Wake Forest University

Wake Forest: Educating the Whole Person for a Global Future.

📍 Winston Salem, United States 🇺🇸

🏆 #46 in United States · QS World #791 · THE World #401 · ARWU #501

Quick Facts about Wake Forest University

  • Type: Private
  • Students: 9,322
  • Campus: Suburban
  • Tuition: $38,650 – $70,332/year
  • Language: English
  • Student-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
  • Intakes: January, August

About Wake Forest University

Wake Forest University, located in Winston Salem, North Carolina, is a private research university established in 1834. It offers a diverse academic community with 45 majors and programs across seven colleges and schools, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and community engagement. The university is dedicated to developing students into global citizens through a strong liberal arts education.

Academics

Wake Forest University provides a robust academic environment with popular majors including Business, Biology, Psychology, Economics, and Political Science. The School of Business is particularly notable, offering undergraduate programs in Accountancy, Business and Enterprise Management, and Finance, with an emphasis on experiential learning. The university maintains a faculty to student ratio of 1 to 11, with 93% of undergraduate faculty holding doctorates or terminal degrees in their fields, contributing to a strong teaching approach.

International Students

The Center for Immigration Services and Support (ISS) at Wake Forest provides comprehensive visa processing and immigration support to international students and scholars, offering guidance from arrival through graduation. International students make up approximately 9.1% of the student body, with a significant number coming from China, India, and Saudi Arabia. While need based financial aid is generally not available for international students, they are eligible for most merit based scholarships, including full cost awards. English proficiency is required, with accepted tests including TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo.

Campus & Location

Wake Forest University's main Reynolda Campus in Winston Salem is known for its Georgian architecture and is frequently recognized for its beauty. Winston Salem itself is a vibrant "City of Arts and Innovation," offering a rich cultural scene with diverse dining, visual and performing arts, and numerous parks and greenways. While the main campus is a few minutes' drive from the football and basketball stadiums, the university also has facilities in downtown Winston Salem, including Wake Downtown in the Innovation Quarter.

Career Outcomes

Wake Forest University demonstrates strong post graduation outcomes, with 97.3% of the Class of 2024 either employed or pursuing graduate/professional school. The Office of Personal and Career Development actively supports students, with 93% utilizing career resources. Graduates find employment in diverse industries, with notable employers including Bank of America, Deloitte, EY, JP Morgan Chase & Co., and KPMG. The university's strong academic programs, particularly in Finance and Computer Science, lead to high earning potentials for graduates.

Information for International Students at Wake Forest University

Wake Forest University in Winston Salem, United States welcomes international students.

  • No visa support offered
  • No on-campus work
  • Student housing available
  • Teaching languages: English

Admissions Requirements for Wake Forest University

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Wake Forest University:

  • IELTS minimum: 6.5
  • TOEFL minimum: 79
  • Duolingo minimum: 115
  • GPA minimum: 3.9
  • Application fee: $85
  • Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%)
  • Application deadline: January 1

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Programs at Wake Forest University (46 programs)

Wake Forest University offers 46 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (26)

