North Carolina State University at Raleigh campus
North Carolina State University at Raleigh logo

North Carolina State University at Raleigh

Raleigh, NC · Public · 27,371 students

Discover Raleigh, NC, and experience the vibrant campus life.

Acceptance rate

41.7%

SAT (mid 50%)

1300–1470

Avg net price

$17,303

after aid

Next deadline

Nov 1

EA

Testing

Flexible

2026 cycle

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

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

North Carolina State University at Raleigh admitted 41.7% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That’s selective. Fewer than half of the students who apply get in.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1300–1470 on the SAT and 28–32 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 North Carolina State University at Raleigh actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Explore, Innovate, Think and Do

Sanskriti Deva is passionate about technology and innovation, especially when it relates to activism and social justice.

Students can explore over 100 degree programs, with opportunities for preprofessional and accelerated studies.

  • Majors and Minors100-plus degree programs
  • Preprofessional ProgramsCareer Development, Graduate and Accelerated Programs

Verified from ncsu.edu and admissions.ncsu.edu and admission.ncsu.edu and apply.ncsu.edu and international.ncsu.edu and admissions.ncsu.edu.

Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • Next deadlineNovember 1, 2026 (EA)
  • Regular decisionJanuary 15, 2027
  • TestingFlexible (2026 cycle)
  • Recommendations0 letters
  • Personal essayRequired
  • ApplicationCommon App

Verified from ncsu.edu.

The essays

Here are the supplemental essay prompts.

The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.

  • Explain why you selected the academic program(s) above and why you are interested in studying these at NC State.

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from ncsu.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $26,425. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $17,303.

First-year early action applicants receive priority consideration for scholarships and financial aid, and the 2026-2027 FAFSA is now available.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $68,758.

Verified from ncsu.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Business Administration, Management and Operations14% of degrees
  • Biology, General7% of degrees
  • Psychology, General5% of degrees
  • Computer Science4% of degrees
  • Mechanical Engineering4% of degrees
  • Animal Sciences4% of degrees

Campus life

Here’s the feel of the place.

“For some, it’s a tradition. For others, it’s their very first Packapalooza. Either way, it’s one of the best days to experience what makes NC State.”

Hillsborough Street comes alive during Packapalooza™, while the University Libraries offer spaces for studying, research, and expanding your mind.

LivelyUrbanTraditional

Quick answers

What do people ask about North Carolina State University at Raleigh?

Is North Carolina State University at Raleigh test-optional?
For the 2026 application cycle, standardized testing at North Carolina State University at Raleigh is flexible.
How hard is it to get into North Carolina State University at Raleigh?
Very hard. North Carolina State University at Raleigh admits 41.7% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1300 to 1470 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
When is the North Carolina State University at Raleigh application deadline?
The next deadline is November 1, 2026 (EA). Regular Decision closes January 15, 2027.
How much does North Carolina State University at Raleigh cost?
The list price is about $26,425. After aid, families pay $17,303 on average.
Is North Carolina State University at Raleigh worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $68,758 ten years after enrolling. 85% 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 North Carolina State University at Raleigh.

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