1. Application Form + High School Transcript

You’ve gotta submit a completed application through the Common App, Coalition App, or QuestBridge, plus your official high school transcript. That transcript should show the full range of your coursework and grades—especially if you’ve taken rigor in English, math, lab sciences, social sciences, and a foreign language. W&L values depth over breadth, so pushing yourself academically in core subjects counts.

2. Teacher & Counselor Recommendations + Secondary School Report

You’ll need two teacher recommendations (usually from academic instructors) and one from a school counselor or guidance counselor—that counselor also submits a Secondary School Report. These letters help the admissions committee see your character, potential, and achievements beyond grades.

3. Personal Essay (and Optional Supplements)

Your personal essay isn’t a formality—it’s a chance to share your voice. Through the Common App or Coalition App, W&L expects you to write with thoughtfulness, clarity, and personal insight. Optional supplementary essays—like the “W&L Interest” prompt—can give you a boost by showing your knowledge of and fit with the school.

4. Standardized Tests (SAT or ACT) – Optional

Here’s the shift: W&L is test-optional through the 2025–26 cycle. If you’ve got solid SAT or ACT scores (think mid-50% ranges: SAT ~1420–1510, ACT ~32–35), they’ll consider them. But no scores? No stress—they’ll still evaluate your application holistically.

5. English Proficiency (for International Applicants)

If English isn’t your first language or your schooling wasn’t in English, you’ll most likely need to submit official scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo. W&L doesn’t accept home-ed TOEFL or self-reported scores for language proficiency. They’re looking at competitive averages, like TOEFL ~105, IELTS ~7.5, Duolingo ~135.