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Gardner-Webb University logo

Gardner-Webb University

Boiling Springs, North Carolina · Private (nonprofit)

Ranked #356 US News

FindU Grade

BValue
N/ACampus
BAcademics
C-Admissions
B-Student Life
B-Overall

About

Gardner-Webb University is located in Boiling Springs, North Carolina. It is a private (nonprofit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 1,836 students.

gardner-webb.edu

Cost and aid

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$33,450
Out-of-state tuition$33,450
Room & board$10,770
Avg aid package$24,130
Students receiving aid27%
Pell grant recipients27%

Gardner-Webb University aims to provide value with a low sticker price and various financial aid opportunities. Automatic merit scholarships range from $6,000 to $23,000 per year, and competitive programs like the GOAL Scholarship and Ignite Excellence Scholarship can cover full tuition. The average net price is around $24,035, though this can be reduced through financial aid and scholarships.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%1040–1260
4001600
ACT · middle 50%20–26
136

Application info

Acceptance rate87%
Average GPA3.72
Student–faculty ratio11:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$0

Gardner-Webb has a moderately selective admissions process with an acceptance rate around 60-79%. Admissions are conducted on a rolling basis, and the university considers SAT/ACT scores, though they are not required. The university looks for students who exemplify academic excellence, leadership, and service.

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Academics

Graduation rate57%
Retention rate69%
Student–faculty ratio11:1
Full-time faculty99%

Gardner-Webb offers a faith-based education with small class sizes, averaging 13 students, and accessible professors. The university fosters an intellectual environment that balances faith and intellectual freedom. With a 11:1 student-faculty ratio, students are immediately part of a close-knit community.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$48,039
Job placement rate96%
Earn more than HS grad74%
Economic mobility122%
Loan default (3 yr)4%
Loan repayment (3 yr)51%

Gardner-Webb prepares graduates for leadership and service in their careers and personal lives. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and rigorous degree programs to shape students into thinkers and world-changers. Graduates are equipped with skills to advance knowledge and make a positive impact.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
1,836Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 64%Male 36%
50% WhiteRacial diversity
White 50%Black 16%Hispanic 4%Asian 1%Other 29%
Campus housingYes

Gardner-Webb provides a vibrant campus life with over 50 clubs and organizations. The university is known for its strong school spirit, especially at athletic events. While the party scene is limited, students enjoy a safe and friendly atmosphere with a close-knit community.

Student reviews

Campus and vibes

Freshman

My experience here in Gardner-Webb is amazing. At first, I was scared that I might not like it, but now, I'm just glad that I made my decision on applying here. The professors here are funny, kind, and helpful, the classes aren' t really that hard when you know the studied long enough, and I'm making fw friends every week. There were some hard times, but I had people to support me. It was thanks to them that I'm the man today. I believe that by the end of this, I will finally be ready to pursue my dreams of being a musician.

Student

Coming in as a transfer student at Gardner-Webb, I wasn’t really sure what to expect. However, the campus is more than beautiful and the people there are like family. Being that this is more of a community than a college it allows you to create genuine bonds with the people who are there. The professors care about the students and want them to actually learn the material. The campus life can be really good some weeks being that the school constantly holds events that students can attend. However, sometimes it can be really dry on campus being that a lot of people go back home on the weekends. I think that realizing that everyone had experienced the first time being away from home and having to make new friends really helps a lot, because it allows you to step out your comfort zone and put yourself in the situation to do so. I believe that this definitely works at Gardner- Webb because the community that they build there is very strong and caring. They are always looking to help others.

Student

I really haven’t started yet, but i’ve been in multiple activities with them and they are awesome. And extremely helpful, I’m an international student and they have helped me in ways I’ve never imagined.

Student

i like how close knit of a community gardner webb is. with it being a smaller school everyone knows everyone and it can create a very intimate experience because of this.

Senior

Gardner-Webb University offers a close-knit, faith-based educational environment with small class sizes and supportive faculty. Located in a quiet, rural area of North Carolina, it emphasizes Christian values, academic excellence, and personal growth. Students benefit from a strong sense of community, accessible professors, and active campus ministries. While the setting is peaceful, it may feel somewhat limited in terms of entertainment or diversity for some. Overall, GWU is ideal for students seeking a values-driven, personalized college experience.

Cost and value

Student

I am an incoming freshman I would be playing division 1 soccer for the school and I am looking for as much financial help possible . I am a first ever student to go to college in my family so our budget isn’t big .

About Gardner-Webb University

Gardner-Webb is ranked #1 in campus safety, providing a secure environment for its students. The university emphasizes a safe campus environment with professional campus police that students find approachable and reassuring. The community is described as tight-knit, vigilant, and inclusive, with low incidences of serious safety issues.

The University Honors Program nurtures academically qualified students in all majors, emphasizing enriched learning experiences and leadership. Honors students benefit from smaller classes, research funding, and faculty mentorship. The program requires a minimum of 24 semester hours of Honors courses, community engagement, and an approved Undergraduate Honors Thesis.

Gardner-Webb's student body includes students from 41 countries, creating a diverse and globally engaged community. The university represents 44 states and 91 North Carolina counties. International students are supported through various resources and integrated into the close-knit campus environment.

Endowment$72,478,059
Avg faculty salary$80,892

Gardner-Webb University FAQ

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