Western Carolina University

Cullowhee, NC • public • I | Southern Conference

Overview Demographics Admissions Outcomes Cost & Aid 🏈 Athletics 🚗 Travel

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Overview

Institution Type

public

Campus Setting

Town (Distant)

Student Population

Undergrad: 11,291 • Total: 13,206

Academic Calendar

Semester

Address

Cullowhee, NC
📍 View on Google Maps

Website

www.wcu.edu

Region

Southeast

Carnegie Classification

D/PU: Doctoral/Professional Universities

Student Demographics

Gender Distribution

Male: 4,767 (42.2%) • Female: 6,524 (57.8%)

Admissions & Selectivity

Acceptance Rate

86.7%

15,758 admitted from 18,183 applicants

SAT Score Range (25th-75th percentile)

Reading: 540-650
Math: 510-610
Total: 1050-1260

ACT Composite Range (25th-75th percentile)

20-26

Application Types Offered

EA RD

Application Requirements

—

Application Fee

$65

Financial Aid Forms

FAFSA only

Deadlines

EA:	11/1/2025
RD:	2026-02-01

Academic Outcomes

6-Year Graduation Rate

59.1%

4-Year Graduation Rate

41.4%

Freshman Retention Rate

76.0%

Cost & Financial Aid

Total Cost of Attendance (2022-23)

In-State

$16,684

Tuition + Room & Board + Books

Out-of-State

$20,684

Tuition + Room & Board + Books

Annual Tuition & Fees (2022-23)

In-state: $1,000
Out-of-state: $5,000

Room & Board

$12,354

Books & Supplies

$3,330

Students Receiving Pell Grants

35%

🏈 Athletics

NCAA Division

I

Conference

Southern Conference

Men's Sports (5)

Baseball (FCS) Basketball (FCS) Football (FCS) Golf (FCS) Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) (FCS)

Women's Sports (7)

Basketball Golf Soccer Softball Tennis Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) Volleyball

View Full Athletics Details (Roster Sizes, Scholarships) →

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Common questions about Western Carolina University

What is Western Carolina University's acceptance rate?

Western Carolina University accepts 87% of applicants, from 18,183 applications.

How much does Western Carolina University cost?

Tuition and fees are $1,000 in-state and $5,000 out-of-state.

What ACT score do you need for Western Carolina University?

The middle 50% of admitted students scored between 20 and 26 on the ACT.

What is Western Carolina University's graduation rate?

59% of students graduate within six years.