Wilkes University

Wilkes University is a private institution located in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. It was founded in 1933 as a satellite campus of Bucknell University. In 1947, it became an independent college and was granted university status in 1990. With an enrollment of over 2,200 undergraduate and graduate students, Wilkes University offers a diverse array of programmes across various fields, including arts, sciences, and professional studies. 

The university is committed to providing an inclusive learning environment that emphasises access to higher education and fosters student success through personalised support, research opportunities, and a vibrant campus life. Wilkes University also hosts numerous events and lectures that enrich the academic experience and engage the community.

 

Things To Consider Before Applying

Applying to Wilkes University requires a fair portion of work, even before applying. Preparing crucial documents, curating required letters such as recommendations and a statement of purpose, and preparing degree transcripts and the marks they need to carry will decide your course of action. 

Entry Requirements
 

Wilkes University entry requirements for students are, they must meet the following general entry requirements, as well as any specific requirements for their chosen academic programme:

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

1. High School Diploma: Completion of secondary education is required.
2. GPA: A minimum high school GPA of 2.70 is recommended, with competitive applicants typically having a GPA of around 3.54.
3. Standardised Test Scores: If submitted, SAT or ACT scores are considered, with an average SAT score of 1159. However, these scores are optional.
4. Course Requirements: Applicants should have completed:
   • Four years of English
   • Three years of social studies
   • Three years of mathematics
   • Two years of science (including a laboratory component)

Graduate Admission Requirements:

1. Bachelor's Degree: A completed bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required.
2. GPA: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is generally expected.
3. Standardised Test Scores: GRE or GMAT scores may be required depending on the programme.
4. Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two to three letters are required.
5. Statement of Purpose: A written essay outlining academic and career goals is usually required.

International Student Requirements:

• English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
• Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended are required.

 

Documents

Gathering all necessary Wilkes University documents in advance can help streamline your application. Ensuring all required documents are ready before the application process can prevent delays and complications.

Undergraduate Admission Documents:

1. Official High School Transcripts: Required to reflect completed coursework.
2. Standardised Test Scores: SAT or ACT scores are optional but can be submitted if available.
3. Personal Essay: A personal statement is recommended to provide insight into the applicant's motivations and experiences.
4. Letters of Recommendation: While not required, they can strengthen an application.
5. Financial Aid Documentation: The FAFSA must be submitted to apply for financial aid.

Graduate Admission Documents:

1. Official Transcripts: From all post-secondary institutions attended.
2. Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two to three letters are required.
3. Statement of Purpose: A written essay outlining academic and career goals.
4. Resume/CV: Detailing academic and professional experience.
5. Standardised Test Scores: GRE or GMAT scores may be required depending on the programme.

International Student Requirements:

• Proof of English Proficiency: Non-native speakers must submit scores from tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
• Financial Verification: Documentation showing sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
• Passport Copy: A clear copy of the passport bio page.

These documents are essential for completing the application process and ensuring compliance with admission requirements.

International Student Eligibility:

• English Proficiency: Non-native English speakers must demonstrate English proficiency through tests like TOEFL (minimum score of 500 for paper-based, 173 for computer-based, or 60 for internet-based) or IELTS (minimum score of 5.5).
• Financial Verification: Documentation showing sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses is required.

 

How To Apply At Wilkes University?

The application process at Wilkes University may vary based on your programme, course and intake. However, the general process remains consistent. Follow the below steps for a successful application.

Undergraduate Application Process

1. Review the admission requirements for first-year and transfer students.
2. Apply online using the Wilkes University Application or the Common Application. There is no application fee.
3. Submit official high school transcripts reflecting completed coursework.
4. Standardised test scores (SAT or ACT) are optional for Spring and Fall applicants.
5. Unofficial documents can be submitted initially, but enrollment is contingent on receipt of final official transcripts.

Graduate Application Process

1. Complete the online graduate application for your specific programme.
2. Submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
3. Provide letters of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose as required by the programme.
4. Demonstrate English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS if applicable.

