Wake Forest University
A private research university in North Carolina with strong undergraduate teaching, distinguished business and law programs, and a tradition of 'Pro Humanitate' — service beyond oneself.
- Next deadline
- Nov 15, 2026Early Decision
- Essays
- 4Prompts
- Supplement
- Required2026-2027 cycle
- Platform
- Common AppAccepted platform
- Selectivity
- 21%Selective
- Enrollment
- 5,447Mid-size undergrad
Build your Wake Forest University application plan
Track the deadline, review every supplemental essay prompt, and shape each response around one clear admissions story.
Application deadlines
Supplemental essay prompts
- Short Answer100 words2026-2027
List five books you have read that have intrigued you.
- Short Answer150 words2026-2027
Tell us what you have done during the past two summers in which you were not in school.
- Short Answer100 words2026-2027
Give us your top ten list.
- Supplement300 words2026-2027
Dr. Maya Angelou said, 'When you learn, teach. When you get, give.' Describe a way you have shared what you have learned or given to others.
How to approach Wake Forest University's supplemental essays
Answer fast, then show texture
Start with the answer, then add one detail only you could write. Short answers get stronger when they sound observed instead of summarized.
Answer fast, then show texture
Start with the answer, then add one detail only you could write. Short answers get stronger when they sound observed instead of summarized.
Answer fast, then show texture
Start with the answer, then add one detail only you could write. Short answers get stronger when they sound observed instead of summarized.
Choose a role before you draft
Decide what this essay should add to the application: evidence, range, bridge, or a new window into your life. Avoid repeating the Common App essay in miniature.
Use this as a blank structure for a Wake Forest University short-answer response, then replace every bracket with your own specifics.
- Open on [specific scene, object, problem, or conversation].
- Show what [choice/action/constraint] reveals about how you think.
- Connect that trait to [school program, community, lab, class, or value].
- End with the contribution you want to make at Wake Forest University, not a compliment.
Need more help with this application?
Use our guides to plan your supplement, sharpen your Why Us research, and review your draft before you submit.
Frequently asked questions
How many supplemental essays does Wake Forest University require?
Wake Forest University has 4 supplemental essays listed for the 2026-2027 application cycle, in addition to the shared application essay.
Does Wake Forest University accept the Common Application?
Yes — Wake Forest University accepts the Common Application.
What is Wake Forest University's acceptance rate?
Wake Forest University's most recently reported acceptance rate is 21.0%.
When is Wake Forest University's next application deadline?
Wake Forest University's next listed application deadline is the Early Decision round on November 15, 2026.
What is Wake Forest University's "List five books you have read…" prompt (#1, 100 words)?
List five books you have read that have intrigued you.
What is Wake Forest University's "Tell us what you have done…" prompt (#2, 150 words)?
Tell us what you have done during the past two summers in which you were not in school.
What is Wake Forest University's "Give us your top ten list…" prompt (#3, 100 words)?
Give us your top ten list.
What is Wake Forest University's "Dr. Maya Angelou said, 'When you…" prompt (#4, 300 words)?
Dr. Maya Angelou said, 'When you learn, teach. When you get, give.' Describe a way you have shared what you have learned or given to others.
Sources and verification
We prioritize Wake Forest University's official admissions pages for school-specific prompts and deadlines, then use application-platform and federal sources as cross-checks. This record is labeled for the 2026-2027 cycle but still needs a fresh verification pass.
Review official source →