Mahadev Maitri Foundation
US Initiatives
Public4-year

Western Carolina University

Cullowhee, North Carolina Β· Town: DistantOfficial Website β†—

#2883
Nationally
#93
In North Carolina
87%
Acceptance Rate
Nat'l avg 70%
$1,000
In-State Tuition
per year
59%
6-Year Grad Rate
Nat'l avg 63%
10,009
Undergrad Enrollment
10,000–19,999
Overall Score & Rankings
48/100
Average
#2883 nationally
#93 in North Carolina
πŸŽ“Graduation Outcomes59
πŸ’°Affordability50
🎯Selectivity40
πŸ“šAcademic Environment16
πŸ”¬Program Breadth75

Scores based on IPEDS 2023–24 federal data. Methodology β†’

Western Carolina University is a public four-year university located in Cullowhee, North Carolina. With 10,009 undergraduate students enrolled and an acceptance rate of 87%, the institution is considered accessible. In-state tuition is $1,000 per year ($5,000 out-of-state), significantly below average for public institutions. The six-year graduation rate is 59%, which is average compared to the national average of 63%.

Admissions
Acceptance Rate87%↓ Below avg
National avg: 70%
18,183
Applied
15,758
Admitted
2,103
Enrolled
SAT Score Range (Middle 50%)
SAT Reading540 – 650
Middle 50% of admitted students (max 800)
SAT Math510 – 610
Middle 50% of admitted students (max 800)
ACT Score Range (Middle 50%)20 – 26
Cost & Financial Aid
In-State Tuition$1,000/yr
In-State Fees$3,532/yr
Out-of-State Tuition$5,000/yr
Room & Board$12,457/yr
Total CoA (In-State)$16,989/yr
Total CoA (Out-of-State)$20,989/yr
In-State Tuition vs National Avg$1,000↑ Above avg
National avg: $10,662
Graduation Outcomes
6-Year Graduation Rate59%↓ Below avg
National avg: 63%

The six-year graduation rate measures students who earn their degree within 150% of normal time (6 years for a 4-year program). It is the federal standard for comparing outcomes across institutions.

Student Body
10,009
Total Undergrads
58% F / 42% M
Gender Split
Student Diversity
White 76%
Hispanic 9%
Black 7%
Asian 1%
Two or more 4%
International 2%
Native / Other 1%
Strengths & Considerations
Strengths
  • βœ“Tuition ($1,000/yr) is well below the national average for public colleges
  • βœ“Open admissions policy (87% acceptance rate) β€” accessible to a wide range of students
  • βœ“Publicly funded institution β€” tuition subsidized by state taxes for in-state residents
Consider
  • Β·Data on some metrics is not yet available β€” contact the admissions office for details
Who Is This College Best For?

This college is a strong fit for students seeking an accessible path to a college degree, and in-state students who want a quality education at a subsidized cost.

Institution Profile
Type4-year
ControlPublic
LocationCullowhee, North Carolina
SettingTown: Distant
Size10,000–19,999
State Ranking
#93
in North Carolina out of 7+ colleges
#2883
nationally
Data Source

All data sourced from the NCES IPEDS 2023–24 collection. Acceptance rates, test scores, and graduation rates reflect the most recent year reported. Scores are composite rankings calculated from five weighted dimensions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Data notice: All figures are sourced from IPEDS 2023–24 federal data. Tuition, acceptance rates, and enrollment figures change annually. Always verify current information directly with the institution. Net price figures are averages and individual aid packages will vary. Composite scores and rankings are calculated by SchoolRankings.org and are not affiliated with U.S. News, Forbes, or any government agency.