  • English (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · Scholarship available
    The English program fosters critical thinking and analytical skills through the study of literature, rhetoric, and creative writing.
    Field: English Literature
    Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Teacher, Journalist
  • Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    The Biology program offers a comprehensive understanding of living organisms, from molecular to ecosystem levels, with opportunities for laboratory and field research.
    Field: Biology
    Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Environmental Scientist
  • Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · Scholarship available
    This program examines political systems, theories, and behaviors, preparing students for careers in government, law, public policy, and international relations.
    Field: Political Science
    Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Lobbyist, Campaign Manager, Lawyer
  • Philosophy (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · Scholarship available
    This program engages with fundamental questions about existence, knowledge, values, reason, mind, and language, fostering advanced critical thinking, logical reasoning, and ethical analysis.
    Field: Philosophy
    Career outcomes: Lawyer, Ethicist, Writer, Consultant, Educator
  • Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    This program provides a rigorous education in the fundamentals of computer science, including programming, algorithms, data structures, and software engineering.
    Field: Computer Science
    Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Analyst, IT Consultant
  • Religious Studies (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · Scholarship available
    The Religious Studies program explores diverse religious traditions, beliefs, and practices across cultures and historical periods, promoting interdisciplinary understanding and critical analysis of religious phenomena.
    Field: Religious Studies
    Career outcomes: Non-profit Manager, Educator, Journalist, Counselor, Clergy
  • Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · Scholarship available
    The Psychology program explores the scientific study of mind and behavior, covering areas such as cognitive, developmental, social, and clinical psychology.
    Field: Psychology
    Career outcomes: Counselor, Human Resources Specialist, Researcher
  • Communication (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · Scholarship available
    The Communication program explores various forms of human communication, including interpersonal, organizational, and media communication, developing strong analytical and expressive skills.
    Field: Communication
    Career outcomes: Public Relations Specialist, Journalist, Marketing Communications Manager
  • Art History (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · Scholarship available
    This program examines art and architecture across different cultures and historical periods, developing visual literacy, critical analysis, and research skills through the study of artistic movements and theories.
    Field: Art History
    Career outcomes: Museum Curator, Art Critic, Gallery Manager, Archivist, Educator
  • Economics (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · Scholarship available
    The Economics program examines how societies allocate scarce resources, covering microeconomics, macroeconomics, and various specialized economic fields.
    Field: Economics
    Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Policy Analyst
  • Music (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · Scholarship available
    The Music program offers a comprehensive study of music theory, history, performance, and composition, fostering creativity, technical proficiency, and a deep appreciation for diverse musical traditions.
    Field: Music
    Career outcomes: Musician, Music Educator, Composer, Sound Engineer, Arts Administrator
  • History (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · Scholarship available
    The History program explores past events, societies, and cultures, developing critical thinking, research, and analytical skills applicable to various professions.
    Field: History
    Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Journalist, Lawyer
  • Engineering (Collaborative Program) (BSc) — 60 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    This collaborative program allows students to complete three years at Wake Forest and two years at a partner engineering institution, earning degrees from both.
    Field: Engineering
    Career outcomes: Engineer, Product Developer, Technical Consultant
  • Anthropology (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · Scholarship available
    This program explores human societies and cultures across time and space, covering topics such as archaeology, cultural anthropology, and biological anthropology.
    Field: Anthropology
    Career outcomes: Researcher, Museum Curator, International Development Worker
  • Finance (BSc) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    This program provides a deep understanding of financial markets, investments, corporate finance, and financial institutions, preparing students for careers in the financial industry.
    Field: Finance
    Career outcomes: Investment Banker, Financial Analyst, Portfolio Manager
  • Neuroscience (BSc) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    The Neuroscience program investigates the structure and function of the nervous system, integrating biology, psychology, and chemistry to understand the brain and behavior.
    Field: Neuroscience
    Career outcomes: Neuroscientist, Research Assistant, Medical Professional
  • Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · Scholarship available
    This program examines social structures, interactions, and institutions, providing a critical understanding of human society and social change.
    Field: Sociology
    Career outcomes: Social Worker, Community Organizer, Researcher, Policy Analyst
  • Business and Enterprise Management (BSc) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · Scholarship available
    This program provides a strong foundation in business principles, including finance, marketing, and operations, preparing students for diverse roles in the corporate world.
    Field: Business
    Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Marketing Specialist, Financial Advisor
  • Mathematical Business (BSc) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    This interdisciplinary program combines rigorous mathematical training with core business principles, preparing students for analytical roles in finance, consulting, and data science.
    Field: Mathematical Business
    Career outcomes: Quantitative Analyst, Financial Engineer, Data Scientist
  • Engineering (Collaborative Program) (BSc) — 60 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    This collaborative program allows students to complete three years at Wake Forest and two years at a partner engineering institution, earning degrees from both.
    Field: Engineering
    Career outcomes: Engineer, Product Developer, Technical Consultant
  • Anthropology (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · Scholarship available
    This program explores human societies and cultures across time and space, covering topics such as archaeology, cultural anthropology, and biological anthropology.
    Field: Anthropology
    Career outcomes: Researcher, Museum Curator, International Development Worker
  • Finance (BSc) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    This program provides a deep understanding of financial markets, investments, corporate finance, and financial institutions, preparing students for careers in the financial industry.
    Field: Finance
    Career outcomes: Investment Banker, Financial Analyst, Portfolio Manager
  • Neuroscience (BSc) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    The Neuroscience program investigates the structure and function of the nervous system, integrating biology, psychology, and chemistry to understand the brain and behavior.
    Field: Neuroscience
    Career outcomes: Neuroscientist, Research Assistant, Medical Professional
  • Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · Scholarship available
    This program examines social structures, interactions, and institutions, providing a critical understanding of human society and social change.
    Field: Sociology
    Career outcomes: Social Worker, Community Organizer, Researcher, Policy Analyst
  • Business and Enterprise Management (BSc) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · Scholarship available
    This program provides a strong foundation in business principles, including finance, marketing, and operations, preparing students for diverse roles in the corporate world.
    Field: Business
    Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Marketing Specialist, Financial Advisor
  • Mathematical Business (BSc) — 48 months · English · $62,000/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    This interdisciplinary program combines rigorous mathematical training with core business principles, preparing students for analytical roles in finance, consulting, and data science.
    Field: Mathematical Business
    Career outcomes: Quantitative Analyst, Financial Engineer, Data Scientist

