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Emory University

Overview

Emory University

Nestled in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, Emory University stands as a beacon of academic excellence and cultural diversity. Established in 1836, Emory boasts a storied history intertwined with innovation and progress and continues to rank as one of the best colleges in the United States. Renowned for its commitment to scholarship and service, the university offers a dynamic array of undergraduate and graduate programs across nine schools, encompassing fields from liberal arts to business, medicine to law. Emory’s vibrant campus life reflects its dedication to fostering a sense of community and intellectual curiosity among its diverse student body. With a backdrop of Atlanta’s bustling metropolis, students at Emory have unparalleled opportunities for experiential learning, cultural exploration, and personal growth. Whether engaging in groundbreaking research, participating in community service initiatives, or pursuing artistic endeavors, Emory students are empowered to shape their own educational journey and make a lasting impact on the world.

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Emory University Academics

At Emory University, academic excellence is at the forefront of its mission, reflected in its highly competitive acceptance rate of 11%. With a student body comprising 52% undergraduates and 48% graduate students, Emory offers a diverse and vibrant learning environment where students engage in rigorous scholarship across a wide range of disciplines. Emory offers two academic pathways for entering freshmen – students can begin their academic experience at either Emory College of Arts and Sciences or Oxford College. The College of Arts and Sciences is in Atlanta while Oxford College is located 38 miles east in Oxford, GA. Oxford College’s small campus focuses on freshmen and sophomores, and it emphasizes liberal arts and experiential learning. After two years in Oxford, students move to the Atlanta campus to complete their academic majors. The university’s commitment to personalized education is evident in its impressive student-faculty ratio of 9:1, ensuring that students benefit from close mentorship and individualized attention from renowned faculty members.

The student/faculty ratio at Emory University is 9:1 and 58% of classes have 20 students or fewer.

Emory University Undergraduate Colleges:

  • College of Arts and Sciences
  • Oxford College
  • Goizueta Business School
  • Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing

Emory University Popular Majors:

  • Business Administration
  • Nursing
  • Biology
  • Econometrics
  • Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology

Emory University Notable or Distinct Majors:

  • Anthropology and Human Biology
  • Human Health
  • Philosophy, Politics, and Law
  • Emory offers several unique joint majors: English & History; Economics & Computer Science; Economics & Human Health; Mathematics & Political Science; etc.

Unique Academic Opportunities at Emory:

  • Emory is part of the ARCHE group, meaning students can take classes at Georgia Tech, Agnes Scott College, Georgia State, Spelman College, and other member institutions.
  • The Emory Scholars Program provides select undergraduate students with generous scholarships, mentorship, and access to exclusive seminars and events.
  • Emory’s partnership with nearby institutions such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Carter Center offers students unparalleled access to real-world learning experiences in public health, global development, and social justice.
  • Emory’s robust study abroad programs provide students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in diverse cultures and perspectives, fostering global citizenship and cross-cultural understanding.

Emory University Admissions

Emory University Application Details:

  • Emory University continues not to require standardized test scores from applicants. According to recent reports, the 75th percentile SAT score of an admitted student was 1550, and the 75th percentile composite ACT score was 34.
  • The Common Application is accepted at Emory University.
  • A personal statement or personal essay is part of the Common App.
  • Emory asks prospective students to submit additional supplemental essays in response to two school-specific prompts. One question is typically academic-focused while the other question is more about getting to know an applicant as a person.
  • Students must submit a counselor recommendation, mid-year report, and school report.
  • First-year applicants must submit at two teacher recommendations with their application.
  • Emory does not offer evaluative interviews with admission staff or alumni.

