University of North Carolina acceptance rate 2025
Quick Answer
University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW) has an acceptance rate of 64.24% as of the 2025-2026 academic year, making it a moderately selective public institution. In-state tuition is $7,277 annually, while out-of-state tuition reaches $24,152. Graduates earn a median of $54,967 ten years after enrollment, reflecting the value of a UNC Wilmington degree in the job market.
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UNCW admitted 64.24% of applicants for the 2025-2026 academic year, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). With a total enrollment of 14,922 students, UNCW maintains a balanced admissions approach that welcomes a substantial portion of qualified applicants while remaining selective enough to maintain academic standards.
The 64.24% acceptance rate indicates that UNCW is more accessible than highly selective institutions but still competitive compared to open-enrollment community colleges. This acceptance rate reflects UNCW’s position as a public regional university that prioritizes access while maintaining academic rigor.
SAT & ACT Scores
Data on standardized test score ranges (25th-75th percentile SAT and ACT composite scores) is not available in the current dataset. Prospective students should contact UNCW’s Office of Admissions directly or visit the official UNCW admissions website for current testing requirements and score ranges for admitted students.
Tuition & Costs
University of North Carolina at Wilmington Tuition & Fees (2025-2026):
| Cost Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| In-State Tuition & Fees | $7,277 |
| Out-of-State Tuition & Fees | $24,152 |
| Average Net Price | $20,109 |
| Median Student Debt | $19,500 |
For in-state students, UNCW offers one of the more affordable tuition rates within the UNC system. Out-of-state students pay significantly more, though the average net price of $20,109 reflects the impact of financial aid packages in reducing the actual cost for many students. Students should budget for additional expenses including room and board, books, and personal expenses beyond the tuition figures listed above.
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The average net price for students at UNCW is $20,109, which represents the average amount students pay after accounting for grants and scholarships. This figure is substantially lower than the sticker price, particularly for in-state students, demonstrating the significant role of financial aid in making UNCW accessible.
The median student debt of $19,500 upon graduation suggests that many UNCW students finance their education through a combination of grants, scholarships, and loans. Prospective students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. UNCW also offers institutional scholarships and merit-based aid to qualifying applicants.
Graduation Rates
UNCW reports a completion rate of 70.66% as of the most recent data collection. This six-year graduation rate indicates that approximately seven in ten students who enroll at UNCW complete their degree within six years. This rate is comparable to many public regional universities and reflects UNCW’s commitment to student success and degree completion.
Post-Graduation Earnings
Graduates of UNCW earn a median of $54,967 ten years after initial enrollment, according to data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. This earnings figure demonstrates the economic value of a UNCW degree and suggests solid career outcomes for graduates across various fields of study.
Earnings vary significantly by major and career field. Students in engineering, business, and health professions typically earn higher salaries, while those in education and social sciences may earn less. Prospective students should research salary outcomes for their specific intended major when evaluating UNCW’s value proposition.
Popular Majors
Specific data on the top ten majors by degrees awarded at UNCW is not available in the current dataset. Prospective students interested in learning about popular programs should visit UNCW’s official website or contact the Office of Admissions for detailed information about degree offerings, program enrollments, and major-specific outcomes.
Demographics
Demographic breakdowns by race/ethnicity and gender for UNCW’s student body are not included in the current dataset. Students seeking detailed enrollment demographics should consult UNCW’s official institutional research office or the College Scorecard website, which provides comprehensive demographic information updated regularly.
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FAQ
What is the University of North Carolina at Wilmington acceptance rate?
UNCW’s acceptance rate is 64.24% for the 2025-2026 academic year, meaning the university admits roughly two-thirds of applicants. This makes UNCW moderately selective—more competitive than open-enrollment institutions but more accessible than highly selective universities.
How much does it cost to attend UNCW?
In-state tuition is $7,277 per year, while out-of-state tuition is $24,152 annually. However, the average net price students actually pay is $20,109 after accounting for financial aid. Students should also budget for room and board, books, and personal expenses beyond tuition.
What are typical earnings for UNCW graduates?
UNCW graduates earn a median of $54,967 ten years after enrollment. Earnings vary by major and career field, with engineering, business, and health professions typically offering higher salaries than education or social sciences.
How long does it take to graduate from UNCW?
UNCW reports a 70.66% completion rate, meaning approximately 71% of students graduate within six years. Most full-time students complete their degree in four years, though some take longer due to course loads, major changes, or other factors.
Does UNCW offer financial aid to out-of-state students?
Yes, UNCW offers financial aid to both in-state and out-of-state students through federal grants, loans, work-study, and institutional scholarships. Out-of-state students should complete the FAFSA and contact the Office of Financial Aid to learn about merit-based scholarships and other aid opportunities.
How selective is UNCW compared to other UNC schools?
With a 64.24% acceptance rate, UNCW is more accessible than flagship institutions like UNC Chapel Hill but maintains academic standards appropriate for a regional university. Each UNC campus serves different missions and student populations, so comparisons should consider institutional focus and program offerings.
Data Sources
The statistics and figures in this article are sourced from:
- National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), data fetched April 11, 2026
- U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, covering the most recent available academic year
Readers are encouraged to verify current tuition rates, acceptance rates, and financial aid information directly with the University of North Carolina at Wilmington Office of Admissions and Office of Financial Aid, as these figures are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, visit uncw.edu.