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Salem College and Lees-McRae College are both private nonprofit institutions — Salem College in Winston-Salem, NC and Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk, NC. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Winston-Salem, NC · Private
Acceptance rate: 76.7%
Undergrad enrollment: 423
Tuition: $33,848/year
Student-faculty ratio: 9.0:1
Graduation rate: 57.4%
Top programs: Visual and performing arts, Health professions, Business and marketing
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Winston-Salem, NC with published program strength in Visual and performing arts and Health professions.
Banner Elk, NC · Private
Acceptance rate: 76.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 873
Tuition: $33,250/year
Student-faculty ratio: 11.0:1
Graduation rate: 42.1%
Top programs: Biological sciences, Business and marketing, Education
Best for: Students who want a private campus in Banner Elk, NC with published program strength in Biological sciences and Business and marketing.
| Factor | Salem College | Lees-McRae College |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 76.7% | 76.8% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1066–1243 |
| Not reported |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 16–22 | 23 average |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 423 | 873 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $33,848/year | $33,250/year |
| Average net price after aid | $18,277 | $28,340 |
| Graduation rate | 57.4% | 42.1% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $44,640 | $43,415 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Institution type | Private nonprofit | Private nonprofit |
| Location | Winston-Salem, NC | Banner Elk, NC |
| Largest program areas | Visual and performing arts, Health professions, Business and marketing | Biological sciences, Business and marketing, Education |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (76.7% vs 76.8%). Salem College has a lower average net price after grant aid ($18,277 vs $28,340). Salem College reports the higher graduation rate (57.4% vs 42.1%). Lees-McRae College is the larger undergraduate campus (873 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
Common questions when choosing between Salem College and Lees-McRae College
Salem College has an acceptance rate of 76.7%; Lees-McRae College is around 76.8%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Salem College tuition is $33,848/year. Lees-McRae College is $33,250/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
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