision applicants, submit first marking period grades, which may be first-quarter or first-trimester grades.
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A letter of recommendation from a teacher who has instructed you in a core academic course (math, science, history, foreign language, or English).
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Optional standardized test scores. Students that get into Brandeis have an average SAT score between 1370-1530 or an average ACT score of 31-34.
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A completed Early Decision Agreement Form. If you’re applying for Early Decision I or Early Decision II.
Academics
At Brandeis University, students have the opportunity to select from an extensive range of majors across four disciplines: the creative arts, humanities, sciences, and social sciences. The faculty members get the opportunity to collaborate with various departments as a part of the interdisciplinary programs. Nearly half of undergraduate students embark on a double major, often combining fields that lie at opposite ends of the academic spectrum. Moreover, students have the option to pursue up to three majors. This enables them to delve deeper into multiple areas of interest and expand their intellectual horizons.
Most Popular Majors
Economics
Biology
Public Policy Analysis
Business
Computer Science
Research and Experimental Psychology
International Studies
Neuroscience and Neurobiology
Political Science and Government
Computational and Applied Mathematics
Student Life
Brandeis has more than 200 student-run clubs and organizations, including service organizations, cultural awareness groups, performing groups, spiritual and religious groups, sports and games clubs, student leadership and activism groups, student publications, a television station (BTV), and a radio station (WBRS).
Among these student organizations, the Undergraduate Student Union is the student governmental body that advocates for students and provides club support. It is comprised of an Executive Board, the Union Senate, the Allocations Board, and the University Judiciary.
Cost of Attendance
| Description of Fee | Living On Campus | Living Off Campus | Living with Family |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition (full-time, 12-23 credits each semester) | $67,082* | $67,082* | $67,082* |
| Student Activity Fee (mandatory) | $598* | $598* | $598* |
| Housing | $11,960* (average of all housing options on campus; first-years reside in double rooms, which cost $10,600) | $8,955 ($995 per month for rent and utilities; can document higher actual costs) | $450 |
| Food | $7,984* (All Access +5 Plan) | $4,358 (90 block plan plus $223/month off-campus grocery funds OR $484/month for off-campus grocery funds) | $2,758 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,000 | $1,000 | $1,000 |
| Personal Expenses | $1,200 | $1,200 | $1,200 |
| Travel | Varies | Varies | $900 |
| Total | $89,824** | $83,193** | $73,988** |
*An asterisk indicates a billed expense in each scenario. All other expenses are unbilled and are used to determine financial aid eligibility and to inform your personal budgeting.
In conclusion, Brandeis University is a renowned institution known for its academic excellence, commitment to social justice, and vibrant intellectual community. It provides a stimulating and inclusive environment where students can pursue their passions, engage in research, and make a positive impact on society.
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