How to get into Wake Forest—General Information
Wake Forest University is a private liberal arts university located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Founded in 1834, Wake Forest has become one of the top-ranked universities in the nation. The total student body population is about 9,000, and the undergraduate Wake Forest enrollment is just over 5,400.
What we’ll cover in this “How to get into Wake Forest” guide:
- Wake Forest enrollment statistics
- Interpreting the Wake Forest acceptance rate
- Optimal Wake Forest GPA and Wake Forest SAT scores
- Wake Forest admissions facts and expectations
- The Wake Forest application requirements
- Tips for the Wake Forest supplemental essays, and more.
Figuring out how to get into Wake Forest takes strategy. We can help. CollegeAdvisor.com’s network of 300+ Admissions Experts (and former admissions officers) includes Wake Forest graduates. Want to maximize your Wake Forest admissions odds? Create your free account or schedule a free advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272.
How to get into Wake Forest
Wondering how to get into Wake Forest? First, understand that it’s a competitive school. As you think about how to get into Wake Forest, make sure you carefully craft each part of your Wake Forest application. That means exceeding the estimated average Wake Forest GPA and average Wake Forest SAT scores and writing strong Wake Forest supplemental essays.
Keep reading this “How to get into Wake Forest” guide for detailed tips on each section of the Wake Forest application.
How hard is it to get into Wake Forest University?
Coming in at #74 on Forbes Top Colleges 2021 list and #28 on the U.S. News Best Colleges list, Wake Forest is one of the top-ranked schools in the nation. So, getting into Wake Forest isn’t easy. With over 15,000 applicants, a Wake Forest enrollment of about 3,800, and a Wake Forest acceptance rate of 29.6%, competition is fierce.
What does that mean when it comes to figuring out how to get into Wake Forest? It means you should carefully prepare each part of your Wake Forest application. Assume the average Wake Forest GPA is high and prepare accordingly. The average Wake Forest SAT scores fall between 1290 and 1470. Although submitting Wake Forest SAT scores is optional, we suggest doing so and studying hard for these tests, too. Finally, write thoughtful and authentic Wake Forest supplemental essays—this is key to impressing Wake Forest admissions. If you craft an application that showcases your strengths, you have a solid chance of joining the Wake Forest enrollment despite the low Wake Forest acceptance rate.
What is the average GPA needed for Wake Forest?
As you craft your “how to get into Wake Forest” strategy, know that Wake Forest admissions does not have official Wake Forest GPA requirements. However, because of the low Wake Forest acceptance rate, the average Wake Forest GPA is likely to be high. As we mentioned, the average Wake Forest SAT scores fall between 1290 and 1470. So, assume that the average Wake Forest GPA is probably around 3.9.
Wake Forest admissions take academics seriously. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t work hard on other parts of your Wake Forest application, like your Wake Forest supplemental essays. However, your Wake Forest GPA and Wake Forest SAT scores should be the most important part of your “How to get into Wake Forest” strategy.
With an undergraduate Wake Forest enrollment of about 5,400 and a Wake Forest acceptance rate of 29.6%, Wake Forest admissions is selective. So, how do you impress Wake Forest admissions and crack the “how to get into Wake Forest” code?
Follow these tips to improve your chance of joining the Wake Forest enrollment:
- Take a variety of classes. As a liberal arts school, Wake Forest looks for students with strong grades in multiple areas. While this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t follow your interests, you should take courses that broaden your horizons. Take classes in history, math, English, foreign language, and science throughout your high school career.
- Take advanced-level courses. While there is no official Wake Forest GPA requirement, aim for a Wake Forest GPA of above 3.9. Also, plan to take AP and IB courses. Think about your academic strengths and choose courses that will play to them.
- Start early. Plan your academic courses early in your high school career. Use your interests, strengths, and college goals to create a four-year course plan that meets your needs.
What does the Wake Forest application include?
Your “how to get into Wake Forest” strategy should have many parts. However, it all comes down to a carefully crafted Wake Forest application—and, of course, meeting the deadlines. The Wake Forest Early Decision deadline is November 15th and the Early Decision II and the Regular Decision deadline is January 1st.