Master Programs (15)

  • Divinity (MDiv) — 36 months · English · $35,000/yr · Scholarship available
    This program prepares students for various forms of Christian ministry and leadership, focusing on theological studies, spiritual formation, and practical ministry skills.
    Field: Theology
    Career outcomes: Pastor, Chaplain, Non-profit Leader
  • Accountancy (MSA) — 10 months · English · $55,000/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    This program prepares students for careers in public accounting, corporate accounting, and other financial roles, focusing on advanced accounting principles, auditing, and taxation.
    Field: Accounting
    Career outcomes: Auditor, Tax Accountant, Financial Analyst, Controller
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) — 21 months · English · $65,000/yr · Scholarship available
    The MBA program develops strategic leaders with a strong understanding of global business challenges, emphasizing critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and practical application of business principles.
    Field: Business Administration
    Career outcomes: CEO, Consultant, Investment Banker, Product Manager
  • Business Analytics (MSBA) — 10 months · English · $58,000/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    The Master of Science in Business Analytics program equips students with the quantitative and analytical skills needed to interpret complex data and make informed business decisions.
    Field: Business Analytics
    Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Business Intelligence Analyst, Analytics Consultant
  • Management (MSM) — 10 months · English · $52,000/yr · Scholarship available
    Designed for non-business undergraduates, this program provides a comprehensive foundation in business principles, leadership, and management strategies.
    Field: Management
    Career outcomes: Project Manager, Consultant, Operations Manager
  • Health and Exercise Science (MS) — 24 months · English · $38,000/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    This program provides advanced knowledge in human physiology, biomechanics, and exercise psychology, preparing students for careers in health promotion, research, and clinical settings.
    Field: Health and Exercise Science
    Career outcomes: Exercise Physiologist, Clinical Researcher, Health Educator
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 21 months · English · $65,000/yr · Scholarship available
    The MBA program develops strategic leaders with a strong understanding of global business, finance, marketing, and operations, preparing them for executive roles.
    Field: Business Administration
    Career outcomes: CEO, CFO, Marketing Director, Consultant
  • Education (MA) — 12 months · English · $30,000/yr · Scholarship available
    The Master of Arts in Education offers specializations in areas like elementary education, secondary education, and educational leadership, preparing educators for diverse roles.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: Teacher, School Administrator, Curriculum Developer
  • Counseling (MA) — 24 months · English · $40,000/yr · Scholarship available
    The Master of Arts in Counseling prepares students to become licensed professional counselors, specializing in clinical mental health or school counseling.
    Field: Counseling
    Career outcomes: Licensed Professional Counselor, School Counselor, Therapist
  • Translational Science (MS) — 24 months · English · $45,000/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    The Master of Science in Translational Science focuses on bridging basic scientific discoveries with clinical applications, preparing students for careers in biomedical research and development.
    Field: Translational Science
    Career outcomes: Clinical Research Coordinator, Medical Science Liaison, Biotech Researcher
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 21 months · English · $65,000/yr · Scholarship available
    The MBA program develops strategic leaders with a strong understanding of global business, finance, marketing, and operations, preparing them for executive roles.
    Field: Business Administration
    Career outcomes: CEO, CFO, Marketing Director, Consultant
  • Education (MA) — 12 months · English · $30,000/yr · Scholarship available
    The Master of Arts in Education offers specializations in areas like elementary education, secondary education, and educational leadership, preparing educators for diverse roles.
    Field: Education
    Career outcomes: Teacher, School Administrator, Curriculum Developer
  • Counseling (MA) — 24 months · English · $40,000/yr · Scholarship available
    The Master of Arts in Counseling prepares students to become licensed professional counselors, specializing in clinical mental health or school counseling.
    Field: Counseling
    Career outcomes: Licensed Professional Counselor, School Counselor, Therapist
  • Translational Science (MS) — 24 months · English · $45,000/yr · STEM · Scholarship available
    The Master of Science in Translational Science focuses on bridging basic scientific discoveries with clinical applications, preparing students for careers in biomedical research and development.
    Field: Translational Science
    Career outcomes: Clinical Research Coordinator, Medical Science Liaison, Biotech Researcher
  • Divinity (MDiv) — 36 months · English · $35,000/yr · Scholarship available
    This program prepares students for various forms of Christian ministry and leadership, focusing on theological studies, spiritual formation, and practical ministry skills.
    Field: Theology
    Career outcomes: Pastor, Chaplain, Non-profit Leader

