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Western Carolina University

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Western Carolina University

Cullowhee, NC

Public

University

Website

Nestled in the picturesque Appalachian Mountains, Western Carolina University offers a vibrant and dynamic learning environment. It is a place where students find inspiration both inside and outside the classroom amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
11,628
Students
86%
Acceptance Rate
Undergrads
10,009
Classification
University
Type
Public, State
Religious Affiliation
None
Website
Western Carolina University is steeped in a rich tradition of academic excellence and community involvement. With a curriculum that emphasizes hands-on experience and a faculty dedicated to fostering growth and innovation, students are prepared to face the challenges of an evolving world. The university fosters a close-knit community where collaboration and support are at the forefront of the educational experience. Beyond academics, a host of extracurricular activities and athletic programs provide a well-rounded student life, ensuring that everyone finds their niche on campus.

Admissions

Do you have the credentials necessary to get into Western Carolina University?

86% acceptance rate
Less Selective
Admission Standards
Grades & Testing
Average SAT score
Unknown
Testing
Test Optional
Average High School GPA
3.41
Application Deadlines
Regular Application Deadline
February 1
Early Decision / Early Action?
No

The most important factors Western Carolina University considers when admitting students are:

  • Academic GPA
  • Class Rank
  • Rigor of Secondary School Record

Financials

See what it costs to attend Western Carolina University.

$ 23,237
In-state list price
$ 27,237
Out-of-state list price
$ 12,252
Average net price
$ 21,414
Merit Price™
Stingy
Merit Meter™

Social & Lifestyle

What's it like attending Western Carolina University?

Rural
Campus Setting
Republican
State vote for president
Weather
Sunny days
Sunny

Academics

What to expect in the classroom at Western Carolina University.

11:1
Student to faculty ratio
59%
6-year grad rate

The most popular majors at Western Carolina are:

  • Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
  • Business Administration and Management, General
  • Criminal Justice/Safety Studies

Demographics

Who attends Western Carolina University?

Yes
State DEI laws
Student Body
Students
11,628
Women
56%
Men
44%

Housing

What's it like living at Western Carolina University?

$11,545
Room & Board

FAQs

What GPA is needed to get into Western Carolina University?

The average GPA of the most recently accepted class was 3.41.

How much does Western Carolina University cost?

For the most recent year, it cost $23,237 to attend Western Carolina.

How many people attend Western Carolina University?

11,628 people attend Western Carolina. 10,009 are undergraduate students and 1,619 are graduate students.

Where is Western Carolina University located?

Western Carolina University is located in Cullowhee, North Carolina. It is in a Rural environment.

Can I get into Western Carolina University with a 3.5 GPA?

In the most recent class of admissions, 49% of students submitted a 3.5 GPA or higher.

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CollegeIQ relies on data from government and private resources. Always confer with the individual college or university for the most recent data. Learn more about our data and methodology.

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