International Student Requirements

• Apply Wilkes or Common App.
• Provide official transcripts and proof of English proficiency.
• Submit a bank statement showing sufficient funds for one year's expenses.
• Include a copy of your passport.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but to meet residency deadlines, completed applications must be received by December 1 for January start or May 15 for June start.

 

Deadlines

It is essential to follow the admission procedure as instructed by the university to the bone. Similarly, Wilkes University deadlines are often well laid out and crucial. 

Undergraduate Admission Deadlines:

• Early Decision Application Deadline: November 15
• Priority Admission Deadline: January 15
• Regular Admission Deadline: June 15 (for Fall Semester)
• Spring Semester Deadline: November 15

Graduate Admission Deadlines:

• Rolling Admission: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but specific programmes may have their own deadlines. It is advisable to check with the respective programme for details.

 

Decision Dates

Decision dates for applications to Wilkes University vary depending on the type of application and when it is submitted. 

Undergraduate Admission Decision Dates

• Early Decision: Applicants who apply by the November 15 deadline will receive their admission decision by early December.
• Regular Decision: Wilkes University uses rolling admission, so applicants typically receive a decision within a few weeks of submitting a complete application.

Graduate Admission Decision Dates

• Rolling Admission: Graduate programmes at Wilkes University use rolling admission, so decision timelines vary by programme. Applicants should expect to receive a decision within 4-6 weeks of submitting a complete application.

 

Wilkes University Selection Criteria

The selection criteria for Wilkes University focus on a holistic review process, considering various factors to assess an applicant's potential for success. Here are the key elements involved in the selection process:

1. Academic Performance:
   • High School GPA: A minimum GPA of 2.70 is recommended, with competitive applicants typically having a GPA around 3.54.
   • Coursework: Completion of college preparatory courses is expected, including: 
   • Four years of English
   • Three years of social studies
   • Three years of mathematics
   • Two years of science (including laboratory components).
2. Standardised Test Scores:
   • SAT or ACT scores are optional for applicants, particularly for those applying for Spring or Fall. If submitted, the average SAT score for admitted students typically ranges from 1060 to 1260, and the ACT score ranges from 21 to 26.
3. Letters of Recommendation:
   • While not required, letters of recommendation can strengthen an application by providing insights into the applicant's character and accomplishments.
4. Personal Statement or Essay:
   • A personal statement or essay is encouraged, allowing applicants to express their motivations, experiences, and aspirations.
5. Extracurricular Activities:
   • Involvement in extracurricular activities, community service, and leadership roles are considered valuable aspects of an applicant's profile.
6. English Proficiency:
   • For international students, proof of English proficiency is required through tests such as TOEFL or IELTS, with minimum scores set for undergraduate (TOEFL: 500 paper-based, 60 internet-based; IELTS: 5.5) and graduate students (TOEFL: 550 paper-based, 79 internet-based; IELTS: 6.0).
7. Holistic Review:
   • Wilkes University emphasises a holistic admissions approach, looking beyond grades and test scores to understand each applicant's unique journey and achievements.

These criteria ensure that Wilkes University selects students who are not only academically prepared but also demonstrate the potential to contribute positively to the campus community. With UniScholars, you can get a detailed understanding of Wilkes University’s selection criteria, helping you increase your chances of a successful admission into this prestigious campus.
 

Wilkes University Acceptance Rate

The acceptance rate for Wilkes University is approximately 94%. This indicates that the university is not highly selective, allowing a significant number of applicants to gain admission. Students admitted to Wilkes typically have an average SAT score ranging from 1060 to 1260 or an ACT score between 21 and 26. The university employs a rolling admissions process, which means that decisions are made continuously as applications are submitted, allowing for flexibility in the application timeline.
 

Fees

Wilkes University fees vary depending on the programme and level of study. For international students, the estimated fees for the academic year are as follows:

• Undergraduate Tuition: Approximately $43,496 per year.
• Graduate Tuition: Varies by programme, with typical costs around $24,000 per year for most graduate programmes.