
84 West South Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18766, USA


Wilkes University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, ensuring that it meets rigorous standards for academic quality and institutional effectiveness. This level of accreditation is significant for prospective students as it affirms that the university adheres to established criteria essential for quality education and continuous improvement.
The university also holds specialized accreditations for several of its professional programs. These accreditations represent external validation of program quality in specific fields, which is important for students pursuing careers that require recognized credentials.
Accredited programs include business disciplines, which are recognized by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a prestigious accreditation held by fewer than 5% of business schools globally. This endorsement assures prospective business students that the curriculum is aligned with current professional standards and practices.
Additionally, programs in chemistry hold accreditation from the American Chemical Society (ACS), indicating that the program meets the ACS guidelines for comprehensive education in chemistry. This recognition is vital for students aiming for careers or further education in the chemical sciences.
Education programs at Wilkes University are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), demonstrating compliance with national standards for teacher preparation. This accreditation assures future educators that their training meets the expectations of the teaching profession.
Nursing programs receive accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), confirming that the programs offer high-quality curricula and clinical experiences necessary for nursing practice. Prospective nursing students can be confident of their education's recognition by healthcare employers and certifying bodies.
The university's engineering technology programs have earned accreditation from the Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission of ABET, a widely respected accrediting agency in technical fields. This accreditation is a critical factor for students seeking careers in engineering and related disciplines, as it signifies program quality and relevance to industry standards.
These accreditations collectively reflect Wilkes University's commitment to providing education that meets or exceeds both regional and professional standards, helping students make informed decisions based on recognized credentials that support their academic and career goals.
Wilkes University requires applicants to have completed a secondary school program with a General Educational Development (GED) credential or a high school diploma. Prospective students must submit their high school academic records, including GPA and class rank, as these are mandatory for admission consideration. While standardized test scores such as the SAT and ACT are not strictly required, submitting them is recommended and may strengthen an application.
The university does not have an open admission policy and dual credit options are not available. However, Wilkes University does accept college credits transferred from other institutions, as well as Advanced Placement (AP) credits, allowing for potential advancement in academic standing. Competencies and other standardized tests besides the SAT and ACT are also recommended but not obligatory for admission.
Applicants are not required to have personal computer ownership since computer leasing options are available. This facilitates access to necessary technology during the academic program. The university maintains a selective admissions process with an acceptance rate of approximately 91%, indicating a generally high rate of admission but still evaluating applicants based on academic credentials and recommended testing.
Wilkes University requires prospective students to submit a nonrefundable application fee when applying for admission. This fee is typically set at a modest amount to cover administrative costs associated with processing applications. However, the university offers fee waivers for certain applicants who demonstrate financial need or participate in specific programs, easing the financial burden for those eligible.
Applicants may request a waiver by providing appropriate documentation or by participating in recognized fee waiver programs, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their ability to apply. This policy reflects Wilkes University's commitment to accessibility and support for a diverse student body.
Wilkes University does not have an ROTC branch unit on its campus. Additionally, there is no information indicating the availability of ROTC programs through any cooperating host institutions affiliated with the university.
Wilkes University welcomes transfer students for the fall, spring, and summer terms, providing flexibility for those seeking to continue their education without delay. The institution accepts transfer credits, including credits earned through CLEP general and subject examinations, as well as DANTES exams, facilitating a streamlined transition for students with prior college-level coursework.
Recommendations are considered as part of the transfer application process, further supporting evaluation of candidates' academic readiness. The university also accepts credits from other institutions, which can be advantageous for transfer students aiming to apply previously earned coursework toward their degree requirements.
Wilkes University offers a diverse range of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' academic experience and global perspective. The university provides short-term faculty-led programs, semester exchanges, and summer study abroad options, allowing students to tailor their international experience according to their academic schedules and interests.
Faculty-led programs often focus on specific disciplines, combining classroom learning with cultural immersion in various global destinations. These trips are usually scheduled during breaks, facilitating participation without interrupting students' regular coursework.
For those seeking a longer immersion, Wilkes University maintains partnerships with several international institutions, enabling students to study abroad for an entire semester or academic year. This option helps students gain in-depth exposure to different educational systems and cultures.
Additionally, the university supports summer study abroad experiences that offer academic credit and cultural exposure in a condensed timeframe, appealing especially to those who prefer summer engagements or cannot participate during the academic year.
Wilkes University also provides guidance and resources to assist students with planning, financial aid, and credit transfer, ensuring a smooth and rewarding study abroad experience.
Median composite SAT score
1145Median composite ACT score
24Percent of students submitting ACT scores
2%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
27%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RequiredSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RecommendedOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer