About

About Winston-Salem State University

hbcuhealth sciences focusdoctoral programspublic universitybusiness and nursing strengths

Winston-Salem State University is a public university in Winston-Salem, NC, known for its hbcu, health sciences focus, and doctoral programs. With an acceptance rate of 73%, WSSU is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 855 students each year. WSSU is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 830–1050, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. WSSU offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $7,754 per year; the sticker price of $33,259 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Winston-Salem State University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

73%
Overall Accept Rate
940
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 830 – 1050 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Winston-Salem State University

The first 2 tips apply to all applicants. Your personalized strategy requires your profile — build your free list to unlock it.

Essay Strategy
Winston-Salem State is an HBCU with a strong sense of community and mission, so use your essays or additional information section to explain why an HBCU environment specifically appeals to you and how WSSU's culture aligns with your goals.
Test Score Strategy
Since WSSU is test optional and your score is below the range where it would help you, focus your application energy on your GPA, activities, and any personal statements rather than submitting a score that could work against you.

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Financial Aid & Cost

What Winston-Salem State University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceEst. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$33k/yr$11.5k
30k-48k~$33k/yr$12.4k
48k-75k~$33k/yr$14.7k
75k-110k~$33k/yr$18.8k
110k+~$33k/yr$21.4k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

49%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$41k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
16:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
4,438
Undergrad Enrollment
Winston-Salem State University Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch