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Appalachian State University Requirements for Admission

Choose your test.

What are Appalachian State University's admission requirements? While there are a lot of pieces that go into a college application, you should focus on only a few critical things:

• GPA requirements
• Testing requirements, including SAT and ACT requirements
• Application requirements

In this guide we'll cover what you need to get into Appalachian State University and build a strong application.

School location: Boone, NC

Admissions Rate: 83.1%

If you want to get in, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate. This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are.

The acceptance rate at Appalachian State University is 83.1% . For every 100 applicants, 83 are admitted.

This means the school is lightly selective . The school will have their expected requirements for GPA and SAT/ACT scores. If you meet their requirements, you're almost certain to get an offer of admission. But if you don't meet Appalachian State University's requirements, you'll be one of the unlucky few people who gets rejected.

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Appalachian State University GPA Requirements

Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected.

The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school's average GPA for its current students.

Average GPA: 3.97

The average GPA at Appalachian State University is 3.97 .

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.

With a GPA of 3.97, Appalachian State University requires you to be at the top of your class . You'll need nearly straight A's in all your classes to compete with other applicants. Furthermore, you should be taking hard classes - AP or IB courses - to show that college-level academics is a breeze.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them.

Appalachian State University hasn't explicitly named a policy on SAT/ACT requirements, but because it's published average SAT or ACT scores (we'll cover this next), it's likely test flexible. Typically, these schools say, "if you feel your SAT or ACT score represents you well as a student, submit them. Otherwise, don't."

Despite this policy, the truth is that most students still take the SAT or ACT, and most applicants to Appalachian State University will submit their scores. If you don't submit scores, you'll have one fewer dimension to show that you're worthy of being admitted, compared to other students. We therefore recommend that you consider taking the SAT or ACT, and doing well.

Appalachian State University SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school's average score.

Average SAT: 1210

The average SAT score composite at Appalachian State University is a 1210 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes Appalachian State University Competitive for SAT test scores.

Appalachian State University SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 1100, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1270. In other words, a 1100 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1270 will move you up to above average .

Here's the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

SAT Score Choice Policy

The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.

Appalachian State University ACT Requirements

Just like for the SAT, Appalachian State University likely doesn't have a hard ACT cutoff, but if you score too low, your application will get tossed in the trash.

Average ACT: 25

The average ACT score at Appalachian State University is 25. This score makes Appalachian State University Moderately Competitive for ACT scores.

The 25th percentile ACT score is 21, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 27.

ACT Score Sending Policy

If you're taking the ACT as opposed to the SAT, you have a huge advantage in how you send scores, and this dramatically affects your testing strategy.

Here it is: when you send ACT scores to colleges, you have absolute control over which tests you send. You could take 10 tests, and only send your highest one. This is unlike the SAT, where many schools require you to send all your tests ever taken.

This means that you have more chances than you think to improve your ACT score. To try to aim for the school's ACT requirement of 21 and above, you should try to take the ACT as many times as you can. When you have the final score that you're happy with, you can then send only that score to all your schools.

ACT Superscore Policy

By and large, most colleges do not superscore the ACT. (Superscore means that the school takes your best section scores from all the test dates you submit, and then combines them into the best possible composite score). Thus, most schools will just take your highest ACT score from a single sitting.

We weren't able to find the school's exact ACT policy, which most likely means that it does not Superscore. Regardless, you can choose your single best ACT score to send in to Appalachian State University, so you should prep until you reach our recommended target ACT score of 21.

Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you'll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

SAT/ACT Writing Section Requirements

Currently, only the ACT has an optional essay section that all students can take. The SAT used to also have an optional Essay section, but since June 2021, this has been discontinued unless you are taking the test as part of school-day testing in a few states. Because of this, no school requires the SAT Essay or ACT Writing section, but some schools do recommend certain students submit their results if they have them.

Appalachian State University considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don't need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you're applying to may require it.

Final Admissions Verdict

Because this school is lightly selective, you have a great shot at getting in, as long as you don't fall well below average . Aim for a 1100 SAT or a 21 ACT or higher, and you'll almost certainly get an offer of admission. As long as you meet the rest of the application requirements below, you'll be a shoo-in.

But if you score below our recommended target score, you may be one of the very few unlucky people to get rejected.

Admissions Calculator

Here's our custom admissions calculator. Plug in your numbers to see what your chances of getting in are. Pick your test: SAT ACT

• 80-100%: Safety school: Strong chance of getting in
• 50-80%: More likely than not getting in
• 20-50%: Lower but still good chance of getting in
• 5-20%: Reach school: Unlikely to get in, but still have a shot
• 0-5%: Hard reach school: Very difficult to get in

How would your chances improve with a better score?

Take your current SAT score and add 160 points (or take your ACT score and add 4 points) to the calculator above. See how much your chances improve?

At PrepScholar, we've created the leading online SAT/ACT prep program . We guarantee an improvement of 160 SAT points or 4 ACT points on your score, or your money back.

