
Saint Louis, MOprivate nonprofitwww.slu.edu/
Saint Louis University (SLU) is a mid-sized Jesuit university in St. Louis, Missouri, known for its strong pre-med and STEM programs, intimate 9:1 student-faculty ratio, and urban campus with a tight-knit community vibe. With a 75% acceptance rate and an average SAT range of 1130–1340, SLU attracts academically solid students who value its Jesuit emphasis on service and ethical leadership. The school shines in health sciences (its medical school is the oldest west of the Mississippi) and offers a lively campus life with 200+ student organizations.
SLU is moderately selective, with a 75% acceptance rate (sources vary slightly, with some reporting 58-75%). The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1130-1340 on the SAT or 23-31 on the ACT, with 69% of enrollees holding a GPA of 3.75+. Test-optionalA policy where you choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you don't, the rest of your application carries more weight. since at least 2021, the university emphasizes Holistic admissionsA review that weighs the whole applicant — grades, essays, activities, and context — rather than relying on test scores and GPA alone., evaluating extracurricular involvement and essays alongside academics. The application portal is via [slu.edu/apply](https://slu.edu/apply), with no mention of ED/EDII restrictions.
SLU’s 9:1 student-faculty ratio and 88% freshman retention rate reflect its focus on undergraduate attention. The Jesuit mission permeates the curriculum, requiring courses in theology and ethics. Standout programs include:
Students describe a collaborative (not cutthroat) culture, with professors who are "academically competent and ethically focused" (per SLU’s academic page).
SLU’s urban campus blends Gothic architecture with modern amenities like the Busch Student Center. Key aspects:
SLU reports a 72-80% 6-year graduation rate (depending on cohort), outperforming national averages. Alumni outcomes include:
SLU’s sticker price is ~$50K/year, but 64% of students receive aid, reducing the average net cost to $30,911. Merit scholarships (e.g., the King Scholarship, $3K+/year) reward GPA and leadership. The Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator ([slu.studentaidcalculator.com](https://slu.studentaidcalculator.com/)) helps estimate aid, though packages often include loans.
SLU merges Jesuit values with urban opportunities, offering: 1. Health sciences edge: Rare undergraduate access to a top-tier medical school and affiliated hospitals. 2. Global focus: Campus ministries and study abroad programs (e.g., Madrid campus) emphasize "men and women for others." 3. St. Louis synergy: Partnerships with Cortex tech hub and nonprofits provide internships and service learning.
Downsides? Some students cite limited name recognition outside the Midwest and patchy neighborhood safety. But for those seeking a mid-sized, mission-driven university with strong pre-professional roots, SLU delivers.