Crosby's Top 10 College Enrollment c/o 2026

Crosby’s Top 10 Colleges

by Enrollment

2026

The following school profiles highlight key enrollment and student population data for the Top 10 4-year schools that the class of 2026 Crosby Scholars chose to enroll.

Each write-up was created by Nakia McMillan, Mattie Reeves, and Breanna Chadwick based on campus visits in June and July of 2026. Our goal was to give advisors a quick feel for each campus by combining enrollment statistics with observations from our visits and conversations with current students and staff. The format was inspired by the narrative style used in the Fiske Guide to Colleges.

College Enrollment List for Class of 2026

NC State UNC Charlotte NC State University provides a career-oriented, hands-on academic environment with the premier engineering school making it the top public university for students pursuing a degree in engineering. Students interested in the engineering program must apply directly into the College of Engineering.

Students often choose NC State for its strong sense of community and school pride, and prospective applicants are encouraged to use tools like the Focus 2 career assessment to clarify interests, as well as ensure their application essays reflect their authentic voice. The university highlights several distinctive programs, including the Wilson College of Textiles, a top-ranked College of Veterinary Medicine, a unique food science program with on-campus production, and robust co-op opportunities that allow students to gain professional experience during the school year. Unless applying into the Exploratory Studies program, a program designed to help freshman find their ‘best fit’, students are required to apply directly into their major of choice.

Enrollment growth is being driven by majors such as animal science, psychology, political science, sport management, elementary education, and fashion and textile management. NC State’s campus is structured across three main areas, offering the resources of a large university while maintaining manageable class sizes, and first-year students are required to live on campus.

The university is closely tied to the city of Raleigh, giving students easy access to internships, entertainment, and city life, though transportation challenges include limited close parking. Student life is highly active, with over 700 student organizations creating opportunities for involvement and connection.

Support systems at NC State include strong pre-professional advising and programs like “First in the Pack,” which connects first-generation students to mentors and campus resources. Advisors should note that scholarships are not automatically awarded with admission and require a separate application through Pack Assist. While the university excels in experiential learning, academic diversity, and student engagement, considerations include parking limitations and the need for students to be proactive in securing financial aid.

Overall, NC State is a strong choice for students looking for a vibrant, appliedlearning environment with clear pathways to career development.

CAMPUS TRADITIONS

TOP PROGRAMS

Students who are seeking a bit of good luck on their next exam rub the head of the Strolling Professor statue, which is modeled after former NC State chemistry professor William R. Johnston.

Engineering Animal Science Elementary Education Fashion and Textile Management Political Science Psychology

QUICK FACTS 40,000 Students Undergraduates

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28,000

Financial Aid: More than 70% of NCST students receive financial aid.

Students receiving an average of nearly $17,000 in aid annually.

Number of Applicants: More than 49,000 students applied 2025-26 Acceptance Rate: 39% Admitted students typically have an SAT score between 1300 and 1470, or an ACT score between 28 and 32.

4 Year Graduation Rate: 85%

Retention Rate: 94%

AID FACTS When accepted to NC State - Students will apply to scholarships through PackASSIST. Students are not automatically considered for scholarships with their applications.

UNC Charlotte Charlotte UNC UNC Charlotte offers a strong academic environment within a modern, growing campus that highlights career readiness, applied learning, and community engagement.

Students are drawn to UNC Charlotte for its balance of being academically challenging and providing a supportive campus culture. UNC Charlotte stands out for its focus on innovation and hands-on experience, with a growing research and experiential learning programs across all majors. 4 of their most competitive programs include engineering, computer science, business, and nursing. Their newest offered major is Sports Analytics with UNC Charlotte being 1 of only 5 universities to offer this program. The university’s location being in Charlotte, NC, it creates strong opportunities for internships, networking, and career placement, particularly in fields like finance, business administration, and technology. While research opportunities are available and expanding, students are often encouraged to seek out internships, co-ops, and applied experiences as part of their academic journey – 90% of students do so before graduating. Campus life at UNC Charlotte is well-rounded, offering a mix of academic focus and social engagement through student organizations, campus events, and recreational activities. The campus itself is newer with a lot of new facilities and undergoing expansion. It’s a walkable campus however they do have a bus transportation system that students can use for free to get around campus. UNC Charlotte is deeply connected to the city of Charlotte, with easy access via public transportation, including the light rail system that runs directly through campus. This allows students to leave campus and explore the city of Charlotte, get different internships, go to restaurants, etc. without needing a car, however, first-year students are allowed to have their car on campus. From a student support perspective, UNC Charlotte offers a wide range of resources aimed at fostering student success and inclusion. Programs for first-generation students and first-year students, such as First Gen Niners and UTOP, provide mentorship and guidance, and the university supports diverse student populations through cultural centers, identity-based organizations, and academic support services. While UNC Charlotte continues to grow in resources, advisors should be aware of some student-reported challenges, including navigating a large campus, variability in advising quality, and the need for students to be proactive in securing competitive opportunities like internships or research roles. Overall, UNC Charlotte is best suited for motivated, independent students who are eager to build professional connections and engage with the opportunities of a major city while developing both academically and personally.

