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High Point University

High Point, NC | Private Nonprofit | University

High Point University is a private nonprofit university in High Point, NC ranked #1533 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of C+, enrolling about 5,129 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 75.3%. Students most often pursue Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions.

Academically, students benefit from a 21:1 student-faculty ratio, 85.4% first-year retention, and 73.7% six-year graduation. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.

Families typically invest $38,707, about $21,709 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -67.1%, roughly 152.4 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $50,955. That's about $7,267 higher than national results. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.

C+
Ranking
#1533 of 6,101
How We Rank Schools

High Point University has an acceptance rate of 75.3%, annual tuition of $45,312, average net price of $38,707, and a national rank of #1533 (Grade C+), with a 73.7% six-year graduation rate, about 5,129 undergraduates, and median earnings of $50,955 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.

At a Glance
Ranking
#1533 of 6,101 (Top 25.1%)
Tuition
$45,312
Net Price
$38,707
4-Year Tuition
$181,248
Acceptance Rate
75.3%
Transfer Rate
0.0%
Student Population
5,129
Student-Faculty
21:1
Graduation Rate
73.7%
Retention Rate
85.4%
6-Yr Earnings
$50,955
ROI
-67.1%

Who is High Point University Best For?

A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.

Students valuing supportive learning environments

EDsmart Scores Summary

Overall Ranking
#1533 of 6,101
Top 25.1% of all institutions
EDsmart Score
21.1 / 100 (national index)
Curved score (top institution = 100.0)
Value Rating
1.06 / 5
Based on ROI and outcomes
Completion
A-
#299 of 6,101
Affordability
D+
#1,878 of 6,101
Support
B-
#1,249 of 6,101
Career Outcomes
B-
#1,187 of 6,101

High Point University graduates 73.7% of students within six years and keeps 85.4% of first-year students. Affordability earns a D+ compared with similar schools.

How we calculate this →

Cost & Financial Aid

Quick Answers

What does it cost?
Depends on income
$32,763-$41,994 annual net price based on family income.
What's the graduation rate?
Likely
73.7% finish within six years. 65.8% complete in four years.
What are job outcomes?
Likely
71.5% of alumni are employed within three years of leaving. Median earnings six years after entry are $50,955. Pay varies by major.
Get Your Personalized Cost Estimate

The costs shown are averages. Use High Point University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.

Calculate Your Net Price →

Total Degree Cost Summary

4-Year Total Cost (Pay with Cash)
$262,192
$65,548 × 4 years
Average Total Cost (Pay with Financial Aid)
$174,182
$38,707 × 4.5 years average
Time to Degree
Average: 4.5 years | 4-Year Rate: 65.8% | 6-Year Rate: 73.7%
Most students finish in about four to five years. Four-year completion is 65.8% and six-year completion is 73.7%.

Annual Cost Comparison

Pay with Cash
$65,548
Total annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses; excluding any financial aid, grants or scholarships.
Pay with Financial Aid
$38,707
Average annual cost including tuition, books and living expenses after financial aid, grants or scholarships.

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 $45,312
Books and Supplies $1,500
On-Campus Room and Board $18,924
On-Campus Other Expenses $2,250
Total On-Campus Cost $65,548

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

Pell Grant
11.8%
Federal Loan
0.0%

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 11.8% of High Point University 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.

$0 - $30,000
$32,763
Average annual cost for families earning $0-$30K
$30,001 - $48,000
$31,937
Average annual cost for families earning $30K-$48K
$48,001 - $75,000
$32,461
Average annual cost for families earning $48K-$75K
$75,001 - $110,000
$35,508
Average annual cost for families earning $75K-$110K
$110,001+
$41,994
Average annual cost for families earning $110K+

Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $32,763 to $41,994 depending on family income. Use High Point University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.

4-Year Total Cost Estimates:
$0-$30K families
~$147,434
$30K-$48K families
~$143,716
$48K-$75K families
~$146,074
$75K-$110K families
~$159,786
AFFORDABILITY ALERT

If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $35,508/year

If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $41,994/year

See all income brackets →

ROI & Career Outcomes

Return on Investment
-67.1%
Based on 6-year median earnings vs. total degree cost
  • 6-Year Median Earnings $50,955
  • 10-Year Median Earnings $50,955
  • Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
  • Average Student Debt $19,000
  • Repayment Rate (3yr) 70.4%
  • Employment Rate 71.5%

Graduate Earnings Distribution

Earnings range for High Point University 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.

