Wake Forest University campus
Wake Forest University logo

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 the Wake Forest University admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

Wake Forest University admitted 21.7% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That’s a low rate. Treat it as a reach unless the rest of your profile is very strong.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1410–1520 on the SAT and 32–34 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what Wake Forest University actually rewards, then 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

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • TestingOptional (2027 cycle)

Verified from wfu.edu.

The essays

Here are the supplemental essay prompts.

The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll 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 will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $87,499. That isn’t 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.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Finance and Financial Management Services10% of degrees
  • Communication and Media Studies8% of degrees
  • Business/Commerce, General8% of degrees
  • Political Science and Government8% of degrees
  • Psychology, General8% of degrees
  • Economics7% of degrees

Top programs: Business · Biology · Economics · Psychology · Communication

Campus life

Here’s 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

What do people ask about Wake Forest University?

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. 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. After aid, families pay $28,719 on average.
Is Wake Forest University worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $78,158 ten years after enrolling. 90% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s 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.