North Carolina State University 2025: Fees, Scholarships & Application Guide

North Carolina State University, founded in 1887, is a prominent public research university located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Ranked #58 among national universities, NCSU offers a wide range of academic programmes.

The university boasts accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, with select management programmes also holding AACSB International accreditation.

With a recent North Carolina State University acceptance rate of 41.7%, NCSU provides a challenging yet accessible academic environment.

A Brief History

The story of NC State begins with the Morrill Land-Grant Act of 1862, a pivotal piece of legislation signed by President Abraham Lincoln.

This act paved the way for endowing colleges focused on providing practical education in agriculture, military tactics, and mechanical arts without neglecting classical studies.

• In 1887, the North Carolina General Assembly authorised the establishment of the North Carolina College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts, later to become NC State University. 

• The college officially opened its doors on 3 October 1889, with 72 students enrolled in its first year.

• Over the years, NC State has undergone several transformations. In 1917, it was renamed North Carolina State College of Agriculture and Engineering. 

• During the Great Depression, it became part of the Consolidated University of North Carolina in 1931, along with the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the Woman’s College in Greensboro.

• The university officially became North Carolina State University at Raleigh in 1965.

Academics

North Carolina State University at Raleigh offers a wide array of academic programmes across various disciplines.

The university is organised into numerous colleges, each specialising in specific fields of study.

• College of Agriculture and Life Sciences: This college focuses on agricultural sciences, animal science, plant and soil sciences, and biotechnology.

• College of Engineering: NC State’s College of Engineering is one of the largest in the US, offering programmes in aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, civil engineering, computer engineering, and electrical engineering.

• College of Sciences: This college covers a broad spectrum of scientific disciplines, including mathematics, physics, chemistry, biological sciences, and marine, earth, and atmospheric sciences.

• College of Humanities and Social Sciences: This college offers programmes in communication, English, history, political science, psychology, and sociology.

• Poole College of Management: This college provides undergraduate and graduate programmes in business administration, accounting, economics, and management.

• College of Education: This college focuses on teacher education, educational leadership, and counselling.

• College of Design: This college offers programmes in architecture, landscape architecture, graphic design, and industrial design.

• College of Natural Resources: This college specialises in forestry, environmental science, and natural resources management.

NC State is particularly renowned for its STEM programmes, consistently ranking among the top in the nation.

The university’s commitment to research is evident through its numerous research centres and institutes, fostering innovation and discovery across various fields.

North Carolina State University Ranking

NC State consistently achieves high rankings both nationally and globally. It ranks 91 in the QS Ranking list. 

Here’s an overview of how it has ranked over the past years –

Ranking Body	2023	2024	2025
US News	72	60	58
THE	351	251	251
ARWU	201	201	– / –
QS	312	274	91

Admissions

Gaining admission to NC State is competitive. The North Carolina University’s acceptance rate for Fall 2024 was 41.7%.

Prospective students must demonstrate strong academic performance, typically through high school or previous university grades, standardised test scores (if required), and compelling personal essays.

Key NC State admission requirements include:

•    Completed application form
•    Official academic transcript
•    Standardised test scores (SAT or ACT, if required)
•    Letters of recommendation
•    Personal essays
•    English language proficiency scores (for international students)

NC State seeks students who excel academically and demonstrate leadership potential, extracurricular involvement, and a passion for learning.

The admissions committee holistically evaluates each application, considering a range of factors beyond academic achievements.

How to Apply?

Here’s everything you need to know to apply as a Freshman. Make sure to submit your application and all required materials by the deadline.

Here are some simple steps –

1. Review the Deadlines 

The application is available in August, and you may choose to apply by two deadlines. Your admission decision notification date is based on the deadline you choose to apply by and when your application is completed. 

2. Complete the Application 

Apply the Common App or the Coalition App of the University. For Studio-Based Majors, you must submit a portfolio with your application.

3. Pay the Application Fee 

There is a $85 non-refundable application fee, which is $100 for international applicants. You can either pay it online or provide an official fee waiver.

4. Self-report Your Test Scores  

In the application process, if your test scores reflect your academic ability, you can choose to submit them. If you do not have scores available or choose not to submit them, your application will not be negatively affected. If you decide to submit your test scores, you should self-report them on your application. SAT Essay or ACT Writing scores are not required.

5. Submit Your Transcript 

Your high school counsellor should submit official academic transcripts.

6. Check Your Status 

You can check your wolfPAW account frequently throughout the application process. You can see which documents and test scores are received or what may still be missing. Your wolfPAW account is also where you’ll get notified of your final admission decision.

Campus Life

NC State offers a vibrant and engaging campus life with many opportunities for students to get involved.

