Dreaming of becoming a Demon Deacon at Wake Forest University? You’ve got excellent taste! But here’s the truth: Wake Forest isn’t handing out acceptance letters like candy. For the Class of 2028, only 22% of applicants earned that coveted “you’re in” letter. That means you need to bring more than ambition. You need a plan.

This guide is your playbook. From your GPA and test scores to essays and extracurriculars, we’re breaking down every factor Wake Forest considers. Ready to show Wake Forest why you belong on their stunning campus? Let’s get into it and make your application unforgettable.

• How Hard Is It to Get into Wake Forest?
• Wake Forest Admission Requirements
• Wake Forest GPA Requirements
• Wake Forest SAT Requirements
• Wake Forest ACT Requirements
• How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Into Wake Forest
• Wake Forest Application Deadlines
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Hard Is It to Get into Wake Forest?

Wake Forest University is no walk in the park when it comes to admissions. With 18,735 applicants and a 22% acceptance rate, approximately 4,122 students were admitted. Wake Forest maintains its status as a highly selective institution.

Wondering how Wake Forest’s acceptance rates have changed over the years? Here’s the breakdown:

See the trend? Wake Forest keeps things competitive, but don’t let the numbers rattle you. With a strategic approach, a compelling application, and a little determination, you can show Wake Forest why you’re the perfect fit.

Wake Forest Admission Requirements

Applying to Wake Forest is straightforward, but don’t mistake straightforward for easy. This is a school that values depth, commitment, and individuality, so your application needs to reflect that. Here’s the lowdown on what you’ll need to submit:

• High school transcript. Wake Forest wants to see a rigorous curriculum, showcasing your academic curiosity. Think advanced courses like AP, IB, or honors to prove you’re up for the challenge.
• Letters of recommendation. You’ll need one from your school counselor (optional) and one teacher who knows you best. Make sure they can vouch for your intellectual spark and dedication.
• Essays (optional). This is where you shine. Wake Forest uses its essay prompts to uncover who you really are beyond grades and test scores. Be bold, be vulnerable, and let them see what makes you tick.
• Extracurricular activities. They’re not looking for a laundry list. Instead, show depth and passion in a few activities you truly care about. Leadership roles or meaningful impacts? Even better.
• Test scores (optional). Wake Forest has been test-optional for years. If you’re submitting scores, strong numbers will only help. If not, focus on the other areas of your application that highlight your strengths.
• Mid-year and final reports (optional). Senior year isn’t the time to slack off. Wake Forest also strongly encourages applicants to participate in a virtual interview with the admissions staff. This interview provides a great opportunity to showcase your personality, interests, and enthusiasm for the university.

On the academic side, they’re looking for students who’ve taken challenging courses, excelled in their GPA, and crafted thoughtful essays that showcase who they are beyond numbers. Rigor, class rank, and essays? Super important. Test scores? Optional but can give you a boost if submitted. And don’t forget solid recommendation letters! They help round out your academic story.

Now, when it comes to the non-academic side, they’re looking at everything that makes you you. Extracurricular activities, talents, and personal character are all important, so don’t hold back on showcasing your passions.

First-generation status or alumni connections? Definitely considered. And yes, your geographical location and state residency are taken into account, but here’s the deal—they’re not dealbreakers. Think of them as a layer of context, not the centerpiece of your application. In the end, it’s all about how you tell your story and what you bring to the table that really matters.

High school coursework requirements

Your high school transcript tells a story: one of academic preparation and drive. At Wake Forest, here’s what they want to see:

• 4 years of English
• 3-4 years of Mathematics
• 1-4 years of Science
• 2-4 years of Social Studies
• 2-4 years of Foreign Language
• 16 total academic units required

If you’ve got those advanced-level courses in your transcript, you’re showing the admissions team that you’re ready for the academic rigor awaiting you. And hey, academics aren’t everything. Wake Forest University takes a holistic approach to admissions.

Wake Forest GPA Requirements

So, what GPA do you need to get into Wake Forest? While Wake Forest doesn’t officially set a minimum GPA, let’s be real: your grades need to be strong to stay competitive.

