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75.3%Acceptance
$14,297Tuition
15,676Students
57%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$53,493Earnings
#9 in MichiganPublic4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalResearch UniversityNCAA Division IIStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

Overview

Wayne State University is a less selective public four-year institution in Detroit, Michigan. The school accepts 75.3% of applicants and enrolls 15,676 students.

Admission Statistics

Acceptance Rate
75.3%
Average SAT
1,150
SAT Range (25th–75th)
1,040–1,260
ACT Composite (avg)
25
Total Enrollment
15,676

Your Chances by SAT Score

Strong Candidate
SAT above 1,260

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

Competitive
SAT 1,040–1,260

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

Reach School
SAT below 1,040

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

Admission Guide

Wayne State University uses rolling admissions, so you can submit your application anytime between August and the following August, though applying earlier gives you better access to housing and financial aid. You need to submit your high school transcript, SAT or ACT scores, and a personal statement through the Common Application or Wayne State's online portal.

Several programs require separate applications with higher standards than the university's general admission requirements. The Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy requires prerequisite coursework and competitive test scores. The School of Medicine has its own rigorous application process through AMCAS. Engineering programs, while not requiring separate applications, expect stronger math and science preparation than other majors.

You must submit your housing application separately from your admissions application and pay a deposit to secure your spot in the residence halls. Wayne State guarantees housing for first-year students who apply by May 1, but spaces fill quickly for the newer facilities like the Towers Residential Suites.

The university sits in Detroit's Midtown cultural district, meaning you'll have internship opportunities with major employers like Ford, General Motors, and Detroit Medical Center within walking distance or a short commute. The campus connects directly to downtown Detroit via the QLine streetcar system.

Your orientation, called Green and Gold Welcome, happens the week before classes start and includes academic advising, course registration, and campus tours. You can also attend optional summer orientation sessions that let you register for classes earlier and meet other incoming students before the fall semester begins.

What It Costs If You Get In

Average Net Price
$14,773/yr
Tuition (in-state)
$14,297
Tuition (out-of-state)
$30,419
Students Receiving Aid
43%

View full cost breakdown →

After You Graduate

Graduation Rate (6-year)
56.5%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$53,493/yr
Freshman Retention Rate
81.5%

View full outcomes data →

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the application deadlines for Wayne State University?

Wayne State University has rolling admissions for most undergraduate programs, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received. Priority consideration is given to applications submitted by February 1 for fall admission.

Does Wayne State University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?

Wayne State University is test-optional for most undergraduate programs. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.

How many credits can transfer students bring to Wayne State University?

Wayne State University accepts up to 90 credit hours from other institutions. Students must complete at least 30 credit hours at Wayne State to earn a degree from the university.

Does Wayne State University offer early admission programs?

Wayne State University does not offer early decision or early action programs. The university uses rolling admissions, so students receive decisions shortly after their applications are complete.