• Student Organisations: With over 600 student clubs and organisations, there is a community for almost every interest. These groups cover academic, cultural, social, and recreational activities.
• Sports and Recreation: NC State’s athletic teams, the Wolfpack, compete in the NCAA Division I Atlantic Coast Conference. Students can participate in various intramural sports, fitness programmes, and outdoor activities.
• Housing: On-campus housing is available in various residence halls and apartments. Living on campus provides students easy access to academic resources, social events, and support services.
• Events and Traditions: NC State hosts numerous annual events, including the North Carolina State Fair and Winterfest. These events foster a sense of community and provide opportunities for students to celebrate their shared experiences.
• Arts and Culture: The university has several museums, galleries, and performance venues that showcase the creative talents of students and faculty.

Research Opportunities

As a Research 1 University, NC State is committed to cutting-edge research across various disciplines.

Students have ample opportunities to engage in research projects, working alongside faculty members who are leaders in their respective fields.

Undergraduate research opportunities are available through programmes such as the Undergraduate Research Programme and the Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) programme.

These programmes provide students with hands-on research experience, allowing them to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.

Campus and Facilities

NC State’s campus spans 2,099 acres and includes state-of-the-art teaching, research, and recreation facilities.

• Holladay Hall: This historic building, formerly the Main Building, is one of the oldest structures on campus.
• D.H. Hill Jr. Library: This library provides access to extensive collections of books, journals, and online resources.
• Talley Student Union: This is a hub of student activity, offering dining options, meeting spaces, and recreational facilities.
• Reynolds Coliseum: This multi-purpose arena hosts athletic events, concerts, and large gatherings.
• Centennial Campus: This research park is home to numerous corporate, government, and university partners, fostering collaboration and innovation.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

NC State is committed to making education accessible and affordable. The university offers various financial aid options, including grants, loans, and work-study programmes.
Let’s take a look at some of them:

• Goodnight Scholars Program
  
  • Eligibility: Low and middle-income North Carolina residents pursuing degrees in STEM or education.
    
  • Award: Covers tuition, fees, room, and board for up to four years, plus access to professional development programs.
    
• Park Scholarships
  
  • Eligibility: Students demonstrating exceptional academic ability, leadership potential, and character.
    
  • Award: Comprehensive scholarship covering tuition, fees, and other educational expenses.
    
• Chancellor’s Leadership Scholarship
  
  • Eligibility: Students showing leadership potential, academic achievement, and financial need.
    
  • Award: Varies; focuses on supporting students who appreciate diversity.
    
• Cato Teacher Education Scholarship
  
  • Eligibility: Students exhibiting a strong work ethic and meaningful employment; selected based on financial need.
    
  • Award: Amount varies; recipients are expected to engage in volunteer service while at NC State.
    
• Clarence Poe Endowed Scholarship
  
  • Eligibility: North Carolina residents enrolled in any undergraduate curriculum in the College of Education based on academic excellence and leadership.
    
  • Award: The amount varies; it is awarded to students with notable extracurricular achievements.

Notable Alumni

NC State has produced numerous accomplished alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields.

Among the notable alumni are:

• Cullen Jones: Olympic swimmer and gold medallist.
• Robert Gibbs: Former White House Press Secretary.
• Subra Suresh: Former National Science Foundation Director and Carnegie Mellon University President.
• James Goodnight: Co-founder and CEO of SAS Institute.

These alumni exemplify the transformative power of an NC State education, demonstrating the potential for graduates to achieve success and positively impact the world.

Economic Impact

NC State has a significant economic impact on North Carolina and beyond. The university contributes to the state’s economy through research and development, workforce development, and job creation.

NC State’s research activities generate new knowledge and technologies that can be commercialised, leading to the formation of start-up companies and the growth of existing businesses. The university’s graduates contribute to the workforce, filling critical roles in various industries.

Challenges and Future Directions

Like many universities, NC State faces funding, enrollment growth, and maintaining academic excellence challenges. The university is committed to addressing these challenges through strategic planning, fundraising, and innovative programmes.

NC State’s strategic plan outlines its goals for the future, including enhancing student success, expanding research capacity, and strengthening community engagement. The university is focused on attracting and retaining talented faculty and staff, investing in state-of-the-art facilities, and fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.

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FAQs

1.  What is NC State University known for?

NC State University (NCSU) is a prominent public research university in Raleigh, North Carolina, founded in 1887. It’s particularly renowned for its STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programmes, consistently ranking among the top in the nation.

2.  What are the admission requirements for NC State?

Key admission requirements include a completed application form, official academic transcripts, standardised test scores (SAT or ACT, if required), letters of recommendation, personal essays, and English language proficiency scores (for international students). 

3.  What academic programmes does NC State offer?

NC State offers a wide array of academic programmes across various disciplines, organised into numerous colleges. These include the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, College of Engineering, College of Sciences, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Poole College of Management, College of Education, College of Design, and College of Natural Resources.

4.  What is campus life like at NC State?

NC State offers a vibrant and engaging campus life with over 600 student clubs and organisations catering to diverse interests. Students can participate in sports and recreation (including NCAA Division I athletics), live in on-campus housing, and attend annual events and traditions.

5.  Does NC State offer research opportunities for students?

Yes, as a Research 1 University, NC State is committed to cutting-edge research across various disciplines. Students have ample opportunities to engage in research projects alongside faculty members.