Applying for College
The college application process begins in the senior year of high school. Underclassmen should certainly begin researching their college options but application is made during the senior year.
Each college establishes procedures for application. There is no standard "format" for applying. It is important to check with the college(s) you wish to attend and make sure that you are following those instructions. Applying to college can be expensive. It is important to do your research before you apply. Learn about your potential college's admission requirements, as well as, visit the campus before you apply. You can learn so much about a college by visiting and talking with admissions personnel and students. Many colleges offer Open House dates. These are wonderful opportunties to learn what a college has to offer.
**A Note About Early Decision
A student needing to compare costs of colleges should NOT do Early Decision if it is Binding. Often times this is a binding contract between you and the college. It will not allow you to see which college gives you the best financial-aid package.
Who Gets In?
Each year students ask, "What must I make on the SAT or ACT to go to college?" Below is the most recent summary of the average scores of students who entered state colleges in North Carolina.
UNC Minimum Admissions Requirements:
For students entering in the Fall 2025 or Spring 2026 semesters:
High School GPA: A minimum weighted GPA of 2.5.
Standardized Test Scores: Students with a weighted High School GPA greater than or equal to 2.50 and less than 2.80 are required to submit a standardized test score (ACT or SAT).
For students entering in the Fall 2026 semester and beyond:
High School GPA: A minimum weighted GPA of 2.5.
Standardized Test Scores: Students with a weighted High School GPA greater than or equal to 2.50 and less than 2.80 are required to submit a standardized test score of a 17 or higher on the ACT or a 930 or higher on the SAT.
Please note that, while these are the minimum requirements for consideration, they do not guarantee acceptance.
Want to Compare More Colleges?This information is provided by a Collegeboard publication.
These websites offer a comparison of public and private institutions in North Carolina.
State Supported Institutions
https://www.northcarolina.edu/institutions/
Private Institutions
https://ncicu.org/find-your-college/