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University of North Carolina Asheville

Asheville, North Carolina · Public

Ranked #132 US News
$13k/yearCost after aid
Mar 1Application deadline

FindU Grade

BValue
N/ACampus
BAcademics
C-Admissions
B+Student Life
BOverall

About

University of North Carolina Asheville is located in Asheville, North Carolina. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 2,790 students.

unca.edu

Cost and aid

True cost

Great value
$13kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$7,461
Out-of-state tuition$24,809
Room & board$11,018
Avg aid package$3,870
Students receiving aid31%
Pell grant recipients31%

UNC Asheville offers an affordable education, with 80% of students receiving need or merit-based financial aid. The recently launched Access Asheville program guarantees tuition and fees for qualified North Carolina residents, making it a strong value for in-state students. The university is committed to combining academic excellence with affordability, ensuring access for students from diverse economic backgrounds.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%1170–1350
4001600
ACT · middle 50%22–29
136

Application info

Acceptance rate94%
Average GPA3.40
Student–faculty ratio11:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$75

Application dates

Regular DecisionMar 1

UNC Asheville seeks budding discoverers, entrepreneurs, innovators, and creators, with an acceptance rate of 94%. The university looks for students with strong academic records, leadership potential, and a demonstrated interest in contributing to the community. The admissions process considers the strength of the curriculum, grades, writing skills, recommendations, and potential for impact.

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Academics

Graduation rate57%
Retention rate73%
Student–faculty ratio11:1
Full-time faculty76%

UNC Asheville provides a dynamic academic experience rooted in the liberal arts and sciences, emphasizing critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning. Small class sizes, averaging 15 students, foster personalized attention and collaborative relationships with professors. The university is known for its undergraduate research opportunities, with 65% of students participating in faculty-mentored projects.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$44,030
Avg starting salary$30,000
Job placement rate95%
Earn more than HS grad62%
Economic mobility70%
Loan default (3 yr)6%
Loan repayment (3 yr)60%

UNC Asheville prepares graduates for impactful careers and lives of meaning and purpose, focusing on developing critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and teamwork skills. An average of 67% of graduates conduct collaborative research or complete creative endeavors with faculty mentors. Over 90% engage in high-impact learning experiences like internships and study abroad, with nearly one-quarter pursuing advanced degrees for management and leadership roles.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
2,790Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 59%Male 41%
74% WhiteRacial diversity
White 74%Hispanic 10%Black 5%Asian 1%Other 9%
Greek lifeYes
Campus housingYes

UNC Asheville offers a vibrant campus life in the thriving city of Asheville, with a strong sense of community and numerous opportunities for engagement. With over 70 clubs and organizations, students can participate in honor societies, intramural sports, and various activities. The university is committed to sustainability and offers a range of eco-friendly initiatives.

Student reviews

Campus and vibes

Current Student

There are vegan and vegetarian options and it really allows for healthy eating.

Current Student

If you're an extreme health-nut or not a health-nut at all, eating at UNCA can be a little bit difficult. The quality of the food in the cafeteria wanes and waxes without warning, but there's always the other food courts scattered about the campus. UNCA supports the vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, and offers gluten free options as well.

Current Student

Not just burgers, fries and pizza. There are plenty of healthy options along with a strong consideration for vegetarians and vegans.

Current Student

The cafeteria has recently been updated this past semester. However, most students have complained that it's still not very good. You won't get 5-star meals and most of their ingredients are not organic or nutritional.

Current Student

The dining hall has excellent and diverse options every day, including daily vegetarian and vegan options. There are also multiple other satellite restaurants and cafes around campus. There are no fast-food chain options, and every place to get food has high-quality options.

Current Student

Be yourself and do not take too many or too little credit hours the first semester. Also, find out how to use the bus and taxi system. It is really helpful knowing how to get downtown or get home.

Current Student

Don't come to Asheville expecting everything to be tough and strict. The atmosphere is softer and less abrasive than that of a typical college. The authority figures here expect you to look after yourself rather than them constantly telling you what you should and shouldn't be doing. If you prefer to move at your own pace with only the guidance of due dates and your GPA, then UNCA is for you. Expect to walk around a lot, as Asheville is a city of health-junkies, and don't come live on campus unless you enjoy a certain amount of nature and cold winters.

Current Student

I would take a tour of the campus to see if it's a good fit. While there, be sure to ask students walking around what they think of the school. Also, try and meet with a professor in your major to ask questions about the curriculum and opportunities they have for students.

Cost and value

Current Student

Be ready to work, but you are certainly getting your money's worth.

About University of North Carolina Asheville

UNC Asheville prioritizes campus safety with 24-hour security patrols, emergency phones, and escort safety rides. The university also offers a mobile campus emergency alert system to ensure students are informed and protected. These measures contribute to a secure and supportive environment for students.

UNC Asheville's University Honors Program offers academically challenging courses, research projects, and leadership opportunities for high-achieving students. The program provides exclusive courses, honors housing, and dedicated study spaces. Students can graduate with Distinction as a University Honors Scholar, gaining access to scholarships and recognition for their academic excellence.

Endowment$71,345,515
Avg faculty salary$106,572

University of North Carolina Asheville FAQ

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University of North Carolina Asheville admits about 94% 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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