University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill campus
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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC · Public · 20,752 students

Acceptance rate

15.3%

SAT (mid 50%)

1390–1530

Avg net price

$11,655

after aid

Next deadline

Oct 15

EA

Testing

Optional

2026 cycle

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill admitted 15.3% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That’s a low rate. Treat it as a reach unless the rest of your profile is very strong.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1390–1530 on the SAT and 28–34 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • Next deadlineOctober 15, 2026 (EA)
  • Regular decisionJanuary 15, 2027
  • TestingOptional (2026 cycle)
  • Recommendations1 letters
  • Personal essayRequired
  • ApplicationCommon App

Verified from https://www.unc.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $26,055. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $11,655.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $72,200.

Verified from https://www.unc.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Biology, General8% of degrees
  • Communication and Media Studies8% of degrees
  • Behavioral Sciences8% of degrees
  • Economics7% of degrees
  • Computer Science7% of degrees
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations6% of degrees

Quick answers

What do people ask about University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill?

Is University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill test-optional?
For the 2026 application cycle, standardized testing at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is optional.
How hard is it to get into University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill?
Very hard. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill admits 15.3% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1390 to 1530 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
When is the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill application deadline?
The next deadline is October 15, 2026 (EA). Regular Decision closes January 15, 2027.
How much does University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill cost?
The list price is about $26,055. After aid, families pay $11,655 on average.
Is University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $72,200 ten years after enrolling. 92% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.

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Ask Spike anything about University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Spike answers from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.