Founded in 1905, Gardner-Webb University. is a Private college. Located in North Carolina, which is a city setting in North Carolina, the campus itself is Town. The campus is home to 2,362 full time undergraduate students, and 1,553 full time graduate students.
The Gardner-Webb University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 13:1. There are 169 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Gardner-Webb University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
51%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
0
SAT Range
860-1110
ACT Range
18-24
Admissions at GWU are considered Selective, with ,22% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 10 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
74% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 41% were in the top quarter, and 19% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Gardner-Webb University.
3%
“We”re apathetic”
38%
“We know about current events and vote”
59%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
0%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
3%
“We save it for the classroom”
17%
“Sometimes, but not often”
66%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
14%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
0%
“I only go out in groups”
14%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
86%
“I feel extremely safe”
10%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
52%
“We bought the gear”
38%
“We live for the big game”
14%
“It”s not really our thing”
28%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
48%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
10%
“We”re a very artistic group”
0%
“Haven”t met them”
0%
“Available in class”
14%
“They keep regular office hours”
86%
“They”re always available”
75%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
21%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
4%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
0%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
43%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
29%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
25%
“We only party on weekends”
4%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
48%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
48%
“There might be people who do”
3%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
0%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
3%
“We”re apathetic”
38%
“We know about current events and vote”
59%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
0%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
3%
“We save it for the classroom”
17%
“Sometimes, but not often”
66%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
14%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
0%
“I only go out in groups”
14%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
86%
“I feel extremely safe”
10%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
52%
“We bought the gear”
38%
“We live for the big game”
14%
“It”s not really our thing”
28%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
48%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
10%
“We”re a very artistic group”
0%
“Haven”t met them”
0%
“Available in class”
14%
“They keep regular office hours”
86%
“They”re always available”
75%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
21%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
4%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
0%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
70 Students rated on-campus housing 3.8 stars. 17 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
47 Students rated off-campus housing 3 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
71 Students rated campus food 3.3 stars. 15 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
73 Students rated campus facilities 4 stars. 34 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
73 Students rated class size 4.7 stars. 74 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
72 Students rated school activities 3.9 stars. 31 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
72 Students rated local services 4 stars. 42 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
73 Students rated academics 3.9 stars. 42 % gave the school a 5.0.
Gardner-Webb University REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of Gardner-Webb University?
27 Students rated Gardner-Webb University
Stormi
As a student who recently had the opportunity to visit Gardner-Webb University, I was truly impressed by everything the campus has to offer. The first thing that stood out to me was how beautiful and well-kept the entire campus is. The picturesque landscaping, with its lush green spaces and charming walkways, creates a peaceful and welcoming environment that makes you feel like you're in the perfect place to learn and grow. The modern and spacious buildings complement the natural surroundings, giving the campus a fresh and inviting vibe. Whether walking around the main quad or sitting near one of the many peaceful spots on campus, the beauty of Gardner-Webb was immediately apparent, making it a place I could truly see myself spending the next few years. What really stood out to me, though, was the friendly and open atmosphere that defines the university. Everyone I interacted with, from the faculty and staff to the students, was so warm and welcoming. It was clear that the people at Gardner-Webb genuinely care about one another, creating a supportive, close-knit community. As someone who's looking for a place to not only pursue my studies but also build meaningful connections, I felt instantly at ease. Conversations were easy, and I was impressed with how willing everyone was to answer questions and share their experiences. It gave me a sense that this is a place where collaboration, kindness, and respect are highly valued. In addition to the beautiful setting and friendly people, I was also impressed by the facilities and resources available for students. From the academic buildings to the recreational spaces, everything is designed to foster a positive learning experience. The university truly seems dedicated to providing students with the tools they need to succeed academically, socially, and personally. Overall, my visit to Gardner-Webb University was an incredibly positive experience. The combination of a beautiful campus, a supportive and welcoming community, and excellent facilities makes it clear that this is a place where students are encouraged to thrive. I left feeling excited about the possibility of becoming a part of such a wonderful environment and confident that Gardner-Webb could be the perfect place for me to pursue my college education.
blake
Gardner-Webb is overall a really great school, throughout my time thusfar I have not experienced any problems or inconsistencies with any aspect of this school or my academic learning. I also really enjoy the fact that this is a Christian college, which shows everywhere you go as everyone is very friendly and kind.
Adam
Gardner Webb is a beautiful campus. I love how small the campus is and how close everything is. All the dorms and buildings are all walking distance from each other. Everyone on or off campus are all kind and nice. There is nothing this college doesn't have that any other college/university has.