Emory University Application Deadlines

Early Decision
Nov 1
Regular Decision
Jan 1
Fall Transfer
Mar 15

Class Profile

Emory University Demographics (2023-2024):

  • Asian students: 24%
  • Black Students: 9%
  • Hispanic Students: 11%
  • White students: 33%
  • International students: 17%
  • First-generation college students: 8%
  • 57% women; 43% men

Life in Atlanta

Emory University’s main campus is nestled in the picturesque neighborhood of Druid Hills, just a 20-minute drive from downtown Atlanta. This proximity allows students to easily explore the city’s vibrant cultural scene, from world-class museums and theaters to eclectic neighborhoods and bustling markets. Emory Village, located adjacent to campus, provides convenient access to a variety of dining options, essential amenities, and recreational activities that enhance Emory students’ experiences. Further, Atlanta’s sprawling Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport lies approximately 40 minutes away, making travel accessible for students eager to travel. Whether immersing themselves in the academic pursuits at Emory or venturing out to discover the myriad attractions of Atlanta, college students here enjoy a rich and fulfilling lifestyle.

  • Relax and unwind in Piedmont Park, Atlanta’s largest public park. Enjoy the countless walking trails, sports fields, and scenic views of the city skyline.
  • Take a stroll or bike ride along the urban BeltLine trail, which connects neighborhoods, parks, and public art installations.
  • Visit the charming historic Decatur Square filled with boutique shops, cozy cafes, and local eateries.
  • Enjoy Atlanta’s mild climate, with mild winters and warm summers, perfect for outdoor activities year-round.

Emory University Campus Life:

With a total undergraduate enrollment of around 7,000 students, Emory balances intimacy and opportunity. Greek life is prominent, providing avenues for social engagement and community involvement, but it’s only one aspect of the rich tapestry of campus culture. Emory fosters a culture of academic excellence, where students are encouraged to pursue their passions and engage in interdisciplinary exploration. The campus boasts a mix of academic and athletic pursuits, with students participating in a wide range of extracurricular activities including niche academic clubs, art and theater groups, and varsity sports teams. The type of student who excels at Emory is one who values academic rigor, embraces diversity, and seeks to make a positive impact on the world through their studies and extracurricular involvement.

Emory University Social Activities:

  • A shuttle and bus system can transport students throughout the city or to downtown Decatur.
  • Emory has approximately 24% of its students involved in fraternities and sororities.
  • Emory has a nature inspired campus, so students like to explore nearby Lullwater Nature Preserve, Hahns Woods, and Candler Lake.
  • Take advantage of outdoor adventure trips and workshops offered through Emory’s outdoor program, including hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, and camping.
  • Participate in a variety of recreational sports leagues and tournaments, including basketball, soccer, flag football, and volleyball, for both competitive and casual players.

Emory University Traditions:

  • Dooley’s Week is an annual campus-wide celebration featuring a variety of events, including concerts, comedy shows, and outdoor activities, all in honor of Emory’s unofficial mascot, Dooley.
  • Songfest is a beloved tradition where student organizations compete in a singing and dancing competition, showcasing their creativity and school spirit.
  • The Clairmont Carnival is an entertaining carnival held at Emory’s Clairmont Campus, featuring carnival games, rides, food trucks, and live performances, providing a fun-filled day for students to unwind and socialize.

Emory University Housing and Dorms:

  • All students are required to live on campus for their first two years.
  • Two-thirds of students live on campus.
  • Themed houses are available.
  • Single rooms are available but limited due to their low count. Single rooms are prioritized for those requiring specific medical accommodations.
  • Suite-style and apartment-style rooms are available to students.

Emory University Cost of Attendance

This estimate takes into account tuition and fees, housing and meals, books and supplies, and personal expenses for the 2023-2024 academic year.

Total tuition costs

$88,414
  • There are multiple opportunities to receive financial aid assistance including grants, work study programs, loans, and outside scholarships.

Get Into Emory University with Spark Admissions

To gain admission to Emory University, prospective applicants need to strategize their high school coursework, leverage their extracurricular involvement, and craft a compelling personal essay. In an increasingly competitive college admissions landscape, standing out requires strategic planning and meticulous attention to detail. Partnering with a seasoned college admissions consultant can provide invaluable guidance and support throughout the often daunting, application process. Our expert college counselors offer personalized advice tailored to each student’s unique strengths and aspirations, helping them present polished applications and highlight their individuality to admissions committees. If you’re ready to take the next step towards your academic future at Emory University, connect with one of Spark Admission’s expert admissions consultants by scheduling a complimentary initial consultation with us!

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