Johns Hopkins University opened its doors in 1876. The university was named in honor of philanthropist Johns Hopkins, who made his fortune by investing in emerging industries—most notably the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, of which he became the director in 1847. In his will, Hopkins set aside $7 million to establish a university, a hospital and training colleges, and an orphanage.
The university’s first president, Daniel Coit Gilman, oversaw the opening of the university hospital, press, and schools of medicine and nursing. Johns Hopkins today has the distinction of being the first research university in the country.
This remarkable university is best known for its pioneering and innovations in medical research, as well as genetic engineering. It’s become a top medical institution worldwide, and the selective Johns Hopkins acceptance rate is proof of that.
Johns Hopkins Acceptance Rate
In 2020, the overall Johns Hopkins acceptance rate was 9% for the class of 2023; however, the early admit rate was 44%. Preliminary information tells us that the overall acceptance rate for the class of 2025 was even lower, falling slightly less than 5%.
With these numbers, it’s easy to see why Johns Hopkins is one of the 50 most competitive schools for undergraduates in the world.
Johns Hopkins Admissions
It’s reported that the average unweighted GPA of admitted students is 3.9 on a 4.0 scale. The middle 50% SAT scores are 1500 to 1550, and the middle 50% ACT composite scores are 34 to 35. Furthermore, 99% of students who are admitted to Johns Hopkins graduated in the top 10% of their high school classes.
It should be noted that until further notice, standardized tests remain optional for the class of 2026 due to limitations in testing capability during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Admission to the university depends on many things, so anyone interested in becoming a student must focus on more than their GPA, test scores, and the John Hopkins acceptance rate.
Your Johns Hopkins Application
Just like most of the other elite educational institutions across the U.S., Johns Hopkins takes a holistic approach to reviewing every application that comes through for consideration.
We know that there are no set guidelines or core curriculum required for entry; however, we also know that the university has specified three areas in which applicants are considered. The Johns Hopkins admissions committee looks at:
- Impact and initiative
- Academic character
- Personal contributions
In addition, the university wants students who exemplify academic passion, unique perspectives, diversity, and curiosity. Admissions committees choose students based on goals, accomplishments, and potential impact within the Johns Hopkins community.
Tips for Gaining Johns Hopkins University Admission
The impact you make and the initiative you have is revealed through descriptions of your extracurricular activities. However, you should know that the university is looking for students who are not just in activities, but who also contribute to them through service, leadership, and innovation.
Academic character is shown by your GPA and class grades, the recommendations you turn in with your application, and your standardized test scores.
Your personal contributions should reflect your ability to follow your interests and your enthusiasm about becoming a student at Johns Hopkins. During high school, make sure to take as many AP or IB classes as possible to demonstrate that you face challenges that come your way, even when you aren’t required to do so.
Part of your Johns Hopkins application is going to contain your answers to essays and writing prompts. We strongly recommend that you use these essays and prompts to share details about you that are not made clear through the standard application.
Finally, don’t forget to expand on your love of learning, your hobbies and interests, and your useful appreciation for research and service.
Looking for personal guidance, advice, and suggestions on how to further improve your chances of getting into Johns Hopkins? Contact the team at Empowerly for a consultation!
