Overview
Wake Forest University is located in Winston-Salem, NC. This comprehensive ROI analysis uses federal IRS W-2 earnings data to help you understand what graduates from Wake Forest University actually earn.
Data last updated: February 5, 2026
| Key Metric | Value | |------------|-------| | Median Graduate Earnings | $78,158 | | In-State Tuition | $64,758 | | Out-of-State Tuition | $64,758 | | Acceptance Rate | 21.6% | | Graduation Rate | 90.9% | | Student Population | 5,471 |
Graduate Earnings
According to federal data from IRS W-2 records, the median annual earnings for Wake Forest University graduates is $78,158 measured 10 years after initial enrollment.
This earnings figure represents graduates who received federal financial aid and had W-2 earnings reported to the IRS.
How This Compares
Compare Wake Forest University's graduate earnings to:
- [Similar schools in NC](/schools/nc)
- [Schools with similar admission rates](/compare)
- [National averages by major](/majors)
Cost Breakdown
Understanding the true cost of attending Wake Forest University:
| Cost Component | In-State | Out-of-State | |----------------|----------|--------------| | Tuition & Fees | $64,758 | $64,758 | | Room & Board | $17,848 | $17,848 | | 4-Year Total (Est.) | $330,424 | $330,424 |
Note: Actual costs may vary. Financial aid can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
ROI Analysis
To calculate your personal ROI:
- Estimate your total cost after financial aid
- Compare to median earnings of $78,158
- Consider your specific major (earnings vary significantly)
- Factor in opportunity costs of 4 years of study
Top Majors at Wake Forest University
The highest-earning majors at Wake Forest University typically include:
- Engineering and Computer Science programs
- Business and Finance degrees
- Healthcare and Nursing programs
Similar Schools to Consider
Based on size, selectivity, and location, you might also consider:
- Schools in NC with similar outcomes
- Institutions with comparable admission rates
- Universities with strong programs in your intended major
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wake Forest University worth the tuition?
With median graduate earnings of $78,158 and an out-of-state 4-year cost of approximately $330,424, the payback period depends on your financial aid package and chosen major.
What percentage of Wake Forest University students graduate?
The graduation rate at Wake Forest University is 90.9%, which is above the national average.
How competitive is admission to Wake Forest University?
Wake Forest University has an acceptance rate of 21.6% with an average SAT score of 1469.
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This page uses data from the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard API. Earnings data reflects median annual earnings for students who received federal financial aid, measured 10 years after enrollment.