Wake Forest UniversityWake Forest University
Winston-Salem, NC · South
Wake Forest University has an acceptance rate of 21.7% and a middle-50% SAT range of 1410-1520. The numbers below show who gets in and what it costs.
- Acceptance rate
- 21.7%
- SAT mid-50
- 1410-1520
- Cost after aid
- $28,719
- Graduation rate
- 89%
Application deadlines
Official 2026-2027 cycle deadlines for Wake Forest University.
| Plan | Deadline |
|---|---|
Early Decision IEarly Decision I. Evaluated on rolling basis. | Nov 15, 2026 |
Early Decision IIEarly Decision II, binding. Deadline 11:59 p.m. | Jan 1, 2027 |
Early ActionEarly Action restricted to first-generation college students, non-binding. | Nov 15, 2026 |
Regular DecisionRegular Decision. Deadline 11:59 p.m. | Jan 1, 2027 |
Essays
- Wake Forest supplemental essays: the 2026-27 prompts and word limits.
- Grade your Wake Forest essay: free, no account, scored against accepted essays.
About Wake Forest University
Wake Forest University is a small private university in Winston-Salem, NC, in a city setting.
What Wake Forest University looks for
With an acceptance rate around 22%, the application readers spend less time per file than they do at the most selective schools, but they still read. A solid GPA, strong letters, and an essay that sounds like you wrote it yourself go a long way here. The biggest unforced error: a generic supplement essay. Even moderately selective schools notice when you have not bothered to learn anything about them.
Frequently asked
What SAT score do I need for Wake Forest University?
Wake Forest University's middle 50% SAT range is 1410 to 1520. A score in or above that band keeps you in the conversation; below it, the rest of your application has to do more work.
What ACT score do I need for Wake Forest University?
Middle 50% ACT range is 32 to 34. The top of that range or above is what most admitted students submit when they choose to send a score.
What is the acceptance rate at Wake Forest University?
Wake Forest University admits roughly 22% of applicants. Selective, but stats inside the middle 50% put you in real contention.
What does Wake Forest University actually cost after financial aid?
Average net cost (after institutional aid) is about $28,719 per year. Net cost varies enormously by family income; run the school's net price calculator for an estimate that reflects your situation.
Is Wake Forest University a reach, match, or safety for me?
Compare your stats to the middle 50% above. If you are at or below the 25th percentile, treat Wake Forest University as a reach. If you are in the middle 50%, it is a match. Above the 75th percentile and the school accepts above 25% overall, it is closer to a safety. Selectivity below 20% should be treated as a reach for everyone, period.