PhD Programs (5)

  • Law (SJD) — 36 months · English · Scholarship available
    The Doctor of Juridical Science (S.J.D.) is a post-LL.M. research degree designed for aspiring legal scholars and academics.
    Field: Law
    Career outcomes: Law Professor, Legal Scholar, Policy Advisor
  • Physics (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM · Scholarship available
    The PhD in Physics program provides comprehensive training in theoretical and experimental physics, with research opportunities in areas such as condensed matter, astrophysics, and biophysics.
    Field: Physics
    Career outcomes: Research Physicist, University Professor, Engineer
  • Mathematics (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM · Scholarship available
    This program offers advanced study and research in pure and applied mathematics, including areas like algebra, analysis, and topology.
    Field: Mathematics
    Career outcomes: University Professor, Mathematician, Data Scientist
  • Biomedical Science (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM · Scholarship available
    This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in various areas of biomedical science, including cancer biology, neuroscience, and regenerative medicine, preparing students for academic and research careers.
    Field: Biomedical Science
    Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Biotech Specialist
  • Chemistry (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM · Scholarship available
    The PhD in Chemistry program offers advanced study and research opportunities in analytical, inorganic, organic, physical, and computational chemistry.
    Field: Chemistry
    Career outcomes: Research Chemist, University Professor, Pharmaceutical Scientist

Scholarships & Tuition at Wake Forest University

Annual tuition for international students: $38,650 – $70,332/year

✅ Wake Forest University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Wake Forest University

  • National Ranking: #46 in United States
  • QS World University Ranking: #791
  • Times Higher Education (THE): #401
  • Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #501
  • Ranking tier: Research University
  • Research output: Very High

Campus & Facilities at Wake Forest University

  • Student housing available
  • Sports facilities available
  • Disability support available
  • Campus type: Suburban
  • Average class size: 10

Key Highlights

  • Strong liberal arts education
  • Notable Business School programs
  • Beautiful Georgian campus architecture
  • Vibrant Winston-Salem location
  • Excellent faculty-to-student ratio

Accreditation

  • SACS

Notable Alumni

  • C. Forrest Faison III
  • Pat Foote
  • Richard Dietz
  • Michael Curry

Frequently Asked Questions about Wake Forest University

What is Wake Forest University?

Wake Forest University is a private university located in Winston Salem, United States. It has approximately 9,322 students.

How much does it cost to study at Wake Forest University?

Tuition fees at Wake Forest University for international students range from $38,650 – $70,332/year. Scholarships are available for international students.

What are the admission requirements for Wake Forest University?

IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 79. Duolingo minimum: 115. GPA minimum: 3.9. Application fee: $85. Selectivity: Very Selective (&lt;20%). Application deadline: January 1.

What language are courses taught in at Wake Forest University?

Courses at Wake Forest University are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.

How many programs does Wake Forest University offer?

Wake Forest University offers 46 programs: 26 Bachelor's, 15 Master's, and 5 PhD programs across various fields of study.

What is Wake Forest University ranked?

#46 in United States · QS World #791 · THE World #401 · ARWU #501.

Does Wake Forest University offer scholarships?

Yes, Wake Forest University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.

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