Salem College
Winston-Salem, North Carolina · Private
Salem College admitted 87% of 1,951 applicants (IPEDS, fall 2023). First-year students who sent the SAT scored 1078–1315 in the middle half. Test scores are optional. 56% of students graduate within six years.
Your chances at Salem College
Enter a score to see whether Salem College is a reach, target or likely school for you.
Based on the admit rate (87%) alone. Add a score for a sharper read.
A rough read from the admit rate and test scores only. Grades, courses, essays and activities matter as much or more. To see your whole list at once, use the chances calculator.
Application deadlines
Salem College’s first-year deadlines for 2026–27 on the Common App:
- Regular decision
- Rolling admission
The application is free, and Salem College accepts the Common App fee waiver.
Deadlines end at 11:59 p.m. in your own time zone. From Common App’s requirements grid, updated September 25, 2026. Check Salem College’s admissions site before you submit. See every college’s deadlines or early decision vs. early action.
What it costs
Full price with housing is $52,368 a year. After grants, students paid $19,000 on average.
Average price after grants, by family income:
Quick answers
What is Salem College’s acceptance rate?
Salem College admitted 87% of applicants: 1,698 of 1,951 (IPEDS, fall 2023).
When is Salem College’s application deadline?
Salem College uses rolling admission for 2026–27 and has no early round on the Common App, so applying early in the fall gives you the best shot at open spots and aid.
What SAT score do you need for Salem College?
The middle half of admitted students who sent the SAT scored 1078 to 1315, with a median around 1235. A score at or above 1235 puts you in the top half of admitted students who sent one.
How much is Salem College’s application fee?
The application is free for 2026–27, and Salem College accepts the Common App fee waiver.
Does Salem College have supplemental essays?
Yes. For 2026–27, Salem College asks 1 question of its own on top of the main essay (one optional short answer, up to 250 words). Its supplemental essays page lists each one word for word with the word limit.
Not sure which colleges fit?
A Clarity Prep mentor builds a balanced list with your student and checks in every week until it’s done.
Writing your essays? See Salem College’s supplemental essays and get a free essay review.