Graduates earn a median of $50,955 six years after enrollment — roughly 17% above the national median.
Payback Period
3.42 years
Total Degree Cost ÷ Annual Earnings

High Point University vs. National Average

Comparison of key performance metrics showing how High Point University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes High Point University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.

EDsmart Insight: While High Point University graduates earn $50,955 median, the -67.1% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.

Acceptance & Selectivity

Getting In

Acceptance Rate
75.3%
Lightly Selective
National Average
69%
Average acceptance rate
  • SAT Evidence-Based Reading 560-670
  • SAT Math 550-650
  • SAT Writing Not reported
  • ACT Composite 24-33
  • SAT & ACT Required
  • Undergraduate Enrollment 5,129
  • Full-Time Students 95.0%
  • Part-Time Students 5.0%
  • Retention Rate 85.4%
  • Graduation Rate 73.7%
  • Student-Faculty Ratio 21:1

How to Get Into High Point University

1. Meet Academic Requirements: High Point University 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 75.3%, High Point University is relatively open. 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: With a 75.3% acceptance rate, High Point University is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1110 and 1320 on the SAT.

Academic Programs

Undergraduate Program Distribution

Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among High Point University undergraduates. Communication and Media Studies, Business Administration, Management and Operations, and Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitnes draw the most students.

  • Communication and Media Studies 16.5%
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations 14.5%
  • Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitnes 6.7%
  • Biology, General 5.0%
  • Psychology, General 4.9%
  • Criminal Justice and Corrections 4.2%
See more majors
  • Marketing 4.2%
  • Design and Applied Arts 3.8%

Highest Earning Programs

Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.

Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)

  • 1. Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degree) $113,352

Program Choice Matters: Graduate: Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions programs lead with $113,352 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.

Online Degrees & Distance Learning

College Scorecard reports fully online programs for High Point University. 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

  • Communication and Media Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 171 graduates)
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 151 graduates)
  • Health and Physical Education/Fitness (Bachelor's Degree, 70 graduates)
  • Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (First Professional Degree, 57 graduates)
  • Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration (First Professional Degree, 53 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 (49 programs)
  • Communication and Media Studies
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations
  • Health and Physical Education/Fitness
  • Biology, General
  • Psychology, General
  • Marketing
  • Criminal Justice and Corrections
  • Design and Applied Arts
  • Political Science and Government
  • Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
  • Accounting and Related Services
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Human Resources Management and Services
  • General Sales, Merchandising and Related Marketing Operations
  • International Business
  • Computer Science
  • Finance and Financial Management Services
  • Hospitality Administration/Management
  • Special Education and Teaching
  • Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education
  • International Relations and National Security Studies
  • History
  • Physics
  • Neurobiology and Neurosciences
  • Fine and Studio Arts
  • Mathematics
  • English Language and Literature, General
  • Economics
  • Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
  • Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
  • Music
  • Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
  • Philosophy
  • Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft
  • Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
  • Sociology and Anthropology
  • Chemistry
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
  • Religion/Religious Studies
  • Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
  • Radio, Television, and Digital Communication
  • Film/Video and Photographic Arts
  • Statistics
  • Specialized Sales, Merchandising and Marketing Operations
  • Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication
  • Journalism
  • Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
  • Dance
  • Computer Engineering
Online Master's Degrees (8 programs)
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations
  • Educational Administration and Supervision
  • Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
  • Communication and Media Studies
  • Special Education and Teaching
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
  • Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs, Other
Online Doctoral Degrees (1 program)
  • Educational Administration and Supervision
Online First Professional Degrees (2 programs)
  • Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
  • Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, and Administration

Student Demographics

Student Population

  • Total Undergraduate Enrollment 5,129
  • Full-Time Students 95.0%
  • Part-Time Students 5.0%
  • Male Students 44.5%
  • Female Students 55.5%
  • Caucasian 74.3%
  • Asian 2.1%
  • Hispanic 8.7%
  • Black 8.2%
  • Pell Grant Recipients 11.8%

Racial & Ethnic Diversity

Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects High Point University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.

