North Carolina State University at Raleigh
North Carolina State University at Raleigh is a public university in Raleigh, NC ranked #83 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of A, enrolling about 27,371 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 41.7%. Students most often pursue Computer Science and Computer Engineering.
Academically, students benefit from a 15:1 student-faculty ratio, 94.5% first-year retention, and 84.8% six-year graduation. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
Families typically invest $17,303, about $305 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -16.7%, roughly 102.0 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $57,623. That's about $13,935 higher than national results. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
North Carolina State University at Raleigh has an acceptance rate of 41.7%, annual tuition of $8,799, average net price of $17,303, and a national rank of #83 (Grade A), with a 84.8% six-year graduation rate, about 27,371 undergraduates, and median earnings of $57,623 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Who is North Carolina State University at Raleigh Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
North Carolina State University at Raleigh graduates 84.8% of students within six years and keeps 94.5% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B- compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use North Carolina State University at Raleigh's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $8,799 |
| Books and Supplies | $876 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $14,332 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $3,230 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $26,425 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 19.6% of North Carolina State University at Raleigh students receive Pell Grants — below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $6,382 to $24,652 depending on family income. Use North Carolina State University at Raleigh's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $20,087/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $24,652/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $57,623
- 10-Year Median Earnings $57,623
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $17,320
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 75.4%
- Employment Rate 88.0%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for North Carolina State University at Raleigh graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
North Carolina State University at Raleigh vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how North Carolina State University at Raleigh's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes North Carolina State University at Raleigh's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While North Carolina State University at Raleigh graduates earn $57,623 median, the -16.7% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading 650-720
- SAT Math 650-750
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 28-32
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 27,371
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 94.5%
- Graduation Rate 84.8%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 15:1
How to Get Into North Carolina State University at Raleigh
1. Meet Academic Requirements: North Carolina State University at Raleigh requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 41.7%, North Carolina State University at Raleigh is moderately selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: North Carolina State University at Raleigh accepts 41.7% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Focus on strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays to stand out. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1300 and 1470 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among North Carolina State University at Raleigh undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Biology, General, and Mechanical Engineering draw the most students.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 11.1%
- Biology, General 5.6%
- Mechanical Engineering 4.8%
- Computer Science 3.9%
- Psychology, General 3.9%
- Animal Sciences 3.6%
See more majors
- Textile Sciences and Engineering 3.6%
- Communication and Media Studies 3.3%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Computer Science $111,385
- 2. Computer Engineering $110,896
- 3. Chemical Engineering $103,529
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Biomedical/Medical Engineering $99,115
- 5. Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering $97,818
- 6. Industrial Engineering $96,510
- 7. Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering $94,192
- 8. Mechanical Engineering $91,136
- 9. Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology $85,665
- 10. Agricultural Engineering $85,625
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Computer Software and Media Applications (Master's Degree) $143,908
- 2. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Post-Baccalaureate Certificate) $127,912
- 3. Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degree) $118,602
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Marketing (Post-Baccalaureate Certificate) $117,557
- 5. Veterinary Medicine (First Professional Degree) $117,254
- 6. Engineering, General (Master's Degree) $114,929
- 7. Chemical Engineering (Master's Degree) $114,524
- 8. Computer Engineering (Master's Degree) $114,188
- 9. Civil Engineering (Master's Degree) $113,353
- 10. Mechanical Engineering (Master's Degree) $111,987
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer Science grads earn $111,385—30% more than Agricultural Engineering ($85,625). Graduate: Computer Software and Media Applications programs lead with $143,908 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for North Carolina State University at Raleigh. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 665 graduates)
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 336 graduates)
- Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor's Degree, 288 graduates)
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 234 graduates)
- Computer Science (Bachelor's Degree, 232 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (71 programs)â–¼
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Biology, General
- Mechanical Engineering
- Psychology, General
- Computer Science
- Animal Sciences
- Textile Sciences and Engineering
- Communication and Media Studies
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Accounting and Related Services
- Political Science and Government
- Computer Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Agricultural Business and Management
- Business/Managerial Economics
- English Language and Literature, General
- Nutrition Sciences
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Industrial Engineering
- International/Global Studies
- History
- Forestry
- Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
- Design and Applied Arts
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Social Work
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Science, Technology and Society
- Statistics
- Mathematics
- Zoology/Animal Biology
- Plant Sciences
- Engineering, General
- Agricultural Engineering
- Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Materials Engineering
- Criminology
- Sociology
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Botany/Plant Biology
- Applied Mathematics
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering
- Environmental Design
- Architecture
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Genetics
- Anthropology
- Environmental Control Technologies/Technicians
- Science Technologies/Technicians, Other
- Nuclear Engineering
- Education, General
- Atmospheric Sciences and Meteorology
- Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management
- Food Science and Technology
- Agricultural Mechanization
- Philosophy
- Construction Engineering
- Natural Resources Management and Policy
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Agricultural Public Services
- Applied Horticulture and Horticultural Business Services
- Agricultural Production Operations
Online Master's Degrees (40 programs)â–¼
- Computer Software and Media Applications
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Social Work
- Applied Mathematics
- Architectural Sciences and Technology
- Public Administration
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- English Language and Literature, General
- History
- Biotechnology
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Physics
- Economics
- Design and Applied Arts
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
- Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
- Food Science and Technology
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Zoology/Animal Biology
- Sociology
- Psychology, General
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Botany/Plant Biology
- Physical Sciences, Other
- Natural Resources Management and Policy
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Anthropology
- Mathematics
- Veterinary Biomedical and Clinical Sciences