Adam
Gardner-Webb is a small, beautiful campus with plenty of clubs to join and plenty of friends to make and we come together when events happen to make the campus environment one to live for and not to just stay coopted up in our dorms. Gardner-Webb is maybe 15-20 minutes from a lot of restaurants and grocery stores, but that is the only bad thing about the Campus. The sporting events are big too. We just won the Big South conference and made the playoffs for the first time, which is really big for our school. So, we had a bond fire that was really cool to enjoy with friends and players. Overall, Gardner-Webb is a 10 of 10 for me.
Aaliyah
Gardner-Webb is a good school in my opinion. The university itself is small, probably a little bigger than a large high school, so be prepared to know a lot of people; you constantly find yourself seeing the same people every day, which may get boring, but it only bonds the students even more. The campus life is preferred. There are a lot of activities and places to hang out with friends when you are housed on campus. The atmosphere is also very nice! The staff members and the students are all very welcoming and you don't find many rude students on campus. It is sort of placed in a small town so it's not for students who want the "city-life" and a bunch of stuff to do; you have to drive a bit (15-20 minutes) to get anywhere. Also, there are a lot of students who don't drive due to the campus being small. It takes about a 5 - 8 minute walk to get to class. You will also find the weather to be of variety (Snowy, rainy, sunny, windy, cold, warm) so bring all types of clothing. The athletics are of close nature; we all know and encourage each other on and off the field so it's generally a good fit for determined athletes. Overall, the school is a great place to be; of course, people have their preferrences.
Desiree
I loved Gardner Webb! The students and faculty were very nice and I loved how it was such a small campus and you had everything you need close by. I like the housing and the main building where you can chill and do your homework but socialize. I loved learning about the activities outside of the school and how they were a christian based school and they have a church on campus. I also found out that their crime rate is at a zero! Very very important to me and my family. I felt really valued and cared for when I went there to visit, I hope to attend there in the fall of 2020.
Alexis
Gardner-Webb University is one of the best colleges I have ever been too. I have been to my local community college, and this university. I liked my community college, but I am absolutely in love with Gardner-Webb University. This college has helped me come out of my shell, make new friends, and truly get the college experience.
Austin
Gardner-Webb is a good school that simply needs to find more of an identity and find a way to make money to update some very outdated facilities. This may be due to the "old money" factor of the school, but I think it is possible for Gardner-Webb to excel even in the current climate.
Hannah
While, I enjoyed my four years at Gardner-Webb, I would not recommend it because of the huge headache that it was to me and my family. Every month that tuition payment was due, they sent me late letters and argued that I had not paid, every time. I had so many complications that myself and the business office personnel were on first name bases. The academic programs I were involved in, were great, the professors were very accessible, no complaints there. I lived off campus so i was not able to participate in student life as much as my classmates which was unfortunate but at the time and due to cost of living on campus, I was unable to live on campus.
Kelsi
My opinion of Gardner-Webb University is that the classes are small enough for the professors to know each individual students name. The professors listen and will help in anyway they can. They will let you cry on their shoulder. Every student matters at Gardner- Webb University. There slogan is name over number.
Lashona
Gardner Webb University is very important to me. For me, I have the opporunity to strive for excellence more important I get to make a difference into my community. God has blessed me with a Christian based school to prosper on many levels. Thank you!
Madison
I think Gardner-Webb is a great place for people who are eager to get an education and learn more about themselves along the way. It is a great place to grow your faith as well as meet great people. The class sizes are great and the professors are always there to help.
Taylor
Gardner-Webb is such a great school. I knew the moment I stepped on campus that it was where I wanted to spend the next four years of my life. I’m going into my sophomore year and absolutely nothing has changed my mind, the only downfall is that it is expensive. I still love the school and don’t want to leave.
Chloe
I love it enough to attend next year and be apart of their honors program. It also is beautiful, peaceful, and I feel like it provides me the opertunity to be sussessful in the adult world. Of course I have only visted this place but I’ve visted five times and each time it feels more like home.
Olivia
Gardner-Webb is a private university that is small but not to small to find on a map. There are very few student activities on campus for students. Most students live close to campus so they go home on the weekends. The food in the cafe is really a hit and miss. There are a few places on campus to eat but there is no place open 24-hours. The student tucker center has good food and has more flexible hours. Housing needs to be updated because some rooms have mold in them while others have cracks in the walls. Carpets in the dorms have multiple unknown stains and Gardner-Webb cleaning staff does not always consider stains to be improatant. Other than the living conditions and food the classes are good. When it comes to taking classes on campus students are required to take two religion classes. These are an Old Testament and New Testament. Some of the professors in the religious departments say they are challenging you but when in the classroom it feels like they are shoving their beliefs at you. Other classes for your major are great because they do not feel a wase of time. There are student lead worship services held on Tuesdays which is fun to attend. Campus police are very nice and always roaming campus making everyone feel safe. Campus police offer rides on the golf carts to students which is great. Overall campus is nice to live at but for how much they charge it is not worth it in the long run.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Gardner-Webb University is 51%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
Respect yourself, family, God and others. Respecting one's self because college is a totally different atmosphere than that of high school. There are things that are happening around one, that if one participates in these things they could be lost and totally forget exactly why they have enrolled into college. There is ample peer pressure that is presented and if one do not respect themselves then they are surely to fail. By respecting one self, I also mean, not having sex with every female that is out there in the world. Come to school to make friends but most of all achieve a great college education. One must first understand that one's body is the "temple of God." Smoking weed or drining alcohol is not appreciating the great blessing that God has bestowed to us. Once one gets to college they must remember what they have been taught by one's family. Do not become overwhelmed by the college atmoshphere and lose sight of your family values. One must be able to decipher between what is wrong and what is right. Respect others because college is very social and to avoid arguments just learn to respect others.
My classmates come from many different backgrounds and have different opinions about things, but they are willing to come out of their comfort zones, are understanding, and, for the most part, care about their education.
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
It is a small, private college. Therefore, the teacher to student ratio is very small and I find that the professors are easily accessed if needed. They are also very passionate about helping in any way they possibly can. The other schools I considered did not have this luxury and I have found that it plays a large role in my success to be able to speak easily with professors.
My school is know for its wonderful friendly/sociable environment. Great professors is what this college is based upon and the student to teacher ratio is 13:1. Those numbers are significant because students have the liberty to talk to professors one-on-one. The different programs at this school is very accredited. This school has a wonderful Baptists foundation and the university incorporates those beliefs daily.
What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?
I wish I would have known that tuition was only going to increase, and extra help would not be given. I also wish I would have known that I wouldn't get any more scholarship for achieving academic success.
GWU excels at providing students an atmosphere that is familial. Students are not just a number on a role, or a means for the University to pay the bills. They are valued as individuals and collectively. At GWU, students are active participants in the educational process. Students learn as much from their peers, as they do through the instruction - as an intentional part of the educational process. During both my undergraduate and graduate degree pursuits, I felt the care and personal attention that is a trademark of GWU. They not only expect your best, but insure you reach heights you probably thought you never would.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
The worst thing about Gardner-Webb is the location. I don't mind it being in the country because that's where I grew up, but there aren't really fun things to do outside of the campus. It's a nice area to live in, but as far as activities and fun things to participate in, you are out of luck.
A Christian who is looking to further their education in a more libral setting. Gardner -Webb is for students are willing to step up and become adults, students who are ready to fulfill their roles as individuals. This school allows you to take more responsibility for yourself, rather than being forced to do something, you are highly encouraged to go out and do it yourself. It is for a student who values Christ and can stick to what they believe.
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?
What I brag abut most when I tell my friends about my school is having a small number of students in my classes, especially my classes for my major. Most classes at other universities have between 50-200 students in the class. At Gardner-Webb you will not find a class that has more than 20-25 students in them. Having a small number of students gives you a better one on one attention with the professor. In classes that have a large amount of students its hard to pay attention because your attention gets distracted by the other students.
What are the most popular student activities/groups?
GWU is in a small town and it can seem that nothing is going on, but if you want to find something to do it is not hard. A lot of the social life exists on the periphery of campus (aka house parties). Bottom line is that if you are bored and complain you have nothing to do you simply aren't trying to find anything to do.
Class size ratios are very student friendly. The professors are passionate about their subjects, and compassionate towards their students. Student failure is personal with them. Interaction among students-students and students-faculty occur on many levels. GWU is truly an academic community, not just a campus.
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?
A lot of people think that the school is full of bible beaters. As an atheist who goes to a Christian university, I can say that this is NOT accurate. While most students are religious, they don't shove it down your throat.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
100% of students attending Gardner-Webb University receive some sort of financial aid.
42% were awarded federal grants.65%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.