10 Best HBCUs in North Carolina

Founded in 1891, North Carolina A&T State University (N.C. A&T) is located just a few minutes outside of downtown Greensboro, North Carolina. Students will find much to do — both on and off campus. 

N.C. A&T students have access to a robust library, a state-of-the-art student center, and a rich cultural environment. Its engineering program produces more Black engineers than any university in the country, the school reports, and its agriculture program also produces the most Black graduates in this field. 

Beyond engineering and agriculture, N.C. A&T students can pursue bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in a variety of areas.

Application requirements for incoming first-year students vary based on age. For those under 21, requirements include four units of English, four units of math, two units of social studies, and more. The average GPA for first-year students in 2023 is 3.766 (weighted).

Fayetteville State University (FSU) offers an inclusive and vibrant educational experience. Dating back to 1867, FSU has a powerful track record of academic excellence and community engagement. In 1877, FSU, then known as State Colored Normal School, became the first state-sponsored institution to educate Black teachers in the South.

FSU believes that finances should never be a barrier to education — the university has some of the lowest tuition rates in the state of North Carolina. 

FSU boasts more than 100 student clubs where students can pursue their unique academic passions. There are plenty of ways to get involved, from sororities to fraternities to public service and academic clubs.

Admissions requirements include:

• Official high school transcripts
• Official SAT or ACT scores
• A 250-word personal statement
• A $50 non-refundable application fee

Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) is known for its commitment to justice, inclusion, academic excellence, and community engagement. Founded in 1892, WSSU has 39 undergraduate majors, 50 undergraduate minors, and a host of graduate degrees.

WSSU is ranked number one amongst all HCBUs for social mobility. The school provides affordable education and also prioritizes post-graduation career placement. 

Admission requirements include a $50 application fee, an undergraduate application, and official high school transcripts. WSSU is waiving SAT/ACT scores until 2024. 

North Carolina Central University (NCCU) recently celebrated its 110th anniversary. The school is heralded as a top HBCU. Students at NCCU can expect small class sizes, enabling them to receive personalized support and attention from faculty members. 

NCCU also greatly values community engagement and public service. Located in Durham, North Carolina, students can explore the city and take in the rich history of Black innovation. 

Admissions requirements include a 2.5 cumulative GPA, four units of English, four units of math, and foreign language units.

Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) prides itself on academic excellence, diversity, and student-centered learning. The school prioritizes affordability and is ranked as the top HBCU in the nation for low-income and moderate-income students. ECSU is also ranked number ten in the nation for social mobility.

The school has a wide range of undergraduate programs to choose from, including:

• Military science
• Aviation
  Business
• Kinesiology

With all that ECSU has to offer, students are sure to find something that aligns with their passions and interests.

Located in Charlotte, North Carolina, Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) values innovation and leadership and is well-known for its liberal arts and business programs. JCSU offers 23 degree programs. 

College athletes may be a great fit for JCSU. The school is NCAA Division 2 and has 15 sports teams for students to participate in. At JCSU, you can also expect small class sizes and one-on-one faculty support. 

Application requirements include an application fee and transcripts. ACT or SAT scores are optional.

Founded in 1865, Shaw University is a private liberal arts college that is affiliated with the Baptist church. Shaw University is one of the oldest HBCUs in the nation and is a pioneer in higher education. 

Shaw University's Leonard Medical School was the first four-year medical school established in North Carolina, which operated for 36 years from 1882 until 1918. It trained nearly 400 physicians during this time. Additionally, it was the first HBCU to admit women. 

Shaw students enjoy small class sizes and a learner-centered campus culture. With a campus population of about 1,000 students, Shaw University is a great fit for those who value learning with a tight-knit group of peers. 

Admissions requirements include but are not limited to three units of natural science, three units of math, three units of social sciences, and a minimum GPA of 2.0.

Bennett College is an all-women's liberal arts college. The school focuses on educating Black women and women of color, valuing civic engagement, leadership, and innovation. Those who enjoy small learning communities with one-on-one faculty attention may be a great fit for Bennett College. 

The school has strong STEM, humanities, and social sciences programming. Bennett College is a top school for social mobility and is associated with the United Methodist Church. 

Bennett College admissions requirements include a personal essay and official transcripts. Test scores are optional.

Saint Augustine's University (SAU) is a small liberal arts college in Raleigh, North Carolina. The Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina established the school in 1867. Enrollment at SAU is about 1,000 students, meaning you can expect small class sizes and personalized academic support. The campus has colleges in business, education, arts, and social sciences. Located just a few minutes outside of downtown Raleigh, students can travel into the city to enjoy the arts, music, and great local restaurants.

Admission requirements include a 2.0 GPA, official high school transcripts, and a 2.0 GPA.

Founded in 1879, Livingstone College provides a Christian-based and learner-centered educational environment. Livingstone has majors in business, liberal arts, education, and STEM. If you're passionate about athletics and academics, Livingstone College may be a great fit.

Livingstone College has 12 Division II Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association teams. Livingstone College prioritizes holistic education and affordability — over 75% of students receive some kind of financial aid. 

Admissions requirements vary, and you can apply online. To learn more about admissions requirements, contact Livingstone College directly.