Western Carolina University acceptance rate
Western Carolina University has a school-wide acceptance rate of 82%, which makes it accessible (admits most applicants).
Published tuition & fees: $4,630 in-state, $8,630 out-of-state. But sticker price is rarely what families pay — the net price after aid below is what matters.
SAT & ACT scores for Western Carolina University
| Test | Admitted middle 50% |
|---|---|
| SAT Math (mid-50%) | 520–610 |
| SAT Reading/Writing (mid-50%) | 560–660 |
| SAT Total (approx.) | 1080–1270 |
| ACT Composite (mid-50%) | 19–25 |
"Middle 50%" = the range from the 25th to 75th percentile of admitted students. Scoring above the 75th puts you toward the safety end; below the 25th makes it more of a reach.
Western Carolina University cost & net price after aid
The "sticker price" almost no one pays. Here is the average net price — what families actually pay per year after grants and scholarships — broken down by household income:
| Household income | Avg. net price after aid |
|---|---|
| Under $30,000 | $8,816/yr |
| $30,001–48,000 | $10,012/yr |
| $48,001–75,000 | $12,605/yr |
| $75,001–110,000 | $17,060/yr |
| $110,001+ | $17,992/yr |
Graduation rate & outcomes
Western Carolina University has a graduation rate of 60% and graduates earn a median of $49,458 about 10 years after enrolling. Outcomes are one honest signal of value — especially read next to the net price above.
Frequently asked questions
What is Western Carolina University's acceptance rate?
About 82% (school-wide, U.S. Dept. of Education, June 2026) — accessible (admits most applicants).
How much does Western Carolina University cost after aid?
It varies by income. For middle-income families the average net price is about $12,605/year; see the full table above for your bracket.
Is Western Carolina University a reach for me?
Depends on your stats vs. the admitted middle-50% range above. Check free →