What's the acceptance rate for UMass Amherst?

I'm looking into applying to UMass Amherst and want to know their acceptance rate. Does anyone know if they are more lenient with in-state students? I'd appreciate any advice on making my application stand out!

The acceptance rate for the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst) has varied in recent years, falling between roughly 60-64%. As a state-supported public institution, UMass Amherst does give preference to in-state students, and accept a higher percentage of students from Massachusetts compared to out-of-state.

If your goal is to make your application stand out, focusing on your academic strengths is paramount, as about 77% of the school's admitted students have high school GPAs of 3.75 or higher. However, strong academic performance shouldn't be your only focus. You should also highlight your leadership, achievements, and commitment within your extracurricular activities. If you have plenty of involvement in a select few activities (those that fall under Tier 1-2 in the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars), and clearly demonstrate your passion for them, that could potentially give your application a boost.

Furthermore, an enlightening and captivating personal essay can make a great difference. Ensure that the essay is personal, unique, and reveals something about you that isn't present anywhere else in your applications. Try to avoid cliché topics, and instead concentrate on a specific event or aspect of your life that has had a profound impact on your growth or perspectives.

Remember, admissions officers want to see applicants who can contribute positively to their campus community and demonstrate potential for future success, whether that's in academics, extracurricular activities, or personal growth. Best of luck with your application!