Is Wilkes University Division 1 or 2? Athletics, Academics & More
Choosing a university in the United States is a major step for Indian students aiming to build a rewarding global career. Wilkes University stands out for its high acceptance rate, affordable tuition, flexible programs, and supportive campus environment, making it an ideal study destination for 2025 applicants keen on quality education and practical exposure.
Wilkes University: Overview & 2025 Key Facts
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Established | 1933 |
| Type | Private University |
| 2024 US News Ranking | #269 (National Universities, 2024) |
| Acceptance Rate | 94% |
| Student Enrollment | 4,200+ (Inc. 126+ international students) |
| Popular Majors | Nursing, Business, Engineering, Psychology, Finance, Biology |
| Campus Size | 33 Acres |
| Indian Student Presence | Active Indian student community, 3% international population |
| Website | wilkes.edu |
Wilkes University is recognized for its individual-focused learning, career placements, national-level sports, and practical support for international students. The main campus located in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, offers over 100 majors, with Indian students choosing it for both value and post-study outcomes.
Top Programs and Degrees for International Students
| Degree | Popular Majors | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| B.S. | Nursing, Biology, Engineering, Computer Science | 4 years |
| B.A. | Liberal Arts, Psychology, Social Sciences | 4 years |
| B.B.A. | Business Administration, Finance | 4 years |
| M.S. | Engineering Management, Nursing, Education | 2 years |
| B.F.A. | Fine Arts, Performing Arts | 4 years |
STEM, business, and healthcare degrees are especially popular among Indian students. Explore related programs and high salary courses after 12th to align your career goals.
Eligibility & Accepted Exams (2025 Intake)
Wilkes University maintains accessible admission requirements for international applicants, while ensuring quality. For 2025 admissions, Indian students must demonstrate academic readiness and English proficiency.
| Requirement | Undergraduate | Postgraduate |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum GPA | 3.0/4.0 (approx. 75-80% in Indian boards) | 3.0/4.0 (varies by program) |
| Accepted Exams | IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, PTE, SAT/ACT (recommended) | IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo |
| English Scores | IELTS: 5.5+, TOEFL iBT: 60+, Duolingo: 85+, PTE: 42+ | IELTS: 6.0+, TOEFL iBT: 79+, Duolingo: 95+, PTE: 50+ |
| Letters of Recommendation | 2 required | 2 required |
| Statement of Purpose / Essay | Required | Required |
Academic transcripts, financial proof, and a valid passport are also required. For details on statement of purpose formats and samples, refer to SOP guide.
Fees, Tuition & Scholarships for Indian Students (2025)
One of the main reasons Indian students choose Wilkes is its value-for-money education, with abundant scholarship opportunities. Below is a breakdown of annual fees for 2025 and available scholarships.
| Program | Annual Tuition (USD) | Living Expenses (USD) | Total (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (UG) | 42,288 | 16,000 | 61,268 |
| Graduate (PG) | 19,550 | 16,000 | 38,512 |
- Merit Scholarships (UG & PG): Up to $18,000/year for top applicants
- Freshman, Transfer, Jay Sidhu, Phi Theta Kappa, and Global Colonel Awards
- Most scholarships are automatic with your application; no separate essay needed
Wilkes is less expensive than many US universities, especially with scholarships. For tips on converting your Indian grades to the US GPA, see CGPA to 4.0 GPA conversion.
Wilkes University Application Process (2025 Step-by-Step)
- Visit the official portal: wilkes.edu
- Create an international student account
- Fill out and submit the online application form (approx. 30 minutes)
- Upload academic transcripts, test scores, SoP, and recommendation letters
- Pay the non-refundable application fee (USD 30-35)
- After admission, deposit USD 1,000 to secure your spot before receiving Form I-20
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. For the Fall 2025 intake, early application (by June 15) increases your chances of scholarship and visa processing success.
English Requirements: Minimum Scores for 2025
| Test | UG Min. Score | PG Min. Score |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 60 | 79 |
| IELTS | 5.5 | 6.0 |
| PTE Academic | 42 | 50 |
| Duolingo | 85 | 95 |
All language results are valid for two years. For more on IELTS & TOEFL preparation, visit: IELTS exam guide or TOEFL overview.
