Undergraduate Admissions

NC State University is a powerhouse in science, technology, engineering and math. We lead in agriculture, education, textiles, business and natural resources. We’re at the forefront of teaching and research in design, the humanities and the social sciences. And we’re home to one of the planet’s best colleges of veterinary medicine.

Our over 37,000 undergraduate and graduate students learn by doing. They pursue research and start new companies. They forge connections with top employers and serve local and global communities. And they enjoy an outstanding return on investment.

From the belly of a nuclear submarine to the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan, NC State has incorporated the experiences and service of its military veterans to the campus community, and its graduates are setting a standard for military leadership.

The university has produced more than 60 generals and flag officers, a figure that trails only service academies and institutions with corps of cadet programs among U.S. colleges and universities with notable alumni such as General Hugh Shelton, former chairman of the U.S. Armed Forces Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Raymond T. Odierno, 38th Chief of Staff of the United States Army; Commanding General, Multinational Force, Iraq; Commanding General Fort Hood and U.S. Army III Corps and Major General William C. Lee, first Commander of the 101st Airborne Division.

Applying Transfer versus New Student

96% of NC State’s undergraduate student veterans and 24% of military dependents entered NC State as a “transfer student.” Prospective undergraduate applicants who have seen a break in their education history (high school to college) or who have at least 24 credit hours of college-level coursework completed or in progress are strongly encouraged to apply as transfer students to maintain a more competitive edge in the application process.   

However, military dependents, members of the National Guard, Reserves, or active duty service members who have recently graduated high school and have completed placement exams such as SAT and ACT may still qualify for competitive standing when applying as a Freshman.

The information below will help you better understand the prerequisites requirements and application process for our undergraduate programs.  For more information on NC State’s admissions process, please visit our Undergraduate Admissions office.

First-Year Applicants

All military-connected students interested in applying as first-year new students will follow the general admission process and can access steps to apply by visiting the Undergraduate Admissions first-year application page.

Military service members who have seen a break in education (time between high school and college) are strongly encouraged to complete a Transfer Application, regardless of the number of credit hours completed.

Transfer Applicants

Find out what it takes to be competitive

All transfer applicants should have at least 24 transferable college credit hours completed or in progress, including specific coursework and a competitive GPA based on the major they are applying for.

Meeting these recommendations does not guarantee admission but sets you up to be considered a competitive applicant in the review process.

Find your major at NC State’s recommendations for competitive transfer applicants page for more information.

Plan your coursework

When you start at NC State, you can’t be stopped. With nearly 100 majors and 120 minors, you’ll find the path that’s right for you — and get a head start in your career. 

Begin to Think and Do by reviewing our various degrees, degree requirements, and additional information about the various academic programs we offer below.

See how your courses may transfer

Now that you know what program interests you, make the most of your time and cut down on your degree requirements by making sure the courses you take at another university or college apply towards your degree at NC State.

Search our extensive database to get an idea of the credits you may bring to NC State or make sure the classes you select will transfer. An official evaluation of your credits will be completed when you apply and submit your transcript.

Transfer Credit Database is a useful tool in figuring out which of your existing or proposed credits transfer to NC State.

College Credit for Military Service

NC State University is cognizant of the needs of its military and veteran students returning to higher education.

The university is committed to providing a welcoming environment and has established mechanisms to ensure a seamless and successful transition to the university.  To further this goal, the university has defined a set of academic credits that may be awarded to members of the military as well as honorably discharged veterans for specific military training or course work.  These academic credits are intended to avoid duplicating effort and further members of the military and veterans toward their degree intentions.

Click here for procedures on requesting military credit.

NC Community College Pathway Degree Plans

Don’t quite meet admission requirements? Check out our North Carolina Community College Pathway Plans.

Military-connected students attending North Carolina Community Colleges can use the following Baccalaureate Degree Plans to identify NC Community College courses that provide pathways leading to associate degree completion and admission into an NC State major and baccalaureate program. 

The North Carolina Comprehensive Articulation Agreement (CAA) Baccalaureate Degree Plans can assist military-connected students at the 58 NC Community Colleges prepare to transfer to NC State. The community college courses identified were selected for inclusion because they both fulfill requirements for an associate degree and transfer to NC State for credit towards a baccalaureate degree.

C3  seeks students who demonstrate potential for academic success through previous high school or community college performance and exhibit a high level of motivation and perseverance in the face of challenges (as may be evidenced by their ability to overcome obstacles; manage family, work, and/or military responsibilities; and/or showcase their entrepreneurial spirit).

NC State values your success as a student, and C3 pairs your path to an NC State degree with academic and social support to enhance your experience.

C3 is open to students immediately after completing high school or for community college students who have completed less than 30 credit hours of college work. C3 students will be assigned an NC State advisor upon admission to the program. The advisor will help students identify majors that are aligned with their interests and academic abilities, map a comprehensive course plan, and ensure that courses taken at the community college will transfer to the student’s intended major. Students will also receive financial aid advising to maximize aid eligibility, GI Bill benefits, and minimize student debt.

C3 is open to students considering any major that NC State offers. Military veterans, first-generation students, and students from rural communities are encouraged to apply.