Winston-Salem State University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
At Winston-Salem State, the 78% acceptance rate means your focus should be showing you are comfortably prepared, not just admissible. Since it is test-optional and relatively few students submit scores, consider sending results only if they strengthen your application. A 1050 SAT or 20 ACT puts you near the top of the middle range.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Winston-Salem State University facts and stats
Winston-Salem State University enrolls about 4,192 undergraduate students in an urban campus setting. Winston-Salem State has a 6-year graduation rate of 46%. The student-to-faculty ratio is 17:1.
Winston-Salem, NC
How do your scores compare at Winston-Salem State?

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Key Winston-Salem State University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
August 15
Early Action
Offered
Early Decision
Not offered
Priority Deadline
May 15
Financial Aid Priority
December 1
Test dates
August 22, 2026
Registration deadline: August 7, 2026
September 12, 2026
Registration deadline: August 28, 2026
October 3, 2026
Registration deadline: September 18, 2026
September 19, 2026
Registration deadline: August 14, 2026
October 17, 2026
Registration deadline: September 11, 2026
December 12, 2026
Registration deadline: November 6, 2026
If you choose to submit scores to test-optional Winston-Salem State, plan to take your first SAT or ACT by the spring of junior year. Use the summer before senior year for retakes, since the August 15 Regular Decision deadline means fall senior-year scores will likely arrive too late.
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What you'll actually pay
Winston-Salem State is a public university with in-state tuition of $3,401 and out-of-state tuition of $14,057. About 90% of students receive aid, and the FAFSA priority deadline is December 1.

At Winston-Salem State University, out-of-state tuition is $14,057, while in-state tuition is $3,401, with room and board adding $11,198 before other expenses. Financial aid is common: 90% of students receive aid, and the average aid package is $13,638. Merit awards average $5,236, which can further reduce the bill for qualifying students. Graduates leave with an average debt of $26,705.
Student life at Winston-Salem State University
50% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: Priority
Fraternities and sororities are active on campus.
Similar schools
South Piedmont Community College
Polkton, NCAppalachian State University
Boone, NCAcceptance rate: 90.1%
SAT: 1140–1270
ACT: 21–27
Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Asheville, NCAcceptance rate: 88.6%
Barton College
Wilson, NCAcceptance rate: 94.2%
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