Brandeis University
415 South Street, Waltham, MA 02453
Brandeis University is a private research university located in Waltham, Massachusetts, just outside Boston, known for its strong commitment to academic excellence, social justice, and intellectual inquiry. Founded in 1948, Brandeis was established with a mission of openness and inclusion and is named after U.S. Supreme Court Justice Louis D. Brandeis. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in the arts and sciences, social sciences, business, and international studies, with particular strengths in research and interdisciplinary learning. Brandeis emphasizes small class sizes, close faculty-student relationships, and active engagement in research, encouraging students to think critically and make a positive impact on the world.
- Academic Focus: Strong programs in liberal arts, sciences, social sciences, business, and international studies
- Research Classification: R1 – Very High Research Activity
- Campus Size: Around 235 acres
- Athletics: Brandeis Judges, NCAA Division III
- Distinctive Strengths: Emphasis on social justice, interdisciplinary learning, and undergraduate research
Key Dates
- August 1, 2025: Application for Fall 2026 admission opens.
- August 27, 2025: Fall 2025 Classes Begin.
- November 1, 2025: Early Decision I Application Deadline.
- December 15, 2025: Early Decision I notifications released.
- January 2, 2026: Early Decision II and Regular Decision Deadline.
- February 1, 2026: Early Decision II notifications released.
- April 1, 2026: Regular Decision notifications released.
- May 1, 2026: National Enrollment Deposit Deadline.
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate
- GPA & Coursework: Successful candidates typically complete 4 years of English, 3 of Math, 3 of Social Sciences, 3 of Science, and 3 of a Foreign Language.
- Test-Optional: Brandeis has a long-standing test-optional policy for SAT/ACT scores.
- Documents: Common App, official high school transcript, School Report, counselor recommendation, and one teacher recommendation from a core academic subject.
- English Proficiency: International applicants must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo (DET) scores if English is not their native language.
Graduate
- Requirements: Vary by school (Arts & Sciences, Heller, Business). Generally require transcripts, 2–3 letters of recommendation, CV/Resume, and a Statement of Purpose.
- Standardized Tests: GRE/GMAT requirements are program-specific; many programs at the Heller School and IBS have moved toward test-optional or waiver-based models.
| Program Level | Annual Cost of Attendance |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $70,000.00 - $93,000.00 |
| Graduate | $51,000.00 - $88,000.00 |
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate
- GPA & Coursework: Successful candidates typically complete 4 years of English, 3 of Math, 3 of Social Sciences, 3 of Science, and 3 of a Foreign Language.
- Test-Optional: Brandeis has a long-standing test-optional policy for SAT/ACT scores.
- Documents: Common App, official high school transcript, School Report, counselor recommendation, and one teacher recommendation from a core academic subject.
- English Proficiency: International applicants must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo (DET) scores if English is not their native language.
Graduate
- Requirements: Vary by school (Arts & Sciences, Heller, Business). Generally require transcripts, 2–3 letters of recommendation, CV/Resume, and a Statement of Purpose.
- Standardized Tests: GRE/GMAT requirements are program-specific; many programs at the Heller School and IBS have moved toward test-optional or waiver-based models.
| Level | Web Page | Download |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | View Programs | — |
| Graduate | View Programs | — |