Wake Forest average GPA

Wake Forest doesn’t officially publish GPA data, but they do provide class rank information. Based on the Wake Forest’s Common Data Set for 2023–2024, here’s how Wake Forest students rank:

• 67% of admitted students were in the top 10% of their high school graduating class.
• 91% were in the top 25%.
• 98% were in the top 50%.

Meaning? The majority of Wake Forest students were academic powerhouses in high school. If your school doesn’t rank students, don’t sweat it. Wake Forest takes a holistic approach to admissions and evaluates every part of your application.

While Wake Forest doesn’t provide a strict GPA cutoff, aiming for a GPA around 3.9 or higher is a good target to stay competitive. It’s a benchmark for those hoping to stand out academically. So, if you’re in that range, you’re on the right track.

But don’t forget that Wake Forest isn’t all about numbers. So, if you’re slightly below that GPA mark, don’t stress. Use your essays, extracurriculars, and unique qualities to show Wake Forest why you’re a perfect fit for their community.

Wake Forest SAT Requirements

Wake Forest doesn’t have a strict SAT requirement, but if you choose to submit scores, they need to be competitive. Since Wake Forest is test-optional, submitting scores is completely up to you. That said, strong scores can give your application an extra edge and demonstrate your readiness for the academic challenges Wake Forest has to offer.

Wake Forest average SAT

According to Wake Forest’s latest Common Data Set, here are the usual SAT scores of students submitting their scores:

Here’s a deeper look at the section scores:

Wake Forest isn’t messing around when it comes to SAT scores. The majority of students who submit their scores are seriously crushing it. For the EBRW section, a whopping 74.7% of students scored between 700 and 800. Over on the Math section, an impressive 80% hit that same top tier. Talk about a high-achieving crowd!

As for composite scores, 84.5% of students landed between 1400 and 1600. These folks are bringing their A-game. Another 14.9% scored in the 1200–1399 range, and for scores below 1200? That’s rare territory, with only 0.6% of students scoring below this mark.

What does all this mean for you? If you’re submitting SAT scores to Wake Forest, aim high—like 1500+ high. But remember, Wake Forest takes a holistic approach, so don’t stress if your numbers aren’t off-the-charts. Your essays, extracurriculars, and personal story can still help you shine.

Does Wake Forest require SAT?

Good news: Wake Forest is test-optional! That means you get to decide whether your SAT or ACT scores make a cameo on your application. If your scores are standout (think 1500+ on the SAT), they can give your application a nice boost. But if standardized tests aren’t where you shine, no worries. Wake Forest has a holistic admissions process.

Wake Forest ACT Requirements

Wake Forest doesn’t have a strict ACT cutoff, but if you’re planning to submit your scores, you’ll need to bring your A-game. The ACT is your golden opportunity to show Wake Forest that you can handle their rigorous academics—and maybe flex a little while you’re at it.

Wake Forest average ACT

According to Wake Forest’s latest Common Data Set, here’s a breakdown of ACT scores for admitted students:

Wake Forest didn’t publish the score breakdowns for the individual sections, but when it comes to score distribution, Wake Forest’s admitted students are top-tier performers. A whopping 94.3% of admitted students scored between 30 and 36 on the ACT Composite, with only a tiny fraction (5.7%) landing between 24 and 29. Not a single admitted student scored below 24, so you know the competition is stiff.

To stay competitive, aim for a composite score of 34 or higher, with strong performances in English and Math. But don’t stress if your scores are a bit shy of the mark! Wake Forest takes a holistic approach to admissions, meaning your essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations carry plenty of weight too.

Does Wake Forest prefer the ACT or SAT?

Neither! Wake Forest doesn’t play favorites. Whichever one you choose to submit, Wake Forest will give your scores the same level of attention.

The cherry on top? They superscore! This means they’ll take your highest section scores across multiple test dates and combine them for a composite score that shows off your best performance. So, if you’ve taken the ACT a couple of times, all those late-night study sessions might just pay off with a superscore that gives your application an extra edge.

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting Into Wake Forest

Getting into Wake Forest is no walk in the park (more like a walk in a forest while it’s pouring rain). This prestigious and competitive school attracts some of the brightest students across the country. But don’t worry! Armed with the right approach, you can craft an application that shines. Here’s your game plan:

1. Keep your GPA in tip-top shape.

Wake Forest expects academic excellence, and most of its admitted students come from the top 10% of their high school graduating classes. Aim for a GPA of 3.9 or higher to stay competitive. Show off a challenging course load with AP, IB, or honors classes to prove you’re ready for the rigor of college academics.