CAMPUS TRADITIONS The Rings: Near the College of Health and Human Services there are 4 silver rings. If students run through each rings without touching them in under 10 seconds, they will end the semester with a 4.0 GPA.

TOP PROGRAMS Nursing Engineering Business Computer Science

QUICK FACTS 32,000 Students Undergraduates

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26,000

Financial Aid: Nearly 75% of students receive financial aid which includes: grants, scholarships, loans, and work study.

Number of Applicants: More than 23,000 students applied 2025-26 Acceptance Rate: 80% Middle 50% GPA and test scores of admitted first year students: weighted GPA of 3.8 - 4.4 | ACT: 21-28 | SAT: 1120-1340 4 Year Graduation Rate: 5055.4% | 68-73% graduate within 6 years Retention Rate: 85.8%

AID FACTS When accepted to UNCC, students will have access to the NinerScholarships portal. This scholarship portal serves as a match base system where students will be matched with multiple scholarships that they can apply for.

UNC Charlotte Chapel Hill UNC UNC Chapel Hill presents a highly rigorous, academically strong environment paired with a deeply rooted sense of school pride and community, making it an ideal fit for self-driven students looking for both challenge and connection. Students are drawn to UNC for its spirited campus culture, particularly around athletics, and its ability to feel like a “home” within a large university setting. Academically, UNC stands out for its research emphasis, with 100% of students expected to engage in research before graduation, and growing programs in biology, psychology, media and journalism, business administration, and exercise and sports science. Campus life is described as well-rounded, with a balance between academics and social opportunities through frequent events and strong student involvement. UNC is highly integrated with its surrounding area, with downtown Chapel Hill directly connected to campus and accessible transportation to nearby cities like Durham and Raleigh—allowing students to remain active off-campus without needing a car. First-year students are required to live on campus their freshman year and cannot have cars. While upperclassmen often move to off-campus housing, which is widely available but can be expensive. From a student support perspective, UNC offers strong resources for diverse populations, including the Carolina Firsts program, which pairs first-generation students with mentors and tailored support systems, as well as a wide variety of clubs and organizations that foster inclusive communities for students of color and other identities.

Financially, UNC is a strong option for many students due to its commitment to meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need, though advisors should note that overall cost of living—especially housing—can be high. While UNC excels in academics, school spirit, and connectivity, advisors should also be aware of student concerns, including highly competitive housing, limited parking availability, and some challenges with STEM advising. Overall, UNC Chapel Hill is best suited for motivated students who are prepared to take initiative, engage in research, and immerse themselves in a vibrant, pride-filled campus community.

QUICK FACTS 32,000 Students Undergraduates

-

20,000

Financial Aid: More than 75% of UNC students receive financial aid.

Students receiving an average of nearly $16,320 in aid annually and students with demenstative need received $21,035 Number of Applicants: More than 84,000 students applied 2025-26 Acceptance Rate: 16% 43% Acceptance Rate of NC Residents

4 Year Graduation Rate: 84%

Retention Rate: 97%

CAMPUS TRADITIONS

TOP PROGRAMS

FUN FACTS

After winning a basketball game against rival, Duke, or a National Championship, the student body will all rush nearby Franklin Street to celebrate the Tar Heel victory!

Biology Psychology Media and Journalism Business Administration Exercise and Sports Science

Carolina First supports first-generation students by pairing them with faculty and staff mentors who were also first-gen, while connecting them to academic guidance, campus resources, and a strong support network to help them succeed.

Appalachian UNC CharlotteState Appalachian State University, commonly known as App State, offers a welcoming, academically strong environment that combines the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains with a close-knit campus community. Widely recognized for its commitment to sustainability and the environment, App State integrates eco-conscious practices throughout campus life and is known for its forward-thinking approach to environmental responsibility. Students often choose App State for its scenic campus, the vibrant town of Boone, and the ability to easily connect with friends both on campus and downtown.

