North Carolina State University (NC State), located in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a prominent public research institution known for its competitive admissions process. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), NC State reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 47.0%, reflecting a selective yet accessible admissions landscape. This rate is influenced by a growing applicant pool, with over 40,000 students applying annually in recent years, driven by the university’s strong programs in engineering, agriculture, and technology. NC State maintains transparency in its admissions data, often publishing detailed statistics through its official website and the Common Data Set, accessible at admissions.ncsu.edu.
Over the past decade, NC State’s acceptance rate has gradually declined from around 50% to the current 47.0%, signaling increasing competitiveness as more students seek its affordable, high-quality education. The Early Action option often yields a marginally higher acceptance rate, encouraging applicants to apply early for better odds. International admissions remain more selective due to space constraints and visa considerations. Compared to peer institutions like the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (acceptance rate around 17%), NC State offers a more accessible pathway while maintaining rigorous standards, particularly in STEM fields. As application numbers continue to rise, prospective students are advised to focus on strong academic profiles and extracurriculars to stand out in this evolving admissions landscape.
