Wellesley's Class of 2017 an Impressive and Diverse Group of Future Leaders

Wellesley, Mass., March 28, 2013 – Wellesley College received a record number of applications for the Class of 2017. The leading liberal arts institution received 4,794 applications and admitted just 28 percent, for the College’s most selective admittance rate in more than 30 years.

In a year of record-setting numbers, Wellesley also saw the largest Early Decision pool to date. Approximately 22 percent of students expected to enroll in the Class of 2017 will have come through the Early Decision admission plan.

“The interest in the early program is a strong indication that Wellesley is among the very top choices, if not the top choice, for more and more talented young women,” said Dean of Admission and Financial Aid Jennifer Desjarlais.

Wellesley saw continued increases in the diversity and quality of applicants as well. The applicant pool included increases across all regions of the United States and continued growth from international candidates. Admitted students hail from 46 states plus the District of Columbia, and represent 40 nations of citizenship. Further, approximately 10 percent of the admitted students are international citizens. Forty-one percent identify as ALANA (African American, Latina, Native American and Asian American).

Wellesley employs a unique approach to the admissions process. The Board of Admission, a carefully selected group comprising faculty members, students, and admission staff, evaluates each applicant to determine her overall “fit” with Wellesley. In making this evaluation, the Board thoughtfully considers and discusses the academic qualifications and personal accomplishments of each potential member of the Class of 2017. Student members of the Board are selected into their positions by a process of College Government, and faculty members are appointed by a committee of their peers of the College’s Academic Council.

“The admitted students are an outstanding and impressive group of young women who truly exemplify Wellesley’s mission to educate women who will make a difference in the world,” Desjarlais said. “We look forward to welcoming the Class of 2017, and their many talents, this fall.”

About Wellesley College
Since 1875, Wellesley College has been the preeminent liberal arts college for women. Known for its intellectual rigor and its remarkable track record for the cultivation of women leaders in every arena, Wellesley—only 12 miles from Boston—is home to some 2,300 undergraduates from every state and 75 countries.

Press Contacts

Sofiya Cabalquinto, Director, Media Relations, scabalqu@wellesley.edu, 781-283-3321
Anne Yu, Assistant Director, Media Relations, ayu@wellesley.edu, 781-283-3201