Prospective applicants should explore the university's wide variety of academic offerings and consider whether its mountain location and campus culture align with their interests and lifestyle. The university offers more than 150 areas of study, with notable strengths in business, education, and psychology. First-year students are required to live on campus, and the university provides a supportive residential experience, including nine residential learning communities. App State is highly connected to the surrounding Boone community, with the free “AppalCart” bus system providing convenient access to locations such as Walmart, shopping centers, and other off-campus destinations. Student life is vibrant, with more than 400 clubs and organizations, strong school spirit, and large athletic events that foster a strong sense of community. Support systems include designation as a FirstGen Forward institution, the FirstGen Ascent residential learning community for first-generation students, and the Diversity Scholars Program, which is one of Appalachian's Signature Scholarship programs that offers mentorship, leadership development, service-learning, and cultural engagement opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds. App State is an excellent fit for students seeking a strong business program, an active campus community, and an outdoor-oriented lifestyle. App State is deeply connected to the local skiing culture in and around Boone. Students can earn physical education credits in skiing, join the competitive Appalachian State Ski Team, or take advantage of discounted night sessions.

Students should also be aware that mountain winters can be especially cold and windy, and some visitors noted that additional emergency call boxes would further enhance campus safety. Overall, Appalachian State is a strong choice for students looking for a supportive campus community, beautiful natural surroundings, and a well-rounded college experience that balances academics and student involvement

CAMPUS TRADITIONS After intense and crazy football games, App State students will all jump into the duck pond - located just down the hill from their stadium.

TOP PROGRAMS Business Education Psychology Communication

QUICK FACTS 22,000 Students Undergraduates

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20,000

Financial Aid: App State awards about 25 million dollars in scholarships each year.

25% of students graduate with zero college debt Number of Applicants: More than 24,000 students applied 2025-26 Acceptance Rate: 90% Admitted students typically have an SAT score between 1100 and 1270, or an ACT score between 22 and 28.

4 Year Graduation Rate: 56% 6 Year Graduation Rate: 71% Retention Rate: 84%

AID FACTS App State automatically considers students for many merit-based scholarships when they apply for admission by the priority deadline.

UNC Charlotte Greensboro UNC UNC Greensboro offers a welcoming and highly diverse university experience that combines affordability, academic opportunity, and strong community support. Students are often drawn to UNCG because of extensive alumni networks, faculty engagement, and inclusive campus culture. UNCG stands out for serving a large first-generation student population, having the highest percentage of Hispanic/Latino students in the UNC System, and providing financial aid to 79% of first-year students. Academically, UNCG provides more than 150 majors and concentrations, over 180 study abroad opportunities, and funded research experiences for more than 700 undergraduate students each year. One of its most distinctive offerings is its Deaf Interpreting program, the only undergraduate program in the Southeast specifically dedicated to supporting and advocating for individuals who are Deaf, Deafblind, or hard of hearing. Growth areas include Business Accounting, Biology, Psychology, Computer Science, and Human Health Sciences. The campus has a historic, red-brick feel and is well-suited for students looking for a diverse environment with school spirit extending beyond athletics. Housing is flexible, with no on-campus living requirement and 28 residence hall and apartment options available. UNCG also maintains strong ties to Greensboro, encouraging students to explore downtown, support alumni-owned businesses, and utilize Greensboro Transit throughout the city. With its combination of accessibility, affordability, cultural diversity, and academic opportunities, UNCG is a strong choice for students seeking a well-rounded college experience without the pressure of a highly competitive campus environment. UNCG is ideal for students who value diversity, affordability, flexibility, and hands-on opportunities, while still having access to a wide range of academic pathways, research experiences, and strong community support systems.

CAMPUS TRADITIONS An Apple for Minerva is a tradition surrounding UNCG’s Spartan Mascot.

Students who are looking for extra luck on their exams will take a bite out of an apple and leave it on her statue. They say the higher the apple is, the more wisdom you’ll get.

QUICK FACTS 18,682 Students Undergraduates

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15,000

Financial Aid: More than 84% of UNCG students receive financial aid.

Students receiving an average of nearly $9,800 in aid annually.

