This guide ranks 5 colleges in North Carolina by graduate salary outcomes, acceptance rate, and net cost of attendance — using public US Department of Education College Scorecard and IPEDS data.

What is the hardest college to get into in North Carolina?

Duke University has the lowest acceptance rate among North Carolina colleges on this list at 6.8%. Reach for it only if your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars are well above the school's median.

Which North Carolina college has the highest graduate salary?

Duke University graduates earn the highest median 10-year salary among North Carolina colleges on this list, at $97,800. Major choice impacts earnings far more than school choice — pick based on intended career, not just school median.

Should I stay in North Carolina for college?

In-state public colleges in North Carolina typically charge significantly less tuition than out-of-state students pay, so staying in-state can cut costs dramatically. Private colleges in North Carolina charge the same regardless of state residency. Compare net cost (not sticker) for your family income to decide.

Data source: IPEDS, College Scorecard.

Top Colleges in North Carolina

FAQs about colleges in North Carolina

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