North Carolina Central University

North Carolina Central University is located in Durham, NC, 27707, set within a city environment that shapes the daily student experience. The university is ranked #27 among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. It offers programs at the bachelor’s degree level, serving students with a range of academic interests and career aspirations.

North Carolina Central University has an acceptance rate of 87%, providing broad access to higher education and welcoming students from diverse academic backgrounds. Successful applicants typically present SAT scores of 913-1090 and ACT scores of 15-21. The average high school GPA among enrolled freshmen is 3.3. Applications are due by Aug. 1, so students should plan their materials well in advance.

North Carolina Central University enrolls 6,595 undergraduate students, creating a mid-sized community where students can explore diverse academic interests while still being recognized by their professors. The student-to-faculty ratio is 14:01, meaning professors are accessible for office hours, research mentorship, and one-on-one guidance. Approximately 42% of classes have fewer than 20 students, fostering the kind of seminar-style discussion and hands-on collaboration that deepens real understanding. The institution achieves a four-year graduation rate of 26%, a strong indicator that students receive the support they need to finish on time and move into their careers or further study.

Room and board adds approximately $15,560. However, the average net price after financial aid is $14,014, which is the amount most aided students actually pay — often considerably less than the sticker price. Need-based aid averages $16,448 per recipient, demonstrating the institution's commitment to making education financially accessible. For families evaluating the return on a college investment, these figures — combined with North Carolina Central University's academic reputation and graduate outcomes — provide a concrete basis for comparison.

Choosing a college is one of the most significant decisions a student and family will make. North Carolina Central University combines nationally recognized academic quality, a favorable student-to-faculty ratio, meaningful financial aid to create an environment where students can grow intellectually, build professional skills, and form lasting connections. We encourage prospective students to explore the detailed data on this page to determine whether North Carolina Central University is the right fit for their academic and personal goals.