Number of Applicants: More than 26,000 students applied 2025-26 Acceptance Rate: 89% Admitted students typically have an SAT score of 1201, or an ACT score of 25

4 Year Graduation Rate: 40%

Retention Rate: 80%

TOP PROGRAMS

AID FACTS

Business Accounting Biology Psychology Computer Science Human Health Sciences

Many scholarships are awarded automatically as part of the admissions process for students who apply Early Admission. Current UNCG students can apply each spring for a variety of scholarships available through their specific academic departments.

NC A&T UNC Charlotte North Carolina A&T State University is known for their strong engineering, agriculture, and business programs making it the top producer of African-American engineers in the country. As the nation’s largest Historically Black College and University (HBCU), A&T offers a deep-rooted sense of tradition, school pride, and community with a large alumni network. Students benefit from strong industry partnerships and co-op programs that allows them to gain professional work experiences related to their majors, during the semester in place of classes. First-year students are encouraged to immerse themselves in campus life, which includes more than 150 student organizations, leadership opportunities, cultural programs, Greek life, athletics, service initiatives, and nationally recognized traditions. These experiences help students build meaningful connections and develop leadership skills outside the classroom. Student support is a significant strength at North Carolina A&T, with resources designed to promote academic achievement, career readiness, leadership development, and student engagement. Career Services offers assistance with internships, co-ops, resume development, mock interviews, and employer networking opportunities. Applying by the Early Action deadline gives students the best chance to get the most money from scholarships offered by the school. Students interested in the Honors College must apply Early Action and complete the separate Honors College application. Housing at North Carolina A&T is only guaranteed for first-year students and transfer students – it becomes extremely hard to get housing for the following years. Overall, North Carolina A&T is a great choice for students who want the HBCU experience and everything that comes with it even beyond graduation.

CAMPUS TRADITIONS All students go to the Stu the night before homecoming week starts to bring it in.

Aggie Eagle Classic (NCAT vs NCCU football game) Toughing the feet of the Greensboro 4 to graduate with a 4.0 GPA

TOP PROGRAMS Engineering Agriculture Business

QUICK FACTS 15,200 Students Undergraduates

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13,200

Financial Aid: Roughly 94% 96% students receive financial aid. This includes a mix of institutional, state, and federal grants

Number of Applicants: Over 30,000 students applied 2025-26 Acceptance Rate: 50%% Admitted students typically have an SAT score between 1030 and 1240, or an ACT score between 17 and 24.

4 Year Graduation Rate: Between 36% and 39% Retention Rate: 81%

AID FACTS Best way to receive the most money from NCAT is to apply by the Early Action deadline – most scholarship money is awarded during this time.

UNC Charlotte State Winston-Salem Winston-Salem State University offers a supportive, student-centered academic environment with a strong emphasis on community, accessibility, and student success. This makes it especially appealing to students seeking a close-knit experience of a smaller university. Students often choose WSSU because of its strong investment in student development, opportunities for social mobility, and the welcoming sense of belonging that comes from being part of the "Ramily."

Prospective applicants are encouraged to explore the university's academic offerings and scholarship opportunities early, particularly if they qualify for merit-based aid. WSSU is especially known for its highly regarded nursing program, while enrollment growth is also being driven by business and education majors. The university maintains a 14:1 student-to-faculty ratio, allowing students to build meaningful relationships with faculty and receive personalized support throughout their college experience. Students are guaranteed on-campus housing for 2 years. Located in the heart of Winston-Salem, WSSU is deeply connected to the surrounding community through outreach initiatives and service programs that positively impact the local area. Student life is highly active, with more than 100 student clubs and organizations, numerous campus traditions, and events that foster school pride while bringing together both current students and alumni. Support systems at WSSU include the First-Year Experience program, Ramdition New Student Orientation, Alumni Series Workshops, and Legacy Leader Mentor Groups, all of which help students build academic, personal, and professional connections. As a HBCU, WSSU also provides a culturally affirming environment that celebrates diversity while welcoming students from all backgrounds. Advisors should note that students must complete a single application through WSSU Scholarship Universe to be considered for more than 200 institutional scholarships, and merit scholarships are available for students with at least a 3.75 GPA who apply before the December priority deadline. Prospective students should be aware that additional campus renovations, expanded dining options, and increased parking are areas identified for future improvement. Overall, Winston-Salem State University is an excellent choice for students seeking a supportive, community-focused college experience with strong academic programs, meaningful traditions, and a commitment to student success both inside and outside the classroom - all close to home.