That said, Wake Forest understands that no one is perfect. If you’ve had a dip in your GPA, focus on showcasing growth. For example, if you struggled with a subject early on but later excelled, it highlights resilience and your willingness to improve.

What if you’re finding a particular subject tough? Don’t shy away from getting help. Join study groups, seek tutoring, or work on developing effective study habits. Taking the initiative to improve will only work in your favor.

2. Submit strong test scores (if you choose to).

Wake Forest is proudly test-optional, meaning you’re in control of whether to include SAT or ACT scores. If you’ve scored well, submitting them can give your application an extra boost.

For reference, the middle 50% of admitted students typically score between:

• SAT Composite: 1410–1500
• ACT Composite: 33–35

To stay competitive, aim for the higher end of these ranges.

Not quite there yet? Don’t worry. Use test prep tools to target your weak areas and practice consistently. If needed, consider working with a private tutor. Remember, Wake Forest superscores, so they’ll take your best section scores across multiple test dates for a stronger composite.

If tests aren’t your thing, don’t stress. Focus on the other pieces of your application—essays, recommendations, and extracurriculars—to tell your story.

3. Write essays that wow.

Your essays are the heart of your application, especially at a school like Wake Forest that values individuality and creativity. This is your chance to step beyond numbers and showcase who you are as a person.

Wake Forest essay prompts

Wake Forest’s supplemental essay prompts include:

• List five books you’ve read that have intrigued you.

• Explain how a text you’ve read has helped you understand the world’s complexity.

• What piques your intellectual curiosity, and why?

• Give us your Top Ten list. (The choice of theme is yours.) (Limit: 100 characters per line)

These prompts invite creativity and reflection, so use them to paint a picture of your interests and values. Whether you’re passionate about literature, social justice, or space exploration, make your answers authentic and unique to you.

And here’s a pro tip: start early! Thoughtful essays take time, so give yourself plenty of room to brainstorm, draft, and edit.

Want to know more about tackling each prompt? Check out our go-to guide on Wake Forest supplemental essays!

4. Crush it in your extracurriculars.

Wake Forest wants to see applicants who aren’t just book-smart but also community-minded, innovative, and driven to make a difference. It’s a place that values community, inclusion, and open-mindedness.

But don’t think you need to be involved in everything under the sun. Quality beats quantity every time. Instead of joining every club in sight, focus on a few activities that show your commitment to making a difference.

For instance, maybe you organized a cultural event that brought together people from different backgrounds to promote understanding and inclusion. Did you volunteer at a local nonprofit that addresses food insecurity or start a book club that discusses diverse perspectives? Those are the kinds of initiatives Wake Forest values.

It’s not about being a part of everything; it’s about the depth of your involvement and the story behind it. Show Wake Forest how your actions reflect your desire to create a more inclusive, connected world. Highlight the moments when you reached out, built bridges, or helped others feel seen and valued.

5. Nail your recommendations.

Wake Forest requires just one teacher recommendation. A counselor recommendation is optional, but you can submit one if you feel it will strengthen your application. These letters are your chance to show who you are beyond grades and test scores, offering a glimpse of your character, work ethic, and the contributions you make in the classroom.

When choosing a teacher to write your recommendation, go for someone who knows you well and can speak to your growth and achievements. Ideally, this should be someone who’s taught you in a core academic subject and can provide specific examples of your strengths.

To make their job easier, give them a brag sheet that highlights your accomplishments, goals, and the qualities you’d like emphasized in their letter. And don’t forget: expressing gratitude goes a long way. A heartfelt thank-you note or any token of appreciation after they’ve written your letter is a meaningful way to show your appreciation.

6. Consider applying Early Decision (ED).

If Wake Forest is your dream school, going the Early Decision route could give you an edge. Wake Forest doesn’t spill the tea on their ED stats, but here’s the deal: applying early at most schools typically boosts your chances. ED applicants usually see higher acceptance rates than those who wait for Regular Decision (RD), so why not get ahead of the game?

