Wake Forest University
The Vibe Check
Wake Forest offers a distinct 'work hard, play hard' atmosphere where rigorous academics are balanced by a deeply communal, Southern-hospitality culture. The campus feels like a tight-knit, private school bubble where relationships with professors and peers are prioritized over large lecture hall anonymity.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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Academics & Majors
The university is renowned for its 'Pro Humanitate' mission and a liberal arts core that emphasizes writing and critical thinking across all majors. With a low student-faculty ratio, class discussions are seminar-style and personal, and the STEM programs, particularly biology and biomedical sciences, offer strong undergraduate research opportunities.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Winston-Salem
Students enjoy Winston-Salem's burgeoning arts scene, including the Innovation Quarter and frequent festivals in the downtown Arts District. For fun, groups often head to local breweries, the historic Old Salem district for dining and coffee, or take short drives to the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains for hiking.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($78,158):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus itself is very safe with a dedicated campus police force and well-lit pathways, though students should remain aware of their surroundings in the adjacent urban areas. Winston-Salem is generally considered safe for a city of its size, with the downtown and campus areas actively patrolled.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Exceptional undergraduate teaching with a 10:1 student-faculty ratio
- ✓ High graduation and retention rates indicate strong student satisfaction and support
- ✓ Prime location in a growing city with access to internships and outdoor activities
Cons
- ✗ High sticker price requires careful financial planning and aid dependency
- ✗ Greek life plays a significant social role, which may not suit everyone
- ✗ The campus can feel insular compared to larger urban universities
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
Wake Forest is known for its 'Pro Humanitate' motto, which emphasizes using knowledge to benefit humanity. It is highly regarded for its undergraduate-focused liberal arts education, strong business and pre-med programs, and a campus culture that values close faculty mentorship and character development.
Yes, it is highly selective. With an acceptance rate of just 21.56%, admission is competitive. The middle 50% of admitted students typically have SAT scores between 1390 and 1500 (or equivalent ACT scores), and successful applicants demonstrate strong academic rigor, leadership, and a commitment to community service.
Campus life is vibrant and community-oriented. While Greek life is present, there are over 250 student organizations catering to diverse interests. The university's location in Winston-Salem provides access to city amenities while maintaining a traditional, residential campus feel where students often participate in athletics, volunteer work, and campus events.
For many students, yes. The 10-year median earnings of $78,158 for graduates are strong, and the high retention and graduation rates suggest students are well-supported. The investment pays off through a powerful alumni network and a degree that is highly respected by employers and graduate schools, particularly in the Southeast and nationally.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1834
- Type Private
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 5,622
- In-State Tuition $64,758
- Zip Code 27106
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a sticker price over $64,000, the investment is significant, but the high graduation rate and strong alumni network provide a solid return on investment. The average net price of roughly $28,000 reflects substantial institutional aid, making the true cost manageable for many families compared to other top-tier private universities.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.