CAMPUS TRADITIONS “Through the Archway” is a formal rite of passage during orientation where new students wear professional black attire and walk through the historic campus arches.

This signifies their official transition from "Lambs" to "Rams"

TOP PROGRAMS Nursing Business Education

QUICK FACTS 5,000 Students Undergraduates

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4,200

Financial Aid: approximately 85% of WSSU students receive financial aid. 75% of students receive Pell Grants

Number of Applicants: About 11,000 students applied 2025-26 Acceptance Rate: 78% Admitted students typically have an average SAT score of 920, or an average ACT score of 16.

4 Year Graduation Rate: 35%

Retention Rate: 77%

AID FACTS Students must apply for scholarships through the WSSU Scholarship Universe.

It’s 1 application for more than 200 scholarships.

WakeCharlotte Forest UNC Wake Forest University offers an exceptional balance of rigorous academics, strong student support, and a close-knit campus community. Students cited the university’s strong alumni network, outstanding study abroad opportunities, highly regarded pre-med programs, and deep sense of school pride as key reasons for choosing Wake Forest. As a Division I ACC institution, Wake combines the excitement of high-level athletics with a smaller-campus feel, attracting students from across North Carolina and around the country. The campus itself is highly walkable and easy to navigate, while its strong connection to Winston-Salem provides students with opportunities to engage both on and off campus. Wake is an excellent fit for students who want personal attention in the classroom, with a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio and an academic model that encourages exploration.

Students do not declare a major until the end of their sophomore year, giving them the flexibility to discover new interests while benefiting from a well-rounded liberal arts education that includes coursework outside their primary field of study.

Enrollment growth is particularly strong in Business, STEM, and Politics. Students are required to live on campus for their first three years in residence halls that have been renovated within the last decade, helping to foster a strong sense of belonging. With more than 250 student organizations, active Greek life, service initiatives, and regular campus events, students have countless opportunities to get involved. Wake also encourages students to explore frequent shuttle services throughout Winston-Salem. Wake Forest Downtown is an extension of Wake Forest classrooms in downtown Winston Salem, giving students a change of scenery.

Financially, Wake Forest meets 100% of demonstrated need, making the university a realistic option for many students who may not initially consider a private institution. The university also provides dedicated support for first-generation students through programs such as First in the Forest, while its wide range of student organizations creates strong communities for students of color. The primary area students identified for improvement was greater ADA accessibility across campus. Overall, Wake Forest is a strong fit for academically driven students seeking personalized learning, meaningful faculty connections, a vibrant campus community, and opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom through global experiences, community engagement, and a powerful alumni network.

CAMPUS TRADITIONS Students at Wake Forest celebrate their wins by tee-peeing the trees on the Quad. Don’t worry! Wake Forest provides their students bio degradable toilot paper for this occasion. Whether big or small, this tradition brings students together to celebrate victories.

TOP PROGRAMS Political Science Business STEM Fields Biomedical Science

QUICK FACTS 9,300 Students Undergraduates

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5,490

Financial Aid: Wake Forest meeting 100% of demonstrated need from students

Number of Applicants: More than 18,735 students applied 2025-26 Acceptance Rate: 20.8% Admitted students typically have an SAT score between 1410 and 1520, or an ACT score between 32 and 34.

4 Year Graduation Rate: 84%

Retention Rate: 94%

AID FACTS Wake Forest requires students to submit a FAFSA and a CSS profile with their application. Wake Forests merit aid is extremely competive with only 3% of students recieving merit aid.

UNC Charlotte Wilmington UNC UNC Wilmington offers an experience that blends academics, career preparation, and coastal living in a way few UNC universities can. Students are often drawn to UNCW because of its proximity to the Wrightsville Beach (approximately 20 minutes away by car), the Wilmington community, and the opportunity to enjoy an active lifestyle while earning their degree. The campus is expansive and surrounded by greenery. One of UNCW's biggest strengths is how its location enhances its academic offerings, especially for Marine Biology and Film Studies. Marine Biology continues to be one of the university's most popular and fast-growing programs, while Nursing, Criminology, and Business also attract large numbers of students. For students interested in innovative STEM fields, UNCW's Intelligence Systems Engineering program is a hidden gem. This unique degree combines traditional engineering with artificial intelligence, robotics, and machine learning, making it one of the first programs of its kind in the nation. Another lesser-known point of pride is UNCW's Division I Beach Volleyball program, a fitting opportunity given the university's coastal setting. Student life is heavily influenced by the surrounding environment. UNCW has 19 Division 1 teams but does not have a football team. Many students spend weekends at the beach, exploring Wilmington, or participating in the university's 260+ student organizations.