- Special Education and Teaching
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Genetics
- Chemistry
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Agricultural Business and Management
Online Doctoral Degrees (51 programs)â–¼
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Textile Sciences and Engineering
- Computer Science
- Statistics
- Nuclear Engineering
- Psychology, General
- Mechanical Engineering
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Materials Engineering
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Industrial Engineering
- Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Veterinary Biomedical and Clinical Sciences
- Plant Sciences
- Applied Mathematics
- Zoology/Animal Biology
- Mathematics
- Economics
- Biomedical/Medical Engineering
- Sociology
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Forestry
- Computer Engineering
- Botany/Plant Biology
- Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
- Education, Other
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Public Administration
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Genetics
- Operations Research
- Animal Sciences
- Environmental Design
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Agricultural Engineering
- Physical Sciences, Other
- Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management
- Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology
- Soil Sciences
- Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Nutrition Sciences
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Food Science and Technology
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Agricultural Public Services
- Systems Science and Theory
- History
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (16 programs)â–¼
- Marketing
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Parks, Recreation and Leisure Facilities Management
- Architecture
- Environmental Design
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Public Health
- Natural Resources Management and Policy
- International Relations and National Security Studies
- Special Education and Teaching
- Engineering, Other
- Materials Engineering
- Biology, General
- Accounting and Related Services
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Homeland Security
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (15 programs)â–¼
- Computer Engineering
- Plant Sciences
- Biotechnology
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Microbiological Sciences and Immunology
- Soil Sciences
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Environmental Control Technologies/Technicians
- Animal Sciences
- Agricultural Business and Management
- Botany/Plant Biology
- Zoology/Animal Biology
- Food Science and Technology
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Agriculture, Agriculture Operations, and Related Sciences, Other
Online First Professional Degrees (1 program)â–¼
- Veterinary Medicine
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 27,371
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 50.1%
- Female Students 49.9%
- Caucasian 66.1%
- Asian 9.8%
- Hispanic 9.4%
- Black 5.9%
- Pell Grant Recipients 19.6%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects North Carolina State University at Raleigh's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of North Carolina State University at Raleigh's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does North Carolina State University at Raleigh support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at North Carolina State University at Raleigh, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: About 19.6% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does North Carolina State University at Raleigh support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at North Carolina State University at Raleigh, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Ranking #83 nationally, North Carolina State University at Raleigh combines competitive admissions with -16.7% ROI, positioning itself among America's stronger universities. The institution balances academic rigor with $57,623 in median post-graduation earnings.
Students complete degrees at 84.8% six-year rates, with 94.5% retention reflecting solid satisfaction. The $17,303 annual net price falls in the moderate range, though 320 institutions deliver comparable outcomes at lower costs.
Competitive Selective University: North Carolina State University at Raleigh's Market Position
A grade | #83 of 6101 | 95.8/100 on EDsmart's national index (0–100 vs. all ranked schools; not a raw point total)
Competitive Positioning: North Carolina State University at Raleigh occupies the competitive selective tier—not elite enough for automatic career advantages, but strong enough to provide quality education and reasonable outcomes. The -16.7% ROI reflects this middle ground: better than most, but not top-tier.
Value for Money: $17,303 annually produces $57,623 median earnings—a reasonable but not exceptional return. Students choosing North Carolina State University at Raleigh should evaluate whether the institution's specific programs, location, or campus culture justify costs versus higher-ROI alternatives.
Who Succeeds Here: Self-directed students who maximize campus resources (research, internships, networking) achieve outcomes rivaling higher-ranked schools. Students seeking specific programs or geographic locations find strong value. Those needing extensive hand-holding may struggle in larger university environments.
Final Assessment: North Carolina State University at Raleigh's #83 ranking and A grade reflect solid performance across metrics. With 320 schools offering better ROI, value-focused students should compare carefully. However, for students who fit the institution's culture and programs, outcomes justify investment.
Key Takeaways
- 84.8% six-year graduation rate sits 22.3 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 94.5% first-year retention is 17.7 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- -16.7% return on investment is 102.0 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $57,623 run about 32% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $17,303 is roughly $94 lower than the national median of $17,397.
Helpfulness for Students
- 15:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 94.5% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 88.0% employment rate within three years sits 19.8 points above national outcomes.
- Pell participation at 19.6% trails the national share by 19.5 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
North Carolina State University at Raleigh is a public university based in Raleigh, NC and earns a A overall grade. It appears at #83 in EDsmart's national list Completion earns A, Support B+, Career Outcomes A-, and Affordability B-.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
94.5% of learners come back after year one while 84.8% complete the degree within six years. EDsmart calculates the ROI at -16.7%, offering a quick value checkpoint.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $17,303 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $26,425.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $9,122 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $17,320 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 19.6% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Graduates report median earnings of about $57,623 six years after entry. Compared with the national median, that's 32% higher.
Roughly 88.0% of graduates are employed three years out.
EDsmart lists the ROI at -16.7%, offering a quick read on value.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
41.7% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the North Carolina State University at Raleigh admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is North Carolina State University at Raleigh's acceptance rate?
North Carolina State University at Raleigh's acceptance rate is 41.7%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does North Carolina State University at Raleigh cost?
At North Carolina State University at Raleigh, listed tuition and fees are $8,799 per year, and the average net price after aid is $17,303. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is North Carolina State University at Raleigh's ranking?
North Carolina State University at Raleigh ranks #83 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of A, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is North Carolina State University at Raleigh's graduation rate?
At North Carolina State University at Raleigh, the six-year graduation rate is 84.8%, and first-year retention is 94.5%.
What are North Carolina State University at Raleigh's job outcomes?
Graduates of North Carolina State University at Raleigh report median earnings of $57,623 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is North Carolina State University at Raleigh's student population?
North Carolina State University at Raleigh enrolls about 27,371 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Raleigh, NC 27695-7001
- Website www.ncsu.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$2.03B
- Transfer Enrollment Rate9.5%