Wake Forest University campus
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Wake Forest University

Winston-Salem, NC · Private · 5,485 students

Life as a Deacon is active, with opportunities spanning academics, co-curricular pursuits, and extracurricular interests.

Acceptance rate

21.7%

SAT (mid 50%)

1410–1520

Avg net price

$28,719

after aid

Testing

optional

2027 cycle

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and Wake Forest University’s admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

Getting in is the hard part. Wake Forest University admitted 21.7% of applicants in its most recent reported class, one of the lowest rates in the country. Realistically it is a reach for every applicant, no matter how strong.

Admitted students cluster near the top of the testing range: the middle 50% score 14101520 on the SAT and 3234 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention, but they do not decide it.

The real question is not your odds but your move. That is where Spike comes in: it reads your profile against what Wake Forest University actually rewards, and tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Comprehensive Education for Impact

Our model and curriculum educate the whole person and often help students discover interests they had never previously discovered.

Students can choose from over 50 majors and 60 minors, with 82% of graduates declaring a second major and/or a minor or minors.

  • AccountancyMajor, Minor
  • Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyMajor
  • Business & Enterprise ManagementMajor

Verified from wfu.edu and admissions.wfu.edu and admissions.wfu.edu and admissions.wfu.edu and admissions.wfu.edu and admissions.wfu.edu.

Applying

Requirements and deadlines

  • Testingoptional (2027 cycle)

Verified from wfu.edu.

The essays

Supplemental essay prompts

The current prompts, straight from the application. These change year to year, so most guides you will find are a cycle behind.

  • Why have you decided to apply to Wake Forest? Share with us anything that has made you interested in our institution.

    Up to 100 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from wfu.edu.

Cost and aid

What you will actually pay

The sticker price is about $87,499, but that is not what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $28,719.

Wake Forest meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for eligible students through a combination of loans, grants, work-study, and other sources.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $78,158.

Verified from wfu.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Campus life

The feel of the place

You could solve a complex neuroscience equation in the morning and perform in a violin quartet on Hearn Plaza that afternoon or score a winning goal in an intramural soccer game after debate practice

The Wake Forest Wellbeing Center offers state-of-the-art facilities, while Hearn Plaza hosts campus-wide philanthropic events.

ActiveCommunity-focusedPhilanthropicEngaged

Quick answers

Wake Forest University FAQ

Is Wake Forest University test-optional?
For the 2027 application cycle, standardized testing at Wake Forest University is optional.
How hard is it to get into Wake Forest University?
Very hard. Wake Forest University admits 21.7% of applicants, and the middle 50% of admitted students score 1410 to 1520 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
How much does Wake Forest University cost?
The list price is about $87,499, but the average price families actually pay after aid is $28,719.
Is Wake Forest University worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $78,158 ten years after enrolling, and 90% graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals, which is exactly what Spike helps you weigh.

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Ask Spike anything about Wake Forest University.

Spike answers from Wake Forest University’s own site, then helps you figure out your move. Join the waitlist to get in early.