Quick Links
Quick Links
SAT
SAT Prep
Good SAT Score
1600 SAT Score 1590 SAT Score 1580 SAT Score 1570 SAT Score 1560 SAT Score 1550 SAT Score 1540 SAT Score 1530 SAT Score 1520 SAT Score 1510 SAT Score 1500 SAT Score 1490 SAT Score 1480 SAT Score 1470 SAT Score 1460 SAT Score 1450 SAT Score 1440 SAT Score 1430 SAT Score 1420 SAT Score 1410 SAT Score 1400 SAT Score 1390 SAT Score 1380 SAT Score 1370 SAT Score 1360 SAT Score 1350 SAT Score 1340 SAT Score 1330 SAT Score 1320 SAT Score 1310 SAT Score 1300 SAT Score 1290 SAT Score 1280 SAT Score 1270 SAT Score 1260 SAT Score 1250 SAT Score 1240 SAT Score 1230 SAT Score 1220 SAT Score 1210 SAT Score 1200 SAT Score 1190 SAT Score 1180 SAT Score 1170 SAT Score 1110 SAT Score 1100 SAT Score 1090 SAT Score 1080 SAT Score 1070 SAT Score 1060 SAT Score 1050 SAT Score 1040 SAT Score 1030 SAT Score 1020 SAT Score 1010 SAT Score 1000 SAT Score 990 SAT Score 980 SAT Score 970 SAT Score 960 SAT Score 950 SAT Score 940 SAT Score 930 SAT Score 920 SAT Score 910 SAT Score 900 SAT Score 890 SAT Score 880 SAT Score 850 SAT Score 840 SAT Score 830 SAT Score 820 SAT Score 810 SAT Score
Acceptance Rate
Math Prep
English Prep
ACT
ACT Scores Guide
SAT Tips
ACT Tips
College Guide
Home / Testbook US / University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Admissions

UNC Chapel Hill Acceptance Rate, SAT, ACT & GPA

Last Updated on Feb 26, 2025
IMPORTANT LINKS
Boston University Admissions University of Florida Admissions University of Michigan Admissions University of Georgia Admissions Harvard University Admission University of Texas Admissions University of Maryland Admissions Cornell University Acceptance Rate Houston University Admissions Columbia University Admissions Duke University Admissions Stanford University Admissions University of Miami Admission University of Pennsylvania Admissions University of Virginia Admission Requirements New York University Admission Purdue University Admission Yale University Admissions University of Washington Chicago University Admissions

Getting into the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill) is a fantastic opportunity for students looking for academic excellence, a vibrant campus life, and access to top-tier research opportunities. With an acceptance rate of 19%, UNC-Chapel Hill is highly competitive, admitting only a fraction of its applicants. To stand out, students need strong academic credentials and well-rounded applications.

UNC Chapel Hill follows a holistic admissions approach, taking into account such factors as SAT Exam and ACT scores, GPA, extracurricular activities, leadership positions, and personal accomplishments. While UNC-Chapel Hill has a test-optional policy, students who submit SAT scores (1360–1520) or ACT Exam scores (30–34) may strengthen their applications. A GPA of 3.7 or higher is also crucial for a competitive application. 

🚀 Use Testbook’s SAT Score Calculator to Find Your SAT Scores! 

Did You Know These Fun Facts About UNC-Chapel Hill?

1️⃣ The First Public University in the U.S.! 🎓 UNC-Chapel Hill was the first public university to open and graduate students in the United States!
2️⃣ The Tar Heel Nickname Has a History! 🦶 The term "Tar Heel" dates back to North Carolina’s history in the naval industry, where workers got tar on their heels from working with pine tar.
3️⃣ Michael Jordan Started Here! 🏀 Basketball legend Michael Jordan played for UNC before becoming an NBA superstar.
4️⃣ A Secret Society Exists! 🤫 The Order of the Gimghoul, a secret society on campus, has been around for over 100 years.
5️⃣ Old Well Tradition! 💦 Students drink from the Old Well on the first day of classes for good luck in their studies.

🚀 Also, Get to Know How to Send SAT Scores to Colleges?

Element

Details

College Name

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

College Location

Chapel Hill, North Carolina

University Short Form

UNC-Chapel Hill

Acceptance Rate

19%

Early Decision Due

Not offered (UNC-Chapel Hill offers Early Action)

Early Action Due

October 15

Regular Application Due

January 15

FAFSA Deadline

March 1

SAT Scores

1360–1520*

ACT Scores

30–34*

📌 Know the SAT Test Dates and Deadlines: Check SAT Exam Calendar!

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Admission Statistics

UNC-Chapel Hill seeks students with excellent academics, leadership potential, and a desire to grow. SAT/ACT scores are not required, but high scores will help your application. In addition to academics, UNC appreciates community service, extracurricular activities, and leadership. To be noticed, emphasize your accomplishments, interests, and contributions—not your grades!