The campus also hosts more than 500 international students, contributing to a diverse and globally minded community. First-generation students can find support through the Seahawks First program, which helps connect students with resources and engagement opportunities throughout their time at UNCW. Housing is guaranteed and required for both freshmen and sophomores, helping students build connections early in their college careers. Freshman are allowed to have their car on campus and students also have access to use the Seahawk shuttle and the Wilmington Wave to explore the surrounding Wilmington area. UNCW is an excellent fit for students who want a college experience that extends to a coastal location, growing academic programs, unique offerings, strong student involvement, and connection to Wilmington's vibrant community, UNCW provides a distinctive environment for students seeking both academic and personal growth.

CAMPUS TRADITIONS Incoming freshman kick off the new year by unvailing their class flag, gathering for their traditonal class photo, and making the trek to the Trask Coliseum for the formal convocation ceremony.

TOP PROGRAMS Marine Biology Business STEM Majors Nursing Education

QUICK FACTS 19,000 Students Undergraduates

-

15,000

Financial Aid: More than 70% of NCST students receive financial aid.

Students receiving an average of nearly $17,000 in aid annually.

Number of Applicants: More than 20,000 students applied 2025-26 Acceptance Rate: 64% Admitted students typically have an SAT score between 1230-1340, or an ACT score between 24 and 39.

4 Year Graduation Rate: 64%

Retention Rate: 88%

AID FACTS Students are automatically selected for merit based scholarships at UNCW. They do have to apply for other types of scholarships through their MySeahawk portal opening Decemeber 1st and before March 1st

Western Carolina Western Carolina University (WCU) is a hidden gem nestled in the mountains of Western North Carolina, featuring a scenic, spread-out campus that feels spacious while still being easy for students to navigate on foot. With academic buildings and majors organized throughout different parts of campus, students get a balance of natural beauty, open space, and a close-knit community atmosphere.

Students are drawn to WCU for its affordability through the NC Promise program, its strong sense of safety and community, and its stunning outdoor setting. WCU is known for its generous merit aid given to students apart of the honors college.

Academically, WCU stands out for its hands-on advising approach, first-year students receive personalized course registration before even stepping onto campus and benefit from ongoing mentorship and dedicated advising support, making the transition to college smoother. Popular and growing programs include psychology and forensic science, along with standout programs like Cherokee language, engineering, and health sciences. Student life is vibrant and inclusive, with over 100 clubs, frequent campus events, and a diverse Greek life that offers a range of ways for students to get involved and find their community. Freshmen and sophomores are required to live on campus, giving students plenty of opportunities to build community early on. WCU offers a mix of newer residence halls and traditional housing options, along with plenty of accessible off-campus housing for upperclassmen once they are eligible to move off campus. While many students enjoy the newer dorm spaces, some students note that a few of the older residence halls do not have air conditioning. Outside the classroom, students take full advantage of a program they call Base Camp Cullowhee, which provides gear and trips for outdoor adventures like hiking, rafting, and skiing.

While the campus is more rural, students are close to essentials and deeply connected to the surrounding mountain environment. Additionally, places like Atlanta, GA are less than 3 hours from campus and Asheville, NC being 1 hour away from campus. Overall, WCU is a fantastic fit for students who love the outdoors, want strong advising and mentorship support, and are looking for an affordable, community-focused college experience.

CAMPUS TRADITIONS During the first football game of the season, freshman will all run across the football field with the Dean of the university while the “Pride of the Mountains” plays!

TOP PROGRAMS Nursing Education Psychology Forensic Science Parks and Recreation

QUICK FACTS 11,000 Students Undergraduates

-

9,000

Financial Aid: More than 83% of WCU students receive financial aid.

Students receiving an average of nearly $6,000 in aid annually, including about $5,800 in federal grant aid Number of Applicants: More than 19,000 students applied 2025-26 Acceptance Rate: 82% Admitted students typically have an SAT score between 1080 and 1270, or an ACT score between 19 and 25.

4 Year Graduation Rate: 61%

Retention Rate: 82%

AID FACTS The WCU Engage Scholarship rewards students who show involvement and demonstrative interest in WCU through campus engagement, applications, and leadership activities. Eligible first-year students can earn a one-time $1,000 scholarship