Washington University in St. Louis

Rank 24
Location Clayton
Established 1853
Famous For Medicine, Education, Engineering

Overview

Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) is a private research university founded in 1853. Its 169-acre Danforth Campus, characterised by Collegiate Gothic architecture, forms the heart of the institution and hosts a diverse student body from all 50 U.S. states and over 120 countries. The campus is nestled amidst Forest Park and the cities of St. Louis, Clayton, and University City. WashU comprises seven graduate and undergraduate schools spanning various academic disciplines.

For prospective international students, WashU offers a vibrant academic environment with top-notch faculties and research opportunities. Its Medical Campus spread over 164 acres and 17 city blocks, is home to the renowned Washington University School of Medicine, along with affiliated hospitals, clinics, and research facilities. The university's commitment to research is highlighted by its membership in the Association of American Universities and classification as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity."

WashU boasts 26 Nobel laureates affiliated with the university, making it a hub for groundbreaking research in economics, physiology, medicine, chemistry, and physics. Adding to its allure, the university's prime location in St. Louis enriches student life with cultural diversity and ample recreational opportunities.

Services for International Students

The Office for International Students and Scholars (OISS) at Washington University in St. Louis furnishes crucial provisions encompassing visa assistance, aid with cultural adaptation, and informative workshops focusing on employment prospects.

The International Student Association (ISA) fosters a welcoming community by organising cultural events, discussions, and celebrations. The Chinese Students and Scholars Association (CSSA) and Indian Students Association (ISA) offer platforms for cultural exchange and support. The Global Ambassadors Program connects new international students with experienced peers, easing their transition.

Academic assistance is available through the Writing Center and the English Language Programmes, aiding language and writing skills development. WashU's commitment to diversity is further exemplified by the Multicultural Center, which offers courses celebrating various identities and perspectives.

Ranking

  • 176th in QS World University Rankings 2025
  • 21st in National Universities (tie) U.S. News
  • 18th in Best Value Schools U.S. News

Accommodation

The Office of Residential Life at Washington University in St. Louis offers diverse student accommodation options, notably the South 40 Residential Colleges, catering to both first-year and sophomore students. These colleges provide modern and traditional housing with various room configurations, including suites and individual bedrooms. The South 40 enclave boasts its amenities like fitness centres, dining facilities, recreation areas, and more, enhancing the student experience.

The university requires first-year, degree-seeking undergraduate students to live on campus unless exempted. Graduate students can explore housing options such as House 22 (suite style) and House 5 (traditional style). For those seeking off-campus accommodation, resources are provided to navigate the rental process and ensure safety.

About Location

Washington University in St. Louis boasts a strategic location within the vibrant city of St. Louis, renowned as a national hub for groundbreaking research and business development, particularly in biotechnology and plant science. This dynamic environment attracts professionals from various fields, fostering innovation and creativity.

Forest Park, a historic 1,400-acre haven between the Danforth and Medical campuses, is a hub for diverse activities. This iconic park, which hosted the 1904 World's Fair, continues to house cultural gems such as the Saint Louis Art Museum, the Saint Louis Zoo, the Missouri History Museum, and the St. Louis Science Center.

Alumni

  • Tennessee Williams: Renowned playwright known for classics like "A Streetcar Named Desire" and "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof."
  • William H. Webster: Former FBI and CIA director, contributing significantly to national security and intelligence.
  • Jon Hamm: Emmy-winning actor, famed for his role as Don Draper in the television series "Mad Men."
  • Sara Paretsky: Acclaimed mystery novelist, and creator of the detective series featuring V.I. Warshawski.
  • Thomas Friedman: Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author, known for his insights on globalisation and geopolitics.
  • Cynthia Carroll: Former CEO of Anglo American, one of the world's largest mining companies, pioneering in the male-dominated industry.
  • Chinua Achebe: Respected Nigerian novelist and poet, acclaimed for his seminal work "Things Fall Apart," contributing to African literature.

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