Wake Forest University Launches Tuition-Free Initiative for North Carolina Students

Wake Forest University has announced a tuition-free program for admitted undergraduates from North Carolina with annual family incomes less than $200,000 per year, set to launch in Fall 2026. The initiative, called the North Carolina Gateway to Wake Forest University, aims to increase opportunities for talented and high-achieving North Carolina students to attend the university regardless of family income. The program demonstrates the university's deep commitment to students from its home state and promises to make a transformative education accessible to a broader range of students.

Key Takeaways:

• The North Carolina Gateway to Wake Forest University will provide tuition-free education to admitted undergraduates from North Carolina with annual family incomes less than $200,000 per year.
• Students with an annual family income between $200,000 and $300,000 will receive financial aid covering 50% of tuition.
• The initiative is part of Wake Forest's efforts to minimize student loans by increasing financial aid and scholarships.
• The program is estimated to benefit students from North Carolina, the state from which more undergraduate students come to Wake Forest than any other state.
• The initiative highlights Wake Forest's commitment to accessibility and affordability for low and middle-income families.
• The university meets 100% of demonstrated need for all admitted undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens, regardless of family income.
• The program is made possible through the generous support of donors who have invested in undergraduate scholarships and financial aid at Wake Forest.

Statistics:

• 100% of demonstrated need for all admitted undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens is met by Wake Forest University.
• 50% of tuition will be covered for admitted students from North Carolina with an annual family income between $200,000 and $300,000.
• The number of undergraduate students from North Carolina who attend Wake Forest is greater than any other state.
• The annual family incomes eligible for tuition-free education are:

+ less than $100,000: tuition and standard living expenses covered

+ $100,000-$200,000: tuition covered, standard living expenses and fees to be paid

+ $200,000-$300,000: 50% of tuition covered

• The North Carolina Gateway to Wake Forest University initiative will launch in Fall 2026 for admitted undergraduates.

Sources:

• Wake Forest University
• [https://www.wfu.edu/wake-forest-university-launches-program-make-tuition-free-education-more-opportunities-north-carolina-students/](https://www.wfu.edu/wake-forest-university-launches-program-make-tuition-free-education-more-opportunities-north-carolina-students/)
• Cheryl Walker, Wake Forest University
• Susan R. Wente, Wake Forest University President
• Eric Maguire, Vice President for Enrollment, Wake Forest University