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An illustration of students walking in front of South College

If you find yourself on campus these days and encounter a member of the class of 2026, there’s a solid chance that student’s name begins with an A.

You might meet an Amelia, an Alejandra, an Anoushka or an Andrew (which is the most common name among new Amherst students). In fact, 17 percent of the new class has an “A” name. Here are some other—arguably more consequential—facts about the 467 first-years and 18 new transfer students.

Illustration by Karlotta Freier


Admission Stats

14,684

Applicants to the class of 2026

1,079

Number accepted

7.3%

Acceptance rate

About the New Students

4

Military veterans

49%

Domestic students of color

12%

International students

17%

First-generation college students

20%

Pell Grant recipients

57%

Receiving Amherst College financial aid

New York

Most common home state