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Wichita State University

Wichita, KS · Public

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94.9%
Acceptance
1090
SAT
$30,408
Sticker Price
$14,240
Net Price*
$51,532
Earnings
3.4 yrs
Payback
8,637
Applicants

*Net price for families earning $48k–$75k. See all income brackets →

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What is Wichita State University's acceptance rate?

Down 1.6 percentage points since 2018

With a 94.9% acceptance rate, Wichita State University is considered accessible. The school has become increasingly competitive over the past five years. Applicants should focus on demonstrating strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and authentic personal essays to stand out in the applicant pool.

How many students apply to Wichita State University?

Wichita State University received 8,637 applications in 2023, up 49% since 2018. High application volume means admissions officers spend limited time per application—typically 8-15 minutes. Make every word count in your essays and ensure your application materials are error-free.

Applications
Admitted

How many admitted students enroll?

The yield rate of 22% is typical for a school of this caliber. Yield rate measures how many admitted students actually enroll—a key indicator of how desirable students find the school. Demonstrating genuine interest through campus visits, attending info sessions, and writing specific "Why Us" essays can improve your chances.

What are the most popular majors at Wichita State University?

Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods leads as the most popular major at Wichita State University. Your intended major can affect admission chances—some programs are more competitive than others. Research department-specific requirements, faculty research, and career outcomes when choosing your major. Consider how your academic interests align with the school's strengths.

How have majors changed over time?

Degrees awarded by major, 2015-2023

How has tuition changed at Wichita State University?

Out-of-state tuition has increased by 22% since 2015. Total cost of attendance (including fees and room & board) has grown 50% from $20,206 to $30,408.

Tuition (Out-of-State) Tuition (In-State) Total Cost

How much do Wichita State University graduates earn by major?

Graduates in Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering earn among the highest salaries, with median earnings of $69,338 within two years of graduation. Earnings vary significantly by major—STEM and business fields typically offer higher starting salaries, while humanities and arts may have different career trajectories. Consider both passion and practical outcomes when choosing your field of study.

Electrical, Electronics and Co... $69,338
$12,879 $128,868
Mechanical Engineering $65,784
$12,879 $128,868
Computer Engineering $64,990
$12,879 $128,868
Aerospace, Aeronautical and As... $64,328
$12,879 $128,868
Industrial Engineering $63,005
$12,879 $128,868
Management Information Systems... $61,303
$12,879 $128,868
Accounting and Related Service... $54,032
$12,879 $128,868
Clinical/Medical Laboratory Sc... $52,357
$12,879 $128,868
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Wichita State University Admissions Statistics (2018-2023)

Each row shows the admissions cycle for that academic year. Applicants is the total number of students who applied for freshman admission. Admitted shows how many received acceptance letters. Rate is the acceptance rate (admitted ÷ applicants) — lower percentages indicate more selective schools. Yield measures the percentage of admitted students who actually enrolled — a high yield (above 50%) suggests the school is a top choice for admitted students, while lower yields indicate students often choose other options. SAT shows the 25th-75th percentile range, meaning the middle 50% of enrolled students scored within this range. Data is sourced from IPEDS, the federal database where all US colleges report annually.

Year Applicants Admitted Rate Yield
2023 8,637 8,200 94.9% 21.8%
2022 8,899 8,441 94.8% 21.9%
2021 7,291 6,639 91.1% 27.3%
2020 7,655 6,096 79.6% 25.9%
2019 6,238 5,720 91.7% 29.5%
2018 5,799 5,596 96.5% 30.6%
2017 5,469 5,130 93.8% 31.1%
2016 6,305 5,437 86.2% 30.4%
2015 5,430 5,144 94.7% 27.8%

Is Wichita State University worth it?

Calculate your personal ROI

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Earnings & ROI Range (10yr)
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Estimates based on College Scorecard averages. Use official calculator →

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What do Wichita State University graduates earn?

Median Earnings (10 years)
$51,532
Earnings Range (10th - 90th percentile)
$9,700 $51,532 median $78,100

Earnings vary widely: the bottom 10% earn $9,700 while the top 10% earn $78,100. Your outcome depends heavily on major, career path, and individual circumstances.

Median Earnings (6 years)
$44,043
Median Debt
$20,500
6-Year Graduation Rate
51.4%

How much does Wichita State University cost?

The total cost of attendance at Wichita State University is approximately $30,408 per year for out-of-state students. Remember: sticker price rarely equals actual cost. Most students receive financial aid, and net price varies significantly by family income. Use the school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate before ruling out any option based on cost alone.

In-State Tuition
$6,843
Out-of-State Tuition
$16,208
Fees
$1,590
Room & Board
$12,610
Total Cost of Attendance
$30,408

What You'll Actually Pay

Net price represents what families actually pay after grants and scholarships. The figures above are averages—your actual cost depends on family income, assets, and the school's aid policies. Many selective private schools are more affordable than public universities for middle and lower-income families due to generous institutional aid.

$0-30k income $10,914
$30-48k income $11,084
$48-75k income $14,240
$75-110k income $17,670
$110k+ income $18,751

Which majors pay the most?

  • Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $69,338
  • Mechanical Engineering $65,784
  • Computer Engineering $64,990
  • Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering $64,328
  • Industrial Engineering $63,005

Who attends Wichita State University?

Wichita State University enrolls 16,741 students, with 20% from outside the United States. Women make up 56% of the student body. Campus diversity enriches the educational experience through varied perspectives and backgrounds. Consider how you'll contribute to and benefit from the campus community when crafting your application.

Total Enrollment 16,741
Retention Rate 68%
International 20%
Women 56%
Race/Ethnicity
White 49%
Hispanic 13%
Asian 6%
Black 5%

How much financial aid is available?

59% of students receive some form of financial aid at Wichita State University. About 30% receive Pell Grants, indicating support for low-income students. Apply for aid regardless of your family's income level—merit scholarships and institutional grants are available to students at various income levels. Never assume you won't qualify.

Receive Grants 59%
Avg: $6,873 free money/year
Pell Grant Recipients 30%
Federal aid for <$60k income families
Have Federal Loans 35%
Avg: $7,462
School's Own Grants 70%
Avg: $4,416 from school funds

How much do professors earn?

Faculty salaries at Wichita State University are above the national average, reflecting the school's investment in attracting and retaining talented professors. Higher faculty compensation often correlates with stronger research programs, better student mentorship, and more resources for academic departments. Look for opportunities to engage with faculty through research, office hours, and smaller seminars.

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