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60.7%Acceptance
$29,264Tuition
832Students
44%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$45,989Earnings
Private nonprofit4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalNAIAStudy AbroadData: 2023-24United Methodist

Overview

Tennessee Wesleyan University is a less selective private four-year institution in Athens, Tennessee. The school accepts 60.7% of applicants and enrolls 832 students.

Admission Statistics

Acceptance Rate
60.7%
Average SAT
1,050
SAT Range (25th–75th)
950–1,150
ACT Composite (avg)
21
Total Enrollment
832

Your Chances by SAT Score

Strong Candidate
SAT above 1,150

Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.

Competitive
SAT 950–1,150

Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.

Reach School
SAT below 950

Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.

Admission Guide

Tennessee Wesleyan University operates on a rolling admissions basis, so you can submit your application anytime after it opens and receive a decision within weeks rather than waiting months. This small Methodist university in Athens gives you direct access to professors who know your name and career goals from day one.

Your application should emphasize community service and leadership experiences, as TWU draws heavily from its Methodist heritage of service. Highlight any volunteer work, church involvement, or community projects in your essays. The nursing program stands out as the strongest career pathway here, with graduates earning solid salaries and finding jobs quickly in the region's healthcare systems.

Write about specific faculty you want to work with rather than generic program descriptions. With fewer than 900 students total, professors here actually read applications and remember what you write. Mention particular research opportunities or internship programs you discovered on their website. The small class sizes mean you'll work directly with faculty on projects as an undergraduate.

TWU fits students who want personal attention but don't need big-city amenities. Athens sits in rural Tennessee, so you'll need to create your own entertainment beyond campus activities. Students here tend to be down-to-earth, often first-generation college students from Tennessee and surrounding states who appreciate the tight-knit community feel.

Submit your application early in the rolling cycle to secure better financial aid packages. TWU offers generous need-based aid that makes it affordable for many families, but funds get allocated throughout the year. Don't wait until spring to apply if you need financial assistance.

Focus your essays on how you'll contribute to campus life rather than just what you hope to gain. With such a small student body, each person's involvement matters more than at larger schools. Mention specific clubs, athletic teams, or service opportunities you want to join or start.

What It Costs If You Get In

Average Net Price
$14,879/yr
Tuition (in-state)
$29,264
Students Receiving Aid
38%

View full cost breakdown →

After You Graduate

Graduation Rate (6-year)
43.6%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$45,989/yr
Freshman Retention Rate
63.8%

View full outcomes data →

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the admission requirements for Tennessee Wesleyan University?

Tennessee Wesleyan University requires a high school diploma or GED, official transcripts, and SAT or ACT scores. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1050.

Does Tennessee Wesleyan University require SAT or ACT scores?

Yes, Tennessee Wesleyan University requires either SAT or ACT scores for admission. Test scores are part of the standard application review process.

What is the application deadline for Tennessee Wesleyan University?

Tennessee Wesleyan University operates on a rolling admissions basis, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. Students should apply early for the best chance of admission and financial aid consideration.

Can I transfer credits to Tennessee Wesleyan University?

Tennessee Wesleyan University accepts transfer students and will evaluate credits from regionally accredited institutions. Students must submit official transcripts from all previous colleges attended.