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Lees-McRae College

Banner Elk, North Carolina · Private (nonprofit)

Ranked #12 US News
Apr 10Application deadline

FindU Grade

B-Value
N/ACampus
B-Academics
C-Admissions
BStudent Life
B-Overall

About

Lees-McRae College is located in Banner Elk, North Carolina. It is a private (nonprofit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 817 students.

lmc.edu

Cost and aid

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$31,140
Out-of-state tuition$31,140
Room & board$13,730
Avg aid package$23,659
Students receiving aid37%
Pell grant recipients37%

Lees-McRae College's average net price is around $26,009, and 100% of students receive some form of financial aid. The college is recognized as a College of Distinction for its affordability. While tuition is approximately $31,140, the average total aid awarded is $19,843, making it a worthwhile investment for many students.

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Admissions

Application info

Acceptance rate81%
Average GPA3.58
Student–faculty ratio10:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$25

Application dates

Regular DecisionApr 1

Lees-McRae College has an acceptance rate of 81%, indicating a moderately selective admissions process. The college requires a personal essay or interview, official high school transcripts, and optional letters of recommendation. Transfer students must submit official college transcripts, and completed applications are typically reviewed within two weeks.

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Academics

Graduation rate45%
Retention rate62%
Student–faculty ratio10:1
Full-time faculty52%

Lees-McRae College offers a personal academic experience with approachable professors who invest in student success. The college emphasizes hands-on learning, especially in programs like Wildlife Biology and Art and Design. While some students note variability in faculty expertise, the college is known for its strong connection to the outdoors and mountain environment.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$43,415
Avg starting salary$38,074
Job placement rate94%
Earn more than HS grad70%
Economic mobility31%
Loan default (3 yr)7%
Loan repayment (3 yr)55%

Lees-McRae College prepares students for real-world experiences, integrating outdoor recreation and environmental sustainability into its curriculum. A reported 94% of graduates are employed one year after graduation. The college's focus on hands-on learning and faculty engagement contributes to positive career prospects for its alumni.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
817Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 67%Male 33%
74% WhiteRacial diversity
White 74%Black 8%Hispanic 5%Asian 2%Other 11%
Campus housingYes

Lees-McRae College fosters a close-knit community where nearly everyone knows each other, creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The campus culture is inclusive, with diversity in race, religion, and backgrounds. Students enjoy a variety of activities, with a strong emphasis on outdoor adventures like hiking, skiing, and rock climbing.

Student reviews

Campus and vibes

Student

I love Lees-McRae. This school is unlike any other school in the familial bond that it has students, staff, and community. The devastation of Hurricane Helene really showed the true colors of the school. Leadership members in the community, students, and faculty stepped up. The president of the college walked up to the college from his home to ensure students were safe. The school has excellent professors and are some of the top in their field. The college has really begun to flourish under current management in the past few years, and the future is exciting!

Student

Everyone is amazing- feels like family! Love the mountains and what all there is to do outdoors. Plus there are a bunch of different activities to get involved in as well.

About Lees-McRae College

Lees-McRae College is committed to providing a safe and secure environment, with Campus Police and Security on duty 24/7. The college employs a community-oriented policing approach and encourages students to use the Rave Guardian App for emergencies. While the campus is generally safe, students are advised to take precautions and report any suspicious activity.

The Lees-McRae College Honors Program offers academically gifted students an in-depth experiential learning experience. Honors students engage in a cross-disciplinary curriculum, attend special lectures, and participate in experiential learning opportunities. Participants receive an honors scholarship and are recognized for their academic abilities on their transcripts.

Endowment$34,836,868
Avg faculty salary$67,560

Lees-McRae College FAQ

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Lees-McRae College admits about 81% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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