FindU
Find Your FitFor CollegesAboutBlog
Sign inGet Started
Home/Colleges/North Carolina/North Carolina Central University
North Carolina Central University campus photo 1
North Carolina Central University campus photo 2
North Carolina Central University campus photo 3
North Carolina Central University campus photo 4
North Carolina Central University campus photo 5
1 / 5
North Carolina Central University logo

North Carolina Central University

Durham, North Carolina · Public

Ranked #15 US News
$15k/yearCost after aid

FindU Grade

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

About

North Carolina Central University is located in Durham, North Carolina. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 5,400 students.

nccu.edu
HBCU

Cost and aid

True cost

Great value
$15kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$6,542
Out-of-state tuition$19,578
Room & board$14,760
Avg aid package$12,449
Students receiving aid57%
Pell grant recipients57%

North Carolina Central University offers an accessible education with in-state undergraduate tuition around $9,065 and out-of-state at $22,101. Niche.com reports a net price per year of $13,884. The university provides financial aid to 96% of its students, making it a valuable option for those seeking an affordable education.

What would you actually pay?FindU estimates your real net price for North Carolina Central University from your family income.
Calculate my net priceFree · 2 min

Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%980–1100
4001600
ACT · middle 50%17–18
136

Application info

Acceptance rate90%
Average GPA3.25
Student–faculty ratio16:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$50

North Carolina Central University has an acceptance rate of 90%, indicating it is moderately selective. The university requires a high school GPA and considers SAT/ACT scores, though they are not required. NCCU also accepts the Common Application, making it easier for students to apply.

Will you get into North Carolina Central University?FindU calculates your real admission odds from your stats.
Show me my oddsFree · 2 min

Academics

Graduation rate45%
Retention rate75%
Student–faculty ratio16:1
Full-time faculty70%

North Carolina Central University provides a supportive academic environment with a student-faculty ratio of 16:1 and an average class size of 21. The university is known for its flagship programs in sciences, education, law, business, nursing, and the arts. NCCU is also identified as a Community Engaged Institution by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$42,968
Avg starting salary$35,242
Job placement rate96%
Earn more than HS grad61%
Economic mobility284%
Loan default (3 yr)8%
Loan repayment (3 yr)25%

NCCU boasts a strong career placement rate, with 96% of graduates employed one year after graduation. The university's strategic location near Research Triangle Park provides students with access to internships and career opportunities in technology and research. NCCU also has a supportive alumni network that contributes to the university's ongoing success.

Student life

Demographics

Medium School
5,400Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 70%Male 30%
84% BlackRacial diversity
Black 84%Hispanic 5%White 4%Asian 1%Other 6%
Campus housingYes

NCCU offers a vibrant campus culture with over 130 registered student organizations and a strong sense of community. The university has a balanced political atmosphere and a diverse student body, with 84% African American students. Students describe the atmosphere as welcoming and supportive, with many opportunities for engagement and leadership.

Student reviews

Campus and vibes

Sophomore

My experience here at North Carolina Central University has been going well because you’re able to meet new people all the time especially in classes and different organizations. Central has many events that happen that are fun for the students as well as the alumni. I would like to see a change in housing, as well as some of the money programs provided here, additionally adding more teachers to biology majors.

Freshman

I love the atmosphere and how everyone is nice and speaks to you when you walk by. It feels like home. The professor are great too

Sophomore

North Carolina Central University offers a vibrant, community-focused experience rooted in its legacy as a historically Black university. Students appreciate the supportive faculty, diverse campus culture, and opportunities for academic and personal growth. Programs like BRITE and strong alumni networks enhance career readiness.

Freshman

The one thing I love the most about NCCU is the history that it’s built around, but I also enjoy the good vibes all around campus , I haven’t had any bad experiences with anybody here

Cost and value

Current Student

Though North Carolina Central University's tuition is higher than most other HBCUs in the state of North Carolina you do see the ways in which the money is being distributed. Not only have they built a three story state of the are cafeteria, but a new bookstore, parking garage, School of Nursing, and residence hall are being built to relieve pressure off of other dorms. Books are also available.

About North Carolina Central University

While some sources indicate safety concerns, North Carolina Central University is actively working to improve campus security. The university is implementing numerous capital projects focused on repairing and replacing aging infrastructure to improve the student and employee experience. They are also working to balance an open campus atmosphere with necessary security measures.

The University Honors Program (UHP) at NCCU prepares students to be world changers through co-curricular activities, faculty and peer mentorship, internship and fellowship opportunities, and professional and academic enrichment experiences. The program aims to provide a more challenging academic experience for high-achieving students. Honors students are eligible for membership in prestigious national and international honor societies.

North Carolina Central University welcomes international students, with students from 29 countries represented. The majority of international students come from Nigeria, India, and China. The university provides resources and support for international students, though specific details on visa support and ESL programs were not readily available.

Endowment$58,104,533
Avg faculty salary$112,776

North Carolina Central University FAQ

See if North Carolina Central University is right for you

Answer a few quick questions and FindU shows your match score, your admission chances, and the scholarships you qualify for.

Show me my matchesFree · takes 2 minutes · no account needed to start
FindU Match
Free

Will you get into North Carolina Central University?

North Carolina Central University admits about 90% 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.

76%Your chances
Match
Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
See your real result
Show me my chancesFree · takes 2 minutes · no account needed to start

More colleges in North Carolina

Vance-Granville Community College

Henderson, North Carolina

BOverall$5k/yr net

North Carolina Wesleyan University

Rocky Mount, North Carolina

C+Overall78% admit

University of North Carolina Wilmington

Wilmington, North Carolina

A-Overall74% admit

Johnson C Smith University

Charlotte, North Carolina

C+Overall43% admit

South University-High Point

High Point, North Carolina

C+Overall

Cape Fear Community College

Wilmington, North Carolina

B+Overall$5k/yr net
All colleges in North Carolina
Is North Carolina Central University your match?Get my match
FindU

Find Your Fit

  • Take college quiz
  • Scholarship search
  • College Search
  • Browse all tools

Company

  • About
  • Blog
  • Careers

For Partners

  • For Colleges
  • For Counselors
  • Contact Us

Legal

  • Privacy
  • Terms

Join our newsletter