“The oldest women's college in America, dedicated to elevating women in health leadership and academic excellence.”
Salem College, founded in 1772, holds the distinction of being the oldest women's college in the United States and the oldest female educational establishment still operating as a women's college. Located in the heart of downtown Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Salem is exclusively dedicated to elevating and expanding women in health leadership, weaving this mission throughout its liberal arts curriculum. The college was founded on progressive principles by the Moravian church, which believed strongly in equal education for men and women, resulting in centuries of commitment to women's empowerment and education. With over 35 undergraduate majors and graduate programs in education, counseling, and music, Salem offers a comprehensive education rooted in liberal arts values emphasizing health, service, leadership, and social justice. The college's historic campus features the Single Sisters' House, built in 1785, which is the oldest building in the United States dedicated to the education of women. Salem's intimate learning environment with approximately 464 undergraduates creates meaningful connections between students, faculty, and the surrounding community, preparing women to become leaders, advocates, and changemakers in their fields.
Visa, OPT, H-1B alumni outcomes, and acceptance rates by country — sourced from FOIA, USCIS H-1B Hub, and DHS SEVIS.
Test Optional — You can submit scores if they help your case, but they're not required.
Official SourceRolling Admissions
Salem uses rolling admissions with regular decision deadline of March 15. Earlier submission encouraged for scholarship and housing consideration.
The deep admissions playbook beyond the headline acceptance rate — round-by-round breakdowns, nationality data, requirements, and contact paths.
Tuition & Fees (All Students)
$31,720
/yr
Beyond the sticker price — every named scholarship, the financial aid policy, need-aware notes, and a personalized net-cost estimate.
How life on campus actually feels — clubs, sports, traditions, housing realities, and how the school integrates with its city.
Programs dedicated to health leadership and patient care, including nursing, health sciences, and allied health fields emphasizing the college's mission to advance women in health.
Business education emphasizing entrepreneurship, digital marketing, and ethical business practices with a focus on preparing women leaders.
Programs in visual and performing arts, English, history, and foreign languages emphasizing cultural understanding and creative expression.
Disciplines including psychology, education, and social sciences focused on understanding human behavior and social change.
Graduate and undergraduate teacher education programs with state licensure and counseling education offerings.
4 years
Salem's nursing program aligns with the college's mission to advance women in health leadership, combining rigorous science education with clinical experience and emphasis on patient advocacy.
4 years
A modern business program preparing women leaders with skills in digital marketing, social media strategy, and contemporary business challenges alongside traditional business fundamentals.
2 years
Graduate programs serving working professionals and students seeking advanced preparation in education and mental health counseling.
Where alumni go after graduation — top industries, grad-school continuation, and the qualitative outcomes story.