Gender Distribution

Gender breakdown of High Point University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.

Graduation Rate Equity Analysis

How well does High Point University support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
68.0%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
74.6%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
6.6 pts
good equity

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 High Point University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

EDsmart Insight: The student body is 74.3% White, reflecting less racial diversity than the national average. About 11.8% 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 High Point University support students from different economic backgrounds?

Pell Grant Recipients
68.0%
6-year graduation rate
Non-Pell Students
74.6%
6-year graduation rate
Equity Gap
6.6 pts
good equity

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 High Point University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.

Our Take

High Point University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -67.1% ROI. Ranked #1533 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.

The $38,707 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $50,955 median earnings. With 73.7% graduating within six years and 85.4% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.

Private University Value: High Point University's Positioning

With a C+ grade and #1533 ranking, High Point University competes in the crowded regional private university market.

The Private University Premium: At $38,707 annually, High Point University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 85.4% retention rate suggests students value this environment.

Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $27,095 achieve particularly strong value.

Cost-Benefit Reality: The -67.1% ROI and $50,955 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $28,707+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.

Competitive Standing: High Point University ranks #1533 of 6101 institutions, with 1531 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.

Key Takeaways

  • 73.7% six-year graduation rate sits 11.2 points above the national 62.5% benchmark.
  • 85.4% first-year retention is 8.6 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
  • -67.1% return on investment is 152.4 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
  • Median earnings of $50,955 run about 17% higher than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
  • Average net price of $38,707 is roughly $21,310 higher than the national median of $17,397.

Helpfulness for Students

Green Flags
  • 21:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
  • 85.4% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
  • 71.5% employment rate within three years sits 3.3 points above national outcomes.
Red Flags
  • Average net price of $38,707 is about $21,310 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
  • Pell participation at 11.8% trails the national share by 27.3 points, so equity work remains important.
  • Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis

Located in High Point, NC, High Point University operates as a private nonprofit university and receives a C+ from EDsmart. It appears at #1533 in EDsmart's national list Grades by category break down as Completion A-, Support B-, Career Outcomes B-, and Affordability D+.

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.

About 85.4% of first-year students return, and roughly 73.7% finish within six years. Return on investment currently measures -67.1% for this program.

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 $38,707 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $65,548.

Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $26,841 per year.

Graduates leave with a median of $19,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.

About 11.8% 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

Six years in, alumni earn roughly $50,955 at the median. This is roughly 17% above typical U.S. college outcomes.

Employment outcomes report about 71.5% of alumni working within three years.

Plan around an ROI of about -67.1% according to the Scorecard data.

Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.

EDsmart Admissions Snapshot

75.3% 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 High Point University 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.

EDsmart Verdict
1.06 / 5
Value Rating - Based on affordability and career outcomes

Your Decision Toolkit

Run the Net Price Calculator
Get your personalized cost estimate
Compare with similar schools
See how High Point University stacks up to alternatives
Check your major's earnings
See ROI for your specific field of study
Visit the campus
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Visit High Point University Website →

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Nearby Schools

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Other North Carolina campuses you might consider

Brevard College
Brevard, NC
C+ #1532 of 6,101
Methodist University
Fayetteville, NC
C+ #1504 of 6,101
Warren Wilson College
Swannanoa, NC
C+ #1573 of 6,101
Barton College
Wilson, NC
C+ #1481 of 6,101

Frequently Asked Questions

What is High Point University's acceptance rate?

High Point University's acceptance rate is 75.3%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.

How much does High Point University cost?

At High Point University, listed tuition and fees are $45,312 per year, and the average net price after aid is $38,707. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.

What is High Point University's ranking?

High Point University ranks #1533 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of C+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.

What is High Point University's graduation rate?

At High Point University, the six-year graduation rate is 73.7%, and first-year retention is 85.4%.

What are High Point University's job outcomes?

Graduates of High Point University report median earnings of $50,955 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.

What is High Point University's student population?

High Point University enrolls about 5,129 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.

Contact Information

  • AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
  • Endowment$151.5M

Data Source & Methodology