Visa Process and Post-Study Work Options (OPT/CPT)
- Receive I-20 after admission and deposit payment
- Apply for US F-1 student visa at local embassy or consulate
- Attend visa interview with academic documents, proof of funds, and scholarship letter (if any)
- Post-graduation: Access to OPT (12+24 months for STEM) and potential H-1B work visa**
Wilkes students enjoy strong post-study options in the US. Learn more about practical training and differences between OPT/CPT at CPT vs OPT.
Career Support & Campus Life
Wilkes University boasts a 98% placement and graduation rate, underpinned by robust industry ties and support services for international students. Students can work part-time on campus (up to 20 hours/week) and benefit from dedicated career counselling, internships, and athletics.
- Career services, resume workshops, and job fairs
- Diverse sports (NCAA DIII), student clubs, and vibrant international communities
- Affordable on-campus and off-campus housing options
For more details on campus work, cost of living, and the Indian student experience, check living cost in the US.
Important Deadlines (2025 Intake)
| Semester | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall (August/September) | June 15, 2025 |
| Spring (January) | November 15, 2024 |
| Summer (May/June) | March 15, 2025 |
Admissions are on a rolling basis; applying early ensures better scholarship chances and smooth visa processing. Prepare your documents ahead of time to maximize your opportunities.
Wilkes University is a practical and friendly choice for Indian students seeking an affordable, high-quality US degree, with helpful scholarships, flexible entry, and a welcoming campus. From study support to career opportunities and visa guidance, Wilkes simplifies the journey for 2025 aspirants from India and beyond.
FAQs on What You Need to Know About Wilkes University in 2025
1. Is Wilkes University D1 or D2?
Wilkes University competes at the NCAA Division III (D3) level for all varsity sports, including football and baseball. The university is not a Division I (D1) or Division II (D2) school. D3 schools focus on providing student-athletes with a balanced collegiate experience.
2. What is Wilkes University famous for?
Wilkes University is well-known for its strong programs in pharmacy, nursing, engineering, business, and education. The university is also recognized for its commitment to hands-on learning opportunities, personalized attention from faculty, and a vibrant campus in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Additionally, its Sidhu School of Business and Leadership and nationally accredited health sciences programs are widely respected.
3. What GPA do you need to get into Wilkes University?
To apply to Wilkes University, students typically need a minimum GPA of about 3.3 on a 4.0 scale. However, Wilkes offers a holistic admission process, so students with slightly lower GPAs may still be considered based on strengths in other areas such as standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, or essays.
4. Is Wilkes University a good college?
Yes, Wilkes University is considered a reputable institution with a strong focus on student success and practical learning. The university is known for small class sizes, experienced faculty, robust internship opportunities, and high job placement rates after graduation. It is also regionally accredited, which ensures strong academic standards.
5. What is the cost of attending Wilkes University?
The estimated tuition and fees at Wilkes University for undergraduate students for the 2024-2025 academic year are approximately $41,276 per year, not including room, board, and personal expenses. Financial aid and scholarship opportunities are widely available for eligible students.
6. What athletic division is Wilkes University football in?
The Wilkes University football team competes in the NCAA Division III and is a member of the Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC). The program emphasizes academics and athletics equally, providing a well-rounded student-athlete experience.
7. What is the acceptance rate at Wilkes University?
The most recent published acceptance rate at Wilkes University is around 85%. The university has a moderately selective admission process, welcoming a diverse range of applicants.
8. Where can I find the Wilkes University portal?
Students can access the official Wilkes University portal by visiting the university’s website and logging into the myWilkes portal at mywilkes.wilkes.edu. This portal provides access to class schedules, grades, resources, and campus announcements.
9. What jobs are available at Wilkes University?
Current employment opportunities at Wilkes University, including faculty, staff, and administrative positions, are listed on the official Wilkes University Human Resources careers page. The university frequently posts openings in a variety of departments such as teaching, student services, research, and campus operations.
10. What degrees does Wilkes University offer?
Wilkes University grants a range of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees across disciplines. Popular majors include pharmacy, nursing, engineering, business administration, computer science, education, and creative writing. Graduate and professional programs are also available in key health sciences and business fields.
11. What is the Wilkes University baseball division?
The Wilkes University baseball team participates in NCAA Division III athletics and is part of the Middle Atlantic Conference Freedom. Student-athletes enjoy competitive sports experiences along with academic support.
12. What is the address for Wilkes University admissions?
The main Wilkes University admissions office is located at: 84 W. South Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, 18766, USA. Prospective students may contact the office via phone or the official website for admissions information and campus visit scheduling.
