Resources for Students in North Carolina

Going to College in the Tarheel State

Going to school in the Tarheel State may be especially attractive if you’re interested in pursuing a degree in business, banking, or a similar topic. Students and graduates should have ample opportunities to network in these industries across the state.

According to CNBC, North Carolina ranks as the top state for business. It is also home to one of the largest banking centers in the United States. Charlotte recently emerged as the second-largest banking center in the country.

Furthermore, a 2023 North Carolina Department of Commerce report shows that inflation has affected North Carolina residents less than other Americans due to strong wage growth. This positive economic trend makes North Carolina an attractive state to earn a degree and start a career.

This guide features top resources for students earning a degree in North Carolina and answers frequently asked questions about colleges in the state.

Frequently Asked Questions About North Carolina Colleges

How many colleges are in North Carolina?

More than 60 four-year colleges can be found across North Carolina. Options include public, private, and for-profit institutions. You can also explore the state’s many community, junior, and technical colleges.

Before applying, you should compare scholarship opportunities and student resources by checking out schools’ student services websites. School staff and admissions counselors can also help you understand how to access resources, maintain your grades, and prepare for a career after graduation.

What is the hardest school to get into in North Carolina?

A Duke University article from March 2023 reports that the school admitted only 6% of applicants for the class of 2027. This figure was even lower (4.8%) for students who applied through the regular-decision process. If you want to apply to Duke, you should also apply to a few safety schools given how selective its admissions process is.

What is the biggest college in North Carolina?

Situated in Raleigh, North Carolina State University is the biggest school in the state, educating over 36,000 students annually. At NC State, you can select from over 100 undergraduate majors, and the school admits a relatively high percentage of applicants (47% of first-year applicants in 2022).