Wake Forest admissions gives applicants four options when applying. Applicants may use the Wake Forest application, the Common App, the Coalition App, or the College Foundation of North Carolina site.
Check out these tips if you’re using the Common App.
No matter the portal, your Wake Forest application must include the following:
- Secondary school report
- Mid-year school report form
- Teacher recommendation
- Wake Forest supplemental essays
To find specific Wake Forest admissions requirements for a transfer, international, or Early Decision Wake Forest application, click here.
If you’re worried about not hitting the estimated average Wake Forest GPA, Wake Forest SAT scores, or Wake Forest ACT scores, you may want to take advantage of the optional interview. However, not everyone is guaranteed an interview. So, if you’re interested, request one early.
Submitting Wake Forest SAT scores or ACT scores is also optional. Again, the average Wake Forest SAT scores are between 1290 and 1470. So, if your scores meet or exceed this range, we suggest you include them in your Wake Forest application. If not, focus on impressing Wake Forest admissions with your Wake Forest supplemental essays.
What is the acceptance rate for Wake Forest University?
Wake Forest admissions receives over 15,000 applicants each year. So, it’s no surprise that they’re selective! Although you shouldn’t obsess over Wake Forest enrollment figures and the Wake Forest acceptance rate, have them in mind as you craft your “how to get into Wake Forest” plan.
The Wake Forest acceptance rate is 29.6%, making it a very selective school.
So, how does this impact your “how to get into Wake Forest” strategy? Make sure your Wake Forest application shines! That means optimizing your Wake Forest GPA, Wake Forest SAT scores, and Wake Forest ACT scores.
Wake Forest admissions looks for applicants who are not only high-achieving, but who are also active in their communities. There is a reason the school’s motto is “pro humanitate” (meaning “for humanity”)—the school believes in using knowledge to give back. That won’t be seen through your GPA or Wake Forest SAT scores, however high they are. So, use the rest of the Wake Forest application to show how you’re an empathetic, motivated, and curious learner.
Still unsure about what the Wake Forest acceptance rate means? Learn more about how the Wake Forest acceptance rate impacts the Wake Forest admissions process here.
What extracurriculars does Wake Forest like?
Your “how to get into Wake Forest” plan should include a strong set of extracurriculars. You’ll likely discuss these activities in your personal essays and Wake Forest supplemental essays.
No specific extracurriculars will win over Wake Forest admissions officers. So, don’t choose your extracurriculars that you think will help you join Wake Forest enrollment. Authenticity is key when it comes to extracurriculars, so find what interests you and get involved in that.
Wake Forest also emphasizes the importance of their students contributing to global needs. This doesn’t mean you have to become a diplomat. However, you should show how you use your skills to give back to your community.
The undergraduate Wake Forest enrollment is about 5,400, and there are more than 250 student organizations and clubs on campus. Wake Forest wants their students to get involved in the community. So, use your extracurriculars to show them how you would enrich campus culture beyond the classroom.
Alongside a high Wake Forest GPA and Wake Forest SAT scores, ambitious extracurriculars will really help your Wake Forest application stand out to Wake Forest admissions. So, choose wisely!
How do I write a Wake Forest supplemental essay?
A big part of how to get into Wake Forest lies in your Wake Forest supplemental essays. If you can’t meet the assumed Wake Forest GPA or Wake Forest SAT scores, these essays will improve your chances of beating the Wake Forest acceptance rate.
Because the Wake Forest acceptance rate is only 29.6%, thoughtful and unique Wake Forest supplemental essays should be at the top of your “how to get into Wake Forest” checklist. So, what do we know about the Wake Forest supplemental essays?
The Wake Forest supplemental essays from the 2022 application are:
1. List five books you’ve read that intrigued you (title and author). The second part of the prompt asks you to explain how a book you’ve read has helped you to understand the world’s complexity.
