Wake Forest University

Wake Forest University

(Wake Forest)

Winston-Salem, NCPrivateComprehensiveNCAA D1Admissions

Wake Forest University is a private research university in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, known for its small class sizes, strong business school, and personal attention to students. As a pioneer in test-optional admissions among selective universities, Wake Forest emphasizes holistic review and character-driven education.

Mascot: Demon Deacon

Notable Alumni

Tim Duncan (NBA legend)Arnold Palmer (legendary golfer)Chris Paul (NBA All-Star)

At a Glance

Acceptance Rate
21%
SAT (Optional)
1340–1470
Avg GPA
3.85
Enrollment
5.5K
Setting
Suburban
Founded
1834

Cost

Tuition$62K
Room & Board$17K
Est. Annual Total$80K

Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.

Top Programs & National Ranking

Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.

Highlights

Test-optional pioneer
Small university feel
Strong business school

Athletics

Division
NCAA Division 1
Conference
Atlantic Coast Conference
View on NCAA.com

Safety

Campus SafetySafe

The enclosed suburban campus benefits from a dedicated university police force with low violent crime rates. Most incidents are minor.

Neighborhood SafetySafe

The campus sits in a relatively safe suburban part of Winston-Salem. The broader city has above-average crime rates, but the immediate area is quiet and residential.

Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.

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