Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Shaw University vs Wake Forest University

Raleigh, NC · Winston-Salem, NC · Source: IPEDS federal database

Shaw UniversityWake Forest University
Acceptance Rate30.5%21.6%
In-State Tuition$17,176$64,758
Out-of-State Tuition$17,176$64,758
Average Net Price$2,998$18,681
Graduation Rate20.0%91.0%

GradFax Analysis

Shaw University accepts 30.5% of applicants. Wake Forest University accepts 21.6%. Shaw University's tuition is $17,176. Wake Forest University's is $64,758. That's a $47,582 difference per year. Shaw University graduates 20% of students in 6 years. Wake Forest University graduates 91%.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Shaw University profileWake Forest University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Shaw University or Wake Forest University?

Wake Forest University. It accepts 21.6% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Shaw University or Wake Forest University more affordable?

Shaw University has lower published tuition: $17,176 versus $64,758. Financial aid can flip this, so compare your actual award letters.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Wake Forest University: 91% of students finish in 6 years. Shaw University is at 20%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.

Shaw University vs Wake Forest University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax