About

University Type

Public

University Type

US News National rank

196

US News National rank

Average Living Expenses

$41,462

Average Living Expenses

The University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW) is a public research university in Wilmington, North Carolina. It is part of the University of North Carolina System and enrols nearly 18,000 undergraduate and graduate students each year. It is classified among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity".

What is the acceptance rate at the University of North Carolina Wilmington?

University of North Carolina at Wilmington has an acceptance rate of 68% and a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1.

The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a comprehensive university offering 100+ degrees. The university is home to six colleges: Arts and Sciences, Business, Education, Health and Human Services, Marine Science, and Professional Studies. The average annual tuition fee for international undergraduates at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington is $42,603 and $43,184 for international graduate degree seekers.

UNCW also has some research centres and institutes, including the Center for Marine Science, the Center for Coastal Studies, and the UNCW Institute for Emerging Issues. The campus is home to varied academic buildings, residence halls, athletic facilities, and cultural centres. The University of North Carolina at Wilmington's ranking in the 2022-2023 edition of Best Colleges is #202 among National Universities.

Top Reasons to Study in the University of North Carolina Wilmington

  • ACADEMICALLY REPUTED: University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a nationally recognized public university, ranked #96 in the U.S. News & World Report's Best National Universities ranking and #26 in the Best Online Bachelor's Programs ranking.
  • ATHLETICS: University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a member of the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA), and the university's athletic teams are known as the Seahawks. The Seahawks compete in 19 varsity sports, including men's and women's basketball, football, and baseball.
  • RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES: The University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a research-intensive university with some active research centres and institutes, allowing students to participate in cutting-edge research projects under the guidance of world-renowned faculty.
  • DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY: the University of North Carolina at Wilmington is a diverse and inclusive community with students from everywhere, creating a vibrant and stimulating learning environment where students can learn from and grow with people from different backgrounds.
  • COASTAL LOCATION: University of North Carolina at Wilmington is located in Wilmington, North Carolina, a beautiful coastal city with a thriving arts and culture scene. The university is just a short walk from the beach, which provides students with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Courses

Cost of Studying at University of North Carolina Wilmington

Average tuition fee

Reasonable

Get Full Coverage at 0 Cost

Just fill in your preferences and reach the best loan offer with Loan Finder

5000+ Students

Availed education loan

3000+ Cr

Loan amount approved

100% Free

Assistance for loan


Living expenses

Average living expenses (Bachelors)

$40,999

Average living expenses (Masters)

$41,462

Admissions at The University of North Carolina Wilmington

Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)

68%

Application Fee

$75 - $80


How to Apply at University of North Carolina Wilmington

UNDERGRADUATE

Here are the steps on how to apply to the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW) for undergraduate studies as an international applicant:

  • Visit the UNCW admissions website and click on the "Apply" tab.
  • Choose the "UNCW Application" option: This is the application specifically for international applicants.
  • Complete the online application: Be sure to answer all of the questions and provide all of the required documents.
  • Submit your application fee of $80.
  • Submit your official high school transcript, translated into English and certified by an authorized translator.
  • Submit your English Language Proficiency test scores
  • Submit an essay or short answer: It should be about 500 words and discuss your academic goals, and extracurricular activities.
  • Submit your financial documents: If you are applying for financial aid, you will need to submit documents that show your financial resources.

POSTGRADUATE

Here are the steps on how to apply to the University of North Carolina at Wilmington for graduate studies as an international applicant:

  • Visit the UNCW Graduate School website and select the program you are interested in.
  • Review the program's admission requirements, which can be found on the program's website.
  • Submit the online application: The application fee is 80 USD.
  • Submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended, translated into English if they are not originally in English.
  • Submit two letters of recommendation.
  • Submit a statement of purpose: This is your opportunity to explain your interest in the program and why you are a good fit.
  • Submit your English language proficiency test scores: The minimum score requirement varies by program.
  • Submit your financial documents: If you are applying for financial aid, you will need to submit documents that show your financial resources.
  • Submit your application by the deadline.

MASTER'S AND PhD

Here are the steps on how to apply to the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW) for a master's or PhD as an international applicant:

  • Check the eligibility requirements: Make sure that you meet the eligibility requirements for admission to UNCW's graduate program. These requirements vary by program, so be sure to check the specific program's website.

Gather your application materials: You will need to submit the following application materials:

  • Completed online application form.
  • Non-refundable application fee (80 USD).
  • Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
  • Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, etc.)
  • Two letters of recommendation.
  • Personal statement.
  • Resume or curriculum vitae.
  • Submit your application.
  • Track your application status: You can track your application status online through UNCW's admissions portal.

Documents Required to Apply to University of North Carolina Wilmington

UNDERGRADUATE

Documents needed to apply to the University of North Carolina at Wilmington for undergraduate studies as an international applicant:

  • Completed online application.
  • Application fee of $80.
  • Your official high school transcript.
  • English Language Proficiency test scores.
  • An essay or short answer.
  • Financial documents.

Additional:

  • Resume or CV.
  • Research proposal.
  • Work samples.

POSTGRADUATE

Documents needed to apply to the University of North Carolina at Wilmington for undergraduate studies as an international applicant:

  • Completed online application.
  • Application fee of $80.
  • Your official high school transcript.
  • English Language Proficiency test scores.
  • An essay or short answer.
  • Financial documents.

Additional:

  • Resume or CV.
  • Research proposal.
  • Work samples.

MASTER'S AND PhD

Documents needed to apply to the University of North Carolina at Wilmington for a master's or PhD as an international applicant:

  • Completed online application.
  • Application fee of $80.
  • Your official high school transcript.
  • English Language Proficiency test scores.
  • An essay or short answer.
  • Financial documents.

Additional:

  • Resume or CV.
  • Research proposal.
  • Work samples.

Exams Accepted By University of North Carolina Wilmington

Following are the English language proficiency tests scores accepted by the University of Carolina at Wilmington:

  • TOEFL iBT - 71
  • IELTS - 6.0 on the academic module.
  • DET - 95
  • PTE - 54
  • iTEP Academic - 3.7

college finder

College Finder

Know universities that fit you best!

Take us through your profile, study preferences, strengths, and weaknesses and we’d find you universities that are tailor made for you, instantly!

Rankings for The University of North Carolina Wilmington

US News Ranking

#196

US News National rank

The World University Rankings

#1201 - 1500

The World University Rankings


More rankings for this university

View More Rankings

Students University of North Carolina Wilmington

19

Yocketers applied

12

Yocketers admitted

453

Yocketers interested


Premium Yocketer profiles

Yashaswi Diwakar Sinha

Yashaswi Diwakar Sinha

Shortlisted

Business Analytics

Fall 2025

Arnab Halder

Arnab Halder

Shortlisted

Data Science

Fall 2024

Onkar Ra

Onkar Ra

Shortlisted

Data Science

Fall 2023

Gokkul Eraivan Arutkani Aiyanathan

Gokkul Eraivan Arutkani Aiyanathan

Shortlisted

Data Science

Fall 2023


Alumni at University of North Carolina Wilmington

  • Devontae Cacok is a professional basketball player who currently plays for the Los Angeles Lakers.
  • Martha Cheney is a former North Carolina state senator who represented the 13th district from 2009 to 2017.
  • Skeet Ulrich is an American actor who is best known for his roles in popular 1990s films, including "Scream," "The Craft," and "As Good as It Gets."
  • Jill A. Mikucki is an American microbiologist, educator and Antarctic researcher.
  • Brandon Beane is the general manager of the Buffalo Bills.

Yocket’s Counsel

Meet Our Counsellors

We got a team of 50+ experienced counsellors ready to help you!

Related Discussion for the Universities

Ask, post and discuss!

Have a question? Ask and discuss with your fellow aspirants!

Pranathi Reddy Jaggari
Pranathi Reddy Jaggari

2 years ago

I’ve got admit in UNCW (cs in ms). Will they allow tranfer to other university?
Will the university allow tranfer before or after the semester!?
LikeCount Like
CommentButton 1 Comment
CHATRADI LAKSHMAN
CHATRADI LAKSHMAN

2 years ago

Hi Is any one admitted for UNCW for fall 2023 bachelors ?
LikeCount Like
CommentButton Comment
Chidananda Nayak
Chidananda Nayak

6 years ago

Any group for data science at uncw( University of North Carolina at Wilmington) please do reach out.
Any group for data science at uncw( University of North Carolina at Wilmington) please do reach out. thanks
LikeCount Like
CommentButton Comment
Satish N
Satish N

7 years ago

Hi, I want to pursue my career into bussiness anlayst. Can I apply for MSCSIS program in UNCW Is th
Hi,
I want to pursue my career into bussiness anlayst. Can I apply for MSCSIS program in UNCW Is that relevant to MIS program? Thanks in advance
LikeCount Like
CommentButton 1 Comment

Reviews for University of North Carolina Wilmington

Campus life

Number of campuses the university has
1

Campus locations
North Carolina

View on Google Earth


Transportation in the city

Wilmington, North Carolina has varied transportation options available to its residents and visitors, including:

  • Public transportation: Wave Transit is the city's public transportation system, offering bus, shuttle, and trolley services. Buses run throughout the city, while shuttles provide service to some of the more popular destinations, such as the airport and the beaches. The trolley is a free service that makes stops throughout downtown.
  • Taxis: Several taxi companies are operating in Wilmington, which can be hailed on the street or called for pickup.
  • Ride-hailing services: Uber and Lyft are two popular ride-hailing services that operate in Wilmington, allowing you to request a ride from your smartphone and be picked up within minutes.

Services offered by the university

The University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW) offers ranging services to its students, including:

  • Academic advising: University of North Carolina at Wilmington's academic advising office provides students with personalized help in choosing courses, planning their degree programs, and transitioning to college.
  • Career counselling: University of North Carolina at Wilmington's career counselling office helps students develop their career goals, find internships and jobs, and prepare for interviews.
  • Financial aid: University of North Carolina at Wilmington's financial aid office helps students apply for financial aid, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study.
  • Health services: UNCW's health services office provides students with medical, dental, and mental health care.
  • Technology services: UNCW's technology services office provides students with access to computers, printers, software, and the internet.

Student life at University of North Carolina Wilmington

  • Join a student organization: There are 300+ student organizations on campus, so you are sure to find one that interests you. From sports teams to academic clubs to fraternities and sororities, there is something for everyone.
  • Attend sporting events: UNCW is a member of the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA), so you can cheer on the Seahawks in basketball, football, baseball, softball, and more.
  • Explore Wilmington: Wilmington is a beautiful city with a lot to offer students. There are plenty of beaches, restaurants, and bars within walking distance of campus. And if you are looking for something to do on the weekends, there are always concerts, festivals, and sporting events happening in the area.
  • Go to the beach: UNCW is located just a few miles from the beach, so you can easily take a day trip to the sand and surf.

On campus accomodation at University of North Carolina Wilmington

The University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW) offers varied on-campus housing options for students of all years, including:

  • Traditional residence halls offer varied room types, including single rooms, double rooms, and triple. Some halls also have suite-style accommodations, which offer private bathrooms for each resident. All residence halls have common areas where students can study, relax, and socialize.
  • Apartment-Style Housing: University of North Carolina at Wilmington offers apartment-style housing for upperclassmen, with fully furnished kitchens and living rooms, and also some private bedrooms. Apartment-style housing is located in two separate complexes: Student Village and The Pointe.
  • Living Learning Communities: the University of North Carolina at Wilmington offers students housing with shared interests, offering a unique opportunity for students to live and learn together with others who share their passions.

Read More

Faculty Information

Jobs and Opportunities

FAQ

1. What is something interesting about the UNCW?
UNCW is recognized as a military-friendly university. It works closely with some military bases to offer programs designed for military personnel and their families.

2. What is the most popular major at UNC Wilmington?
Some of the most popular majors at UNCW are biology, education, nursing, business administration, and psychology.

3. What is the minimum GPA score needed for admission to UNCW?
To get admission into UNCW, students generally need a GPA score of at least 4.18.

4. What is the tuition fee at University of North Carolina at Wilmington?
For international students, the tuition fee is around USD 21,246 (INR 16.56 Lakh). 

5. What is the living cost at University of North Carolina at Wilmington?
For both housing and dining, the total costs of living at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington can be around USD 100,000 (INR 77.95 Lakh).