Requirement

Details

Application Platforms

Common Application, Coalition Application

SAT Score (Middle 50%)

1360–1520*

ACT Score (Middle 50%)

30–34*

GPA Requirement

Typically 3.7 or higher

Application Requirements

1–2 Letters of Recommendation, Personal Statement/Essay, Extracurricular Activities

Application Fee

$85

📌 Also Read – What’s The Highest Possible SAT Score?

What Makes a Competitive Applicant for UNC Chapel Hill Admissions?

If you’ve got a high SAT or ACT score and a strong GPA, you’re off to a great start for UNC-Chapel Hill! But getting in isn’t just about the numbers—UNC looks at the whole picture. They want students who take on leadership roles, get involved in extracurriculars, and show real passion for their interests. A strong personal statement and solid recommendation letters can also make a big difference in helping your application stand out!

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill SAT Scores Requirements

UNC-Chapel Hill takes a test-optional approach, but submitting a strong SAT score can help your chances. Most admitted students score between 1360 and 1520 on the SAT, so aiming for the higher end of this range can make your application more competitive.

Average UNC Chapel Hill SAT Scores for Admitted Students

If you're aiming for UNC-Chapel Hill, having a strong SAT score can definitely boost your chances! The average SAT score for UNC-Chapel Hill is 1430, with most admitted students scoring between 1360 and 1520. Here’s a breakdown of the SAT score ranges for admitted students:s:

Section

Average

25th Percentile

75th Percentile

Math

720

680

770

Reading + Writing

710

680

750

Composite

1430

1360

1520

📌 By Following the Steps Given Here, Complete Your SAT Exam Registration!

UNC-Chapel Hill SAT Score Distribution

Percentile

SAT Score

25th

1360

75th

1520

Students applying to highly competitive programs such as business, engineering, and sciences should aim for good SAT scores closer to 1520 to strengthen their application. If your SAT score is below 1360, you can compensate with a strong GPA, extracurriculars, and personal essays.

Attempt the SAT Practice Test to Improve your SAT Scores! 

Ace your SAT Preparation with 50+ Full Digital SAT-Like Tests, 3000+ Practice Questions, Topic-Level Notes, Desmos Calculator Integration, Personalized Dashboard and Custom Study-Planners.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Schools That Consider SAT Scores

Although UNC-Chapel Hill is test-optional, sending excellent SAT scores may complement your application, particularly to highly competitive programs. Certain colleges at the university place more significance on SAT scores as part of the admissions process, especially in fields that have heavy analytical or quantitative requirements. If you're applying to any of these schools, a high SAT score can help set you apart:

  • College of Arts & Sciences
  • Kenan-Flagler Business School
  • School of Education
  • Gillings School of Global Public Health
  • School of Information and Library Science
  • Eshelman School of Pharmacy
  • School of Media and Journalism

📌 Read about the SAT Eligibility!

Does UNC-Chapel Hill Superscore the SAT?

Yes! UNC-Chapel Hill superscores the SAT, which means they consider your highest section scores across multiple test attempts. This gives you the opportunity to showcase your best possible composite score by submitting your strongest Math and Reading & Writing section scores from different test dates.

📌 Find out How Long is the SAT?

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ACT Score Requirements

If you're applying to UNC-Chapel Hill, a strong ACT score between 30 and 34 will make you competitive. There’s no strict cutoff, but scoring closer to 34 will improve your chances. However, UNC looks beyond test scores, so a great GPA and extracurriculars are just as important!

Average UNC-Chapel Hill ACT Scores for Admitted Students

If you're aiming for UNC-Chapel Hill, having a strong ACT score can give your application an edge. The average ACT score for UNC-Chapel Hill is 32, with most admitted students scoring between 30 and 34. Here’s a breakdown of ACT scores for admitted students:

ACT Percentile

ACT Score Range

25th Percentile

30

50th Percentile (Median)

32

75th Percentile

34

📌 Attempt Free ACT Practice Test Here to Increase Your Scores!

Does UNC-Chapel Hill Superscore the ACT?

Yes! UNC-Chapel Hill superscores the ACT, meaning they consider your highest section scores across multiple test attempts. This allows you to submit your best possible composite score.

🚀 Checkout ACT to SAT Conversion Tool By Testbook!

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill GPA Requirement

Your GPA plays a huge role in UNC-Chapel Hill admissions. Most admitted students have a GPA between 3.7 and 4.0, showcasing strong academic performance.