2. Tell us more about the topic that most engages your intellectual curiosity.
3. Give us your Top Ten list, from a theme of your choice
4. Submit a 250-650 word essay on a topic of your choice
All of the Wake Forest supplemental essays are optional. However, you should answer each one. Wake Forest admissions really wants to see that you’re more than just your grades. This can help you if you aren’t confident you’ll meet the average Wake Forest GPA or Wake Forest SAT scores. And, even if you have strong grades, these essays give you another place to shine.
Use these tips when thinking about how to respond to the Wake Forest supplemental essays:
Address the greater good
Wake Forest prides itself on providing an education that will meet the needs of the world. They want to see how you’ll use your knowledge to give back. So, show them how you already do just that.
Show intellectual curiosity
The Wake Forest enrollment and Wake Forest acceptance rate make Wake Forest University a very competitive school. So, how to get into Wake Forest? Show the Wake Forest admissions team how you have developed your intellectual interests outside of the classroom.
Be unique
This doesn’t mean you need to have an extravagant resume. But, you should think about the unique experiences you’ve had and the skills, talents, and interests that make you who you are. Show how those experiences will make you a strong addition to the Wake Forest community.
Will Wake Forest University consider my social media accounts?
Wake Forest admissions does not officially review students’ social media accounts. With so many applicants, the admissions team likely won’t have time to check your Twitter or Instagram.
However, if the idea of Wake Forest admissions seeing your social media makes you nervous, then you should think carefully about what you post. Beyond your Wake Forest application, social media can impact potential internships and future employment. So, we suggest you always post responsibly!
Is Wake Forest a good school for me?
You’ve obsessively researched “Wake Forest GPA,” “Wake Forest SAT scores,” “Wake Forest enrollment,” and “Wake Forest acceptance rate,” trying to learn exactly how to get into Wake Forest. You’ve thought about how to craft the most compelling Wake Forest application. Finally, you’ve written and rewritten your Wake Forest supplemental essays to make sure they impress Wake Forest admissions.
But, have you taken the time to consider if Wake Forest is a good fit for you? It’s easy to get overwhelmed in the Wake Forest admissions process. However, knowing exactly how to get into Wake Forest doesn’t matter if the school isn’t a good match.
When considering what school to attend, think about what matters to you. Consider academics, campus life, school size. Then, make a list of what you want from your college experience. Make sure that those values would be met if you joined the Wake Forest enrollment.
When thinking about where to apply, don’t forget that you are the most important factor. Make sure that you choose a school where you can excel.
Still not sure? Check out the student life at Wake Forest to see if it’s a good fit.
Additional tips to get into Wake Forest University
This “How to Get Into Wake Forest” guide has shown that your “how to get into Wake Forest” plan needs more than just strong Wake Forest SAT scores. A strong Wake Forest application showcases your personality, skills, and passions. To help you improve your chances of making the Wake Forest enrollment and beating the low Wake Forest acceptance rate, here are some final tips on how to get into Wake Forest.
Prepare early
Start working on your Wake Forest application the summer before your senior year. Use the time to perfect your application narrative so you have the best chance of acceptance.
Demonstrate academic achievement
Show Wake Forest that you care about your academics. Plan your course load carefully, taking challenging courses in a broad range of subjects.
Write strong essays
Writing ability is a huge factor in Wake Forest admissions. Prepare your Wake Forest supplemental essays meticulously, making sure your personality, writing style, and impeccable mechanics shine through.
Check out this more general college application checklist if you’re still not sure you have all the correct items in your Wake Forest application.
There are no guarantees when it comes to Wake Forest admissions. However, that shouldn’t hold you back. Don’t get caught up on things like the average Wake Forest GPA, Wake Forest SAT scores, Wake Forest acceptance rate, and other Wake Forest enrollment stats. Instead, use the advice in this “how to get into Wake Forest” guide, and craft the strongest Wake Forest application you can. Good luck!
This guide was written by Sarah Kaminski. If you want to know how to get into Wake Forest, we’ve got you covered. CollegeAdvisor.com’s network of 300+ Admissions Experts (and former admissions officers) includes graduates from some of the country’s top schools. Create your free account or schedule a free advising consultation by calling (844) 343-6272.