To give you an idea, look at other top schools like Cornell and UPenn. At Cornell, the ED acceptance rate was 16.7%, compared to just 6.2% for Regular Decision. UPenn’s numbers are similar: 14.9% for ED and only 4.4% for RD. While Wake Forest doesn’t share these specifics, applying early can make a difference.

But remember, ED is a binding agreement. If you’re in, you’re going. So make sure Wake Forest is your ride-or-die before committing. If you’ve done your homework, visited campus (even virtually), and feel like it’s “the one,” ED could be the way to go.

Even with ED, it’s still competitive, so your application needs to bring the heat. Showcase your passions, your fit with their community, and why Wake is the perfect place for you. If you’re ready to make it official, ED might just be your golden ticket!

Wake Forest Application Deadlines

Miss one deadline, and you could miss your shot at joining the amazing Wake Forest community. But don’t worry, we’ve got the dates you need right here:

If Wake Forest is your #1 choice, Early Decision I (November 15) or Early Decision II (January 1) might be your move. Both options are binding, so if you’re accepted, it’s official—you’re heading to Wake Forest! ED I decisions come in on a rolling basis, while ED II applicants hear back by February 15.

Prefer to keep your options open? The Regular Decision deadline is January 1, with decisions out by April 1. You’ll have until May 1 to make your final call.

Whatever path you take, just keep those dates front and center, and you’ll be ready to crush it!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get into Wake Forest with low test scores?

If your SAT or ACT scores aren’t quite where Wake Forest’s typical range falls (SAT 1410–1500 or ACT 33–34), don’t sweat it. Wake Forest is test-optional, so you can choose not to submit scores if they don’t represent your abilities. Instead, focus on showcasing your strengths in other areas, like essays, extracurricular activities, and recommendation letters. A well-rounded application can still make you a strong candidate.

2. What are Wake Forest’s GPA requirements for admission?

Wake Forest doesn’t officially set a minimum GPA, but most admitted students boast stellar academic records. Aiming for a GPA around 3.9 will help you stay competitive. Taking challenging courses, such as AP, IB, or honors, can further strengthen your application. If your GPA isn’t as high, you can still stand out with exceptional essays, leadership in extracurriculars, and solid recommendations.

3. Is Wake Forest test-optional?

Yes, Wake Forest is test-optional. This means you don’t have to submit SAT or ACT scores if you feel they don’t reflect your abilities. If you have strong scores, submitting them can add an extra layer of competitiveness to your application. But if standardized tests aren’t your thing, don’t worry. Wake Forest reviews applications holistically, placing significant emphasis on your GPA, essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations.

4. What does Wake Forest look for in applicants?

Wake Forest seeks students who are not just academically driven but also engaged with their communities. The university values intellectual curiosity, leadership, open-mindedness, and inclusion. Whether it’s excelling in rigorous courses, volunteering locally, or participating in clubs that promote diversity, Wake Forest appreciates students who demonstrate they’re more than just a number.

5. How much does it cost to attend Wake Forest?

For the 2024–2025 academic year, Wake Forest’s tuition is $67,642 per year. When factoring in room and board, books, and other fees, the total cost of attendance is around $91,266 annually. The good news? Wake Forest meets 100% of demonstrated financial need, so financial aid may significantly lower that amount based on your unique circumstances.

Takeaways

Figuring out how to get into Wake Forest? Don’t stress. Here’s the game plan to help you stand out:

• Wake Forest is competitive with about a 22% acceptance rate, but it’s not all about grades and test scores. Show them who you are beyond the numbers. Highlight how you’ll fit in with their values like intellectual curiosity, character, and community.
• Aim for a GPA around 3.9 or higher and take on challenging courses like AP, IB, or honors. Wake Forest loves students who push themselves academically and rise to the occasion.
• Test scores are optional, but if you’re sending them in, aim for at least a 1500 on the SAT or a 34 on the ACT. Strong scores can give your application a nice boost.
• Essays and extracurriculars are where you let your personality shine. Share your passions, talk about the impact you’ve made, and show why Wake Forest feels like home. Let your community spirit and open-mindedness take the spotlight.
• Feeling overwhelmed? Relax! A college admissions consultant can help you polish your application, highlight your strengths, and get you one step closer to joining the Wake Forest family. You’ve got this!