UNC Chapel Hill Average GPA for Admitted Students

When it comes to getting into UNC-Chapel Hill, your GPA is a major factor in the admissions process. The UNC-Chapel Hill average GPA for admitted students is 3.90, meaning most students have mostly A’s on their transcripts. To be a strong applicant, you’ll want to aim for at least a 3.7 or higher, with competitive applicants typically having a 4.0+ GPA. Here’s a breakdown of GPAs for admitted students:

GPA Percentile

GPA Range

25th Percentile

3.7

50th Percentile (Median)

3.90

75th Percentile

4.0+

While UNC-Chapel Hill does not have a strict minimum GPA, most admitted students fall within the 3.7–4.0 range. Applicants with lower GPAs should have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays to improve their chances.

🚀Find out the Upcoming ACT Test Dates and Deadlines.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Acceptance Rate

UNC-Chapel Hill is a highly selective university with an acceptance rate of just 19%. This means that out of every 100 applicants, only 19 get admitted.

UNC Chapel Hill Acceptance Rate

Total Applicants

Admitted

Enrolled

19% (Highly Selective)

57,902

10,852

4,699

Since UNC-Chapel Hill is very competitive, students need a strong academic record and well-rounded application to increase their chances of admission.

🚀Get to Know the Recent Changes done in the SAT Exam!

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Scholarships

UNC-Chapel Hill offers various scholarships to support both in-state and out-of-state students. Some scholarships are merit-based, while others are awarded based on financial need.

Notable UNC-Chapel Hill Scholarships

  1. Morehead-Cain Scholarship – Covers full tuition, room, board, and summer experiences. 
  2. Robertson Scholars Leadership Program – Provides full tuition and leadership training.
  3. Carolina Covenant Program – Offers financial aid to low-income students.

Many scholarships are automatically awarded based on academic performance, while others require a separate application.

🚀Also, Get Familiar with Should You Guess on SAT & ACT? before appearing for SAT and ACT exams. 

Conclusion

UNC Chapel Hill is an upper-level college with a focus on scholarship, leadership, and extracurricular. Acceptance of just 19% means the high GPA (3.7 -- 4.0) and SAT (1360–1520) or ACT (30–34) score applicants are extraordinary. UNC's holistic admissions policy makes sure that well-rounded applicants with high personal accomplishments have a very good chance of admission!🎓

Colleges That Uses SAT Scores

Many prestigious colleges and universities in the U.S. require SAT scores as part of their admissions process. Below is a list of some of the top colleges and universities that use SAT scores for their admissions.

Check Colleges Accepting Low ACT Score

College Name

ACT Score

SAT Score

Texas Southern University

15–19*

820–980*

Tennessee State University

16–21*

890–1080*

Clark Atlanta University

17–20*

860–1053*

Keiser University

15–21*

Not available*

Barry University

16–20*

860–1062*

Colleges That Accept 1200 Score In SAT

University

ACT Score

SAT Score

Wayne State University Admissions

21–27*

940–1200*

Kean University Admissions

16–25*

910–1150*

Eastern Michigan University Admissions

18–26*

910–1150*

Lamar University Admissions

18–24*

910–1120*

Radford University Admissions

19–26*

950–1150*

Grand Valley State University Admissions

21–28*

950–1180*

Central Connecticut State University Admissions

16–27*

925–1140*

University Of Memphis Admissions

17–24*

930–1175*

Sam Houston State University Admissions

19–25*

950–1130*

Oakland University Admissions

20–27*

900–1150*

University Of North Florida Admissions

20–26*

1010–1200*

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Admissions FAQs

UNC-Chapel Hill has a highly selective acceptance rate of 19%, meaning only a small percentage of applicants are admitted each year.

The average SAT score for UNC-Chapel Hill is 1430, with most admitted students scoring between 1360 and 1520. Aiming for the higher end of this range can improve your chances of admission.

The average ACT score for UNC-Chapel Hill is 32, with most admitted students scoring between 30 and 34. A higher score will make your application more competitive.

While UNC-Chapel Hill does not have a strict minimum, most admitted students have a GPA between 3.7 and 4.0, with an average GPA of 3.90. A strong GPA is crucial for admission.

Yes! UNC-Chapel Hill superscores both the SAT and ACT, meaning they consider your highest section scores from multiple test attempts to give you the best possible composite score.

Early Action Deadline: October 15 Regular Decision Deadline: January 15 FAFSA Deadline: March 1

UNC-Chapel Hill has a holistic admissions process that considers SAT/ACT scores (if submitted), GPA, extracurricular activities, leadership roles, personal achievements, recommendation letters, and essays.

UNC-Chapel Hill offers several merit-based and need-based scholarships, including the Morehead-Cain Scholarship, Robertson Scholars Leadership Program, and Carolina Covenant Program. Some scholarships require separate applications, while others are awarded automatically based on academic performance.

No, UNC-Chapel Hill is test-optional, meaning students are not required to submit SAT scores. However, submitting a strong SAT score (1360–1520) can strengthen your application, especially for competitive programs.
Report An Error