US University · Ranked #49
University of Pittsburgh: Acceptance Rate & Admission Requirements (2026)
University of Pittsburgh is a moderately selective university in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, admitting around 57% of those who apply. Ranked #49 nationally in our dataset, it rewards students who meet its academic benchmarks and submit a complete, on-time application — the bar is attainable for solid candidates and the process is more forgiving than at the most selective schools.
Pitt is a leading public research university in Pittsburgh known for its top-ranked medical center, strong philosophy department, and vibrant urban campus.
This guide breaks down University of Pittsburgh's selectivity, the academic profile of admitted students, how its application deadlines should shape your strategy, and the programs it is best known for — followed by answers to the questions applicants ask most.
University of Pittsburgh admission statistics
- Acceptance rate
- 57%
- SAT range
- 1220–1420
- Average GPA
- 3.7
- In-state
- $20,220
- Out-of-state
- $37,332
- Enrollment
- 24,936
- Type
- Public
- Location
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
How hard is it to get into University of Pittsburgh?
With 57% of applicants admitted, University of Pittsburgh is moderately selective. The school admits the majority of students who meet its academic benchmarks, so the most common reasons for denial are an incomplete application, missing the deadline, or numbers that fall below the published ranges. Hitting the academic targets and applying on time is most of the battle.
For students who meet the numbers, University of Pittsburgh is a target-to-likely school. Double-check that every required component is submitted before the deadline — completeness matters more than polish at this level.
Academic profile of admitted students
Admitted students at University of Pittsburgh typically score between 1220 and 1420 on the SAT — this is the middle 50% range, so a quarter of enrolled students scored below 1220 and a quarter above 1420. A score at or above 1420 is competitive even at the more selective end of the pool. Alongside test scores, the average GPA of admitted students is approximately 3.7 on a 4.0 scale, indicating that successful applicants generally earned mostly A's in a rigorous course load.
As a planning benchmark, aim for an SAT around 1320 or higher and a GPA at or near 3.7. Scores meaningfully below the 25th percentile (1220) are not disqualifying on their own, but they put more weight on the rest of the application to compensate.
University of Pittsburghapplication deadlines & strategy
- • Regular Decision: Rolling
University of Pittsburgh uses rolling admissions rather than a single fixed deadline: applications are reviewed as they arrive and decisions are released on a continuous basis until the class fills. The strategic implication is simple — apply as early as you reasonably can. Waiting reduces the number of remaining seats and, at some schools, the financial aid and housing still available.
Because review is continuous, prioritize accuracy and completeness over a long polishing cycle: a complete application submitted early generally beats a marginally better one submitted late.
Notable programs at University of Pittsburgh
- Medicine — a clinical pathway with prerequisite coursework and, in some cases, separate admission.
- Philosophy — a flagship humanities strength here.
- Engineering — typically a more selective track with specific math and science prerequisites.
- Business — often admitted directly into a named school with its own requirements.
- Nursing — a clinical pathway with prerequisite coursework and, in some cases, separate admission.
University of Pittsburgh is particularly known for Medicine, Philosophy, Engineering, Business, and Nursing.
Strong programs matter for admissions because many schools admit by college or major, and a credible, specific interest in one of these areas — reflected in your coursework, activities, and essays — is far more persuasive than a generic application.
Cost of attending University of Pittsburgh
As a public institution with separate in-state and out-of-state tuition, University of Pittsburgh costs significantly less for Pennsylvania residents: in-state tuition is about $20,220 per year versus roughly $37,332 for out-of-state students — a difference of around $17,112 annually. If you are not a Pennsylvania resident, factor the higher rate into your list, and check whether the school offers merit scholarships or regional exchange programs that narrow the gap.
Tuition is only part of the cost — add room, board, fees, and personal expenses for a realistic total — but the in-state advantage makes University of Pittsburgh an especially strong value for state residents.
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University of Pittsburgh: frequently asked questions
- What is the acceptance rate at University of Pittsburgh?
- University of Pittsburgh has an acceptance rate of 57%, which makes it moderately selective. For students who meet the numbers, University of Pittsburgh is a target-to-likely school. Double-check that every required component is submitted before the deadline — completeness matters more than polish at this level.
- What SAT score do you need for University of Pittsburgh?
- Admitted students at University of Pittsburgh typically score between 1220 and 1420 on the SAT (the middle 50%). Aiming for 1420 or above makes you competitive, while a score below 1220 puts more weight on the rest of your application.
- What GPA do you need to get into University of Pittsburgh?
- The average GPA of admitted students at University of Pittsburgh is approximately 3.7 on a 4.0 scale. Competitive applicants generally have mostly A's in a rigorous course load; a GPA at or near 3.7 is the practical target.
- What is the application deadline for University of Pittsburgh?
- University of Pittsburgh uses rolling admissions, reviewing applications as they arrive rather than by a single deadline. Apply as early as you can — seats, aid, and housing diminish over the cycle.
- Is University of Pittsburgh a public or private university?
- University of Pittsburgh is a public university. In-state students from Pennsylvania pay significantly less than out-of-state students.
- How much does it cost to attend University of Pittsburgh?
- As a public institution with separate in-state and out-of-state tuition, University of Pittsburgh costs significantly less for Pennsylvania residents: in-state tuition is about $20,220 per year versus roughly $37,332 for out-of-state students — a difference of around $17,112 annually. If you are not a Pennsylvania resident, factor the higher rate into your list, and check whether the school offers merit scholarships or regional exchange programs that narrow the gap.