Cullowhee, NC · Public · Graduate degree · College Scorecard data · Updated September 10, 2026
| Western Carolina University | NC Average | National Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-state tuition | $4,630 | $14,116 | $18,082 |
| vs. average | — | -67% | -74% |
| Median earnings 10 years after enrolling | $49,458 |
| Graduation rate (within 150% of normal time) | 60% |
| Median debt among graduates who borrowed | $21,868 |
| Undergraduates receiving Pell grants | 35% |
| Undergraduates aged 25 and over | 20% |
| First-generation students | 33% |
Source: U.S. Department of Education, College Scorecard. Earnings and debt figures cover students who received federal financial aid.
In-state tuition at Western Carolina University is $4,630 and out-of-state tuition is $8,630, according to College Scorecard data.
The acceptance rate at Western Carolina University is 82%.
With an acceptance rate of 82%, Western Carolina University is moderately selective among U.S. colleges.
The average SAT score for admitted students at Western Carolina University is 1157.
Western Carolina University enrolls about 10,024 undergraduate students. The student-faculty ratio is 16:1.
In-state tuition at Western Carolina University is $4,630, which is 67% below the NC average of $14,116.
Median earnings ten years after enrolling at Western Carolina University are $49,458 a year, according to College Scorecard.
The median debt among Western Carolina University graduates who borrowed is $21,868, according to College Scorecard.