Admissions Update

Thank you for your patience awaiting the release of undergraduate admissions decisions from Wake Forest University. We know that students are eager to learn of their decision, which we plan to release shortly.

This year’s application review and selection process was unlike any other, notably marked by an uptick in applications and selectivity. Like some of our peers, we experienced a surge in applications, a record-setting 28% increase from the year prior. This resulted in a reduced admit rate and some very difficult committee decisions. While we celebrate the students admitted to the Class of 2025, we recognize that we could not extend such an offer to many qualified students.

This year was also exceptional for the shift (and perhaps forced adoption) of test-optional policies among our peers. Wake Forest was the first U.S. News & World Report Top 30 ranked university to adopt a test-optional approach more than a decade ago. We believe this policy has encouraged us to get to know students beyond the numbers to build a stronger incoming class. It looks like our secret is out.  We knowingly tip our Demon Deacon top hat as more schools commit to test-optional admissions beyond this pandemic year.

COVID-19 has limited the college search and selection process for so many of our high-school seniors. We are offering admitted students the opportunity to tour our campus and participate in a host of virtual programs before making their enrollment decision.

Like so many of you, here on campus, we look forward to brighter days that represent a new normal, encompassing lessons learned during this historic time of sacrifice, compassion, and grace. Because of the hard work and commitment of Wake Forest faculty and staff, we anticipate fully in-person classes for our undergraduates and a return to activities that signify the college experience. No matter what college your students attend, we hope they’ll find that experience that sends them into the world to help others find the meaning of our university motto, Pro Humanitate: for humanity.