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UNC Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, 🇺🇸 United States Public
#27 National #140 QS World #78 THE #22 ARWU
UNC Chapel Hill campus
32,234 students Suburban $41.2k - $71k/yr

About UNC Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC Chapel Hill) is a leading global public research university located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States. Chartered in 1789, it holds the distinction of being the nation's first public university to award degrees in the 18th century. UNC Chapel Hill is renowned for its commitment to providing a high-quality, affordable education to a diverse student body, fostering creators, explorers, innovators, and leaders.

Academics


UNC Chapel Hill offers a comprehensive range of academic programs, with 74 bachelor's, 104 master's, 65 doctorate, and seven professional degree programs across 14 schools, including the College of Arts & Sciences. Notable programs include Journalism and Communication, Health Professions (with top-ranked healthcare policy, nursing, and medicine programs), Public Policy Analysis, Biomedical Engineering (a joint department with NC State University), Social Sciences, and the highly-regarded Kenan-Flagler Business School. The university is classified as "R1: Doctoral Universities – very high research activity" and was ranked ninth among American universities for research and development expenditures in 2023.

International Students


UNC Chapel Hill is home to a diverse international student population, with students from over 100 different countries. In 2020, approximately 1,848 international students were enrolled, with China, India, and South Korea being the largest contributors to this population. The International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) provides extensive support, including assistance with immigration compliance, transitioning to U.S. academic life, and networking opportunities. Student organizations like the International Students' Organization (ISO) and International Friends aim to facilitate cultural integration and provide a supportive social environment.

Campus & Location


The UNC Chapel Hill campus spans 760 acres, encompassing the iconic Morehead Planetarium and the vibrant Franklin Street, known for its shops and restaurants. Chapel Hill offers a lively college town atmosphere with a walkable campus. Students can explore numerous campus features, including multiple libraries, dining halls, and a student union that serves as a hub for over 550 student organizations. The university's location provides easy access to nearby attractions and a strong sense of community.

Career Outcomes


UNC Chapel Hill boasts strong career outcomes, with over 95% of graduates entering full-time employment or further education within six months of graduation. Graduates often secure positions with major companies such as Bank of America, Deloitte, IBM, PwC, and Ernst & Young. The university's proximity to the Research Triangle Park also provides excellent job prospects in biotech and pharmaceutical industries. The UNC Career Center offers comprehensive services, including career advising, workshops, career fairs, and an extensive alumni network to support students in their career development. UNC Chapel Hill also fosters a strong startup culture, with over 575 university-affiliated startups launched since 1958.

Highlights

  • Nation's first public university
  • Top-tier research institution
  • Diverse academic programs
  • Strong international student support
  • Historic and expansive campus

Student Life & Support

Visa Support Campus Housing Sports Facilities Scholarships Available

Photos

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Programs Offered at UNC Chapel Hill (18)

Offers programs in:

Business & Management Computer Science Engineering Humanities Linguistics & Literature Medicine & Health Natural Sciences Physics & Chemistry Social Sciences

Bachelor Programs (9)

Biology

STEM

Biology

Biology
biology at UNC Chapel Hillbiology program United Statesbiology in Chapel Hillbiology degreeBSc Biology
48 months English Full-time

$36,896/yr

Biomedical Engineering

STEM

Biomedical Engineering

Biomedical Engineering
english-taught bachelor in united statesbiomedical degreebiomedical program abroadundergraduate in biomedical engineeringbachelor degree biomedical engineering
48 months English Full-time

$36,896/yr

Economics

Economics

Economics
BachelorChapel HillEconomicsUnited Statesundergraduate
48 months English Full-time

$36,896/yr

History

History

History
study History in United Statesbachelor History United StatesHistory international studentsHistory BS programbest History programs
48 months English Full-time

$36,896/yr

Journalism and Media

Journalism

Journalism & Media
babachelorbsbscjournalism
48 months English Full-time

$36,896/yr

Nursing

STEM

Nursing

Nursing
bs nursingbsn programbachelor in nursingenglish-taught bachelor nursingnursing
48 months English Full-time

$36,896/yr

Physics

STEM

Physics

Physics
unc chapel hill bachelorstudy physics in united statesphysics undergraduateundergraduate in physicsbachelor physics in united states
48 months English Full-time

$36,896/yr

Political Science

Political Science

Political Science
bachelor of political sciencestudy political science in chapel hillbachelor in political science in chapel hillstudy political science in united statesundergraduate political science program
48 months English Full-time

$36,896/yr

Psychology

Psychology

Psychology & Counseling
bachelorpsychologystatesunited
48 months English Full-time

$36,896/yr

Master Programs (5)

Applied Physical Sciences

STEM

Applied Physical Sciences

Physics
appliedapplied physical sciencesmastermscphysical
24 months English Full-time

$38,000/yr

Business Administration

Business

Business
administrationbusinessgraduatemamaster
21 months English Full-time

$68,000/yr

Computer Science

STEM

Computer Science

Computer Science
computergraduatemastermastersmba
24 months English Full-time

$38,000/yr

Information Science

STEM

Information Science

Information Science
graduateinformationmamastermba
24 months English Full-time

$38,000/yr

Public Health

STEM

Public Health

Public Health
graduate in public healthinternational master public healthmaster in public healthpublic healthpublic health master program
24 months English Full-time

$40,000/yr

PhD Programs (4)

Chemistry

STEM

Chemistry

Chemistry
chemical sciences programchemistry degreechemistry programchemistry university in chapel hillenglish-taught chemistry
60 months English Full-time

$38,000/yr

English

English Literature

English Literature
phd in english literaturephd english literaturedoctorate english literaturestudy english literature in united statesphd in english literature in united states
60 months English Full-time

$38,000/yr

Pharmacology

STEM

Pharmacology

Pharmacology
phd in pharmacologyphd pharmacologyphd pharmacology degreephd pharmacology programdoctorate in pharmacology
60 months English Full-time

$38,000/yr

Sociology

Sociology

Sociology
doctor of philosophycommunity studiesresearch degreesocial researchunited states
60 months English Full-time

$38,000/yr

UNC Chapel Hill Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate

7+ IELTS
90+ TOEFL
130+ Duolingo
3+ GPA
Acceptance Rate Very Selective (<20%)
Intakes August, January
Application Deadline January 15
Tuition (per year) $41.2k - $71k/yr
Housing (monthly) ~$1250
Application Fee $85
Teaching Language English
Student : Faculty 15:1
Accreditation
SACS

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Frequently Asked Questions About UNC Chapel Hill

Common questions from international students considering UNC Chapel Hill.

What is the acceptance rate at UNC Chapel Hill?

UNC Chapel Hill is classified as "Very Selective (<20%)" by admissions selectivity. Acceptance rates vary by program — competitive programs and graduate degrees typically have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs.

How much does UNC Chapel Hill cost for international students?

Tuition at UNC Chapel Hill ranges from $41.2k - $71k/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing (approximately $1250/month), books, and living expenses.

What is UNC Chapel Hill ranked globally?

UNC Chapel Hill holds the following rankings: QS World #140, Times Higher Education #78, ARWU #22, #27 in United States. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.

What English language requirements does UNC Chapel Hill have?

UNC Chapel Hill typically requires IELTS 7+ or TOEFL 90+ for international students. Specific programs may set higher minimums — verify requirements for your target program directly. Some applicants may qualify for an English requirement waiver if their previous education was English-medium.

Are scholarships available at UNC Chapel Hill?

Yes, UNC Chapel Hill offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.

When does UNC Chapel Hill start its semesters?

UNC Chapel Hill has intakes starting in August, January. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.

How many English-taught programs does UNC Chapel Hill offer?

UNC Chapel Hill offers 18+ programs taught in English, accessible to international students without local language proficiency. These span Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across multiple disciplines.

Where is UNC Chapel Hill located?

UNC Chapel Hill is located in Chapel Hill, United States 🇺🇸. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.

How do I apply to UNC Chapel Hill?

For specific details about UNC Chapel Hill, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

What programs does UNC Chapel Hill offer?

For specific details about UNC Chapel Hill, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

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