Overview
Winston-Salem State University is a less selective public four-year institution in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The school accepts 73.4% of applicants and enrolls 4,244 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 73.4%
- Average SAT
- 940
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 830–1,050
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 17
- Total Enrollment
- 4,244
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Winston-Salem State University uses a rolling admissions process, so you can apply throughout the year without worrying about strict deadlines. Submit your application through the university's online portal along with your high school transcripts and test scores. The application fee is $25.
Nursing stands out as the most competitive program on campus, requiring higher academic credentials and additional prerequisites including specific science courses. You'll need to complete biology, chemistry, and anatomy before applying to the nursing program, which has limited spots available each semester. The clinical laboratory science program also maintains more selective admission standards due to its specialized nature and strong job placement record.
Housing fills up quickly, especially in the newer residence halls. Submit your housing application and deposit as soon as you're admitted to secure your preferred dormitory. First-year students must live on campus unless they're commuting from home within a reasonable distance.
The campus sits in downtown Winston-Salem, giving you access to internships and part-time jobs at local businesses and medical facilities. Wake Forest University Medical Center, located nearby, provides clinical rotation opportunities for nursing and health science students.
Plan to attend orientation during the summer before your first semester. You'll register for classes, meet with academic advisors, and complete placement testing during this mandatory program. The university offers multiple orientation sessions throughout the summer to accommodate different schedules.
Financial aid processing takes several weeks, so submit your FAFSA early in the year. The university offers payment plans if you need to spread tuition costs across the semester rather than paying upfront.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $13,393/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $6,735
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $17,391
- Students Receiving Aid
- 61%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 48.6%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $45,344/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 74.8%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Winston-Salem State University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Winston-Salem State University is test-optional, meaning you can apply without submitting SAT or ACT scores. Students may still submit test scores if they believe it will strengthen their application.
What is the application deadline for Winston-Salem State University?
The priority application deadline for Winston-Salem State University is March 1 for fall admission. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis after the priority deadline until capacity is reached.
How many credits can transfer students bring to Winston-Salem State University?
Transfer students can bring up to 64 credit hours from community colleges and up to 90 credit hours from four-year institutions to Winston-Salem State University. All transfer credits must be from regionally accredited institutions with grades of C or better.
What are the strongest programs at Winston-Salem State University?
Winston-Salem State University is particularly known for its nursing and health sciences programs. The university also offers strong programs in rehabilitation services and clinical laboratory science.