Here's a summary of why we're so much more effective than other prep programs:

• PrepScholar customizes your prep to your strengths and weaknesses . You don't waste time working on areas you already know, so you get more results in less time.
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• Our team is made of national SAT/ACT experts . PrepScholar's founders are Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers . You'll be studying using the strategies that actually worked for them.
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There's a lot more to PrepScholar that makes it the best SAT/ACT prep program. Click to learn more about our program , or sign up for our 5-day free trial to check out PrepScholar for yourself:

Application Requirements

Every school requires an application with the bare essentials - high school transcript and GPA, application form, and other core information. Many schools, as explained above, also require SAT and ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation, application essays, and interviews. We'll cover the exact requirements of Appalachian State University here.

Application Requirements Overview

• Common Application Not accepted
• Electronic Application Available
• Essay or Personal Statement
• Letters of Recommendation
• Interview Not required
• Application Fee $65
• Fee Waiver Available? Available
• Other Notes

Testing Requirements

• SAT or ACT Considered if submitted
• SAT Essay or ACT Writing Optional
• SAT Subject Tests
• Scores Due in Office March 15

Coursework Requirements

• Subject Required Years
• Foreign Language 2
• Social Studies 1

Deadlines and Early Admissions

• Offered? Deadline Notification
• Yes February 1 January 25
• Yes November 1 January 25

Admissions Office Information

• Address: 287 Boone, NC 28608
• Phone: (828) 262-2000 x2000
• Fax: (828) 262-3296
• Email: [email protected]

Other Schools For You

If you're interested in Appalachian State University, you'll probably be interested in these schools as well. We've divided them into 3 categories depending on how hard they are to get into, relative to Appalachian State University.

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than Appalachian State University. If you improve your SAT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

Same Level: Equally Hard to Get Into

If you're competitive for Appalachian State University, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you're currently competitive for Appalachian State University, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If Appalachian State University is currently out of your reach, you might already be competitive for these schools.

Data on this page is sourced from Peterson's Databases © 2023 (Peterson's LLC. All rights reserved.) as well as additional publicly available sources.

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University College Academic Advising Center

• Writing Placement
• New Students
• Placement Testing

All App State students must meet the First Year and Sophomore Writing Requirements as part of the General Education Program.

Writing is an important foundational skill for being a successful student at App State. Your first two years of writing courses, referred to as  Writing Across the Curriculum, are offered by the Rhetoric and Composition Program in the Department of English.

Directed Self-Placement and Self-Inventory

Incoming students who do not meet the First Year Writing requirement may complete the  Directed Self-Placement (DSP) self-inventory  to help determine which option is best meets their needs.

Learn about Self-Placement , the Challenge Essay , RC 1000 and the RC 1000+2000 option .

First Year Writing Requirement

Students can meet the First Year Writing requirement in several ways.

• Transfer in credit for R C 1000 from another college or university
• Receive AP/IB credit or other Credit by Exam for R C 1000
• Take R C 1000: Expository Writing at App State in fall or spring of your first year
• Take R C 1000 + 2000  (Expository Writing PLUS Writing Lab)
• Complete and pass the Challenge Essay

Sophomore Writing Requirement

Students can meet the Sophomore Writing requirement in several ways:

• Transfer in credit  for R C 2001 from another college or university
• Petition for credit for R C 2001
• Take  R C 2001 at App State

Appalachian State University

As the premier public undergraduate institution in the Southeast, Appalachian State University offers incredible preparation for life and career success. In Boone, Hickory or online, you'll find your passions, conduct research alongside world-class faculty and join a community of learners, creative thinkers and effective communicators. Read more Accepts first-year applications South Public Rural Large (15,000+) Co-Ed No letter of recommendation required - First Year Accepts self-reported test scores - First Year Test Optional/Flexible - First Year Image icon View image gallery Academic Programs

• Art & Design
• Communication
• Finance/Accounting
• Government/Political Science
• Health Science
• Liberal Arts
• Performing Arts
• Social Science
• Visual Arts

Student experience

• Co-op/Internship Opportunities
• Disability Services
• Distance/online learning
• Intramural/Club Sports
• LGBTQIA Services
• Military/Veteran Services
• On-Campus Housing
• ROTC Program
• Study Abroad
• Undergraduate Research
• Veteran Fee Waiver

Application information

Find out about requirements, fees, and deadlines

Appalachian State has two deadlines for first-year students: Early Action (November 1) and Regular Decision (February 1). November 1 is also the merit-scholarship deadline and there is a separate scholarship application  that must be submitted in conjunction with your admissions application.

Our locations in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains and their foothills profoundly shape how our community lives, works and learns together. Explore our campuses in Boone and Hickory – with a guide, on your own or both. While you’re here, you will meet with the people who make up this dynamic community and learn more about what life is like at App State. You can also explore our Boone campus virtually and start picturing yourself in the High Country.

Admissions office

287 Rivers Street , Room 165 Boone , NC 28607 , United States of America

[email protected]

Phone number

(828) 262-2120

For first-year students

Admissions website.

admissions.appstate.edu/

Financial aid website

financialaid.appstate.edu/

View more in this region

Follow Appalachian State University

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Appalachian State University

Applying to App State

• Readmission: previously enrolled at Appalachian as a degree seeking student looking to return after a stop out
• Transfer: currently/previously enrolled at another institution wishing to transfer to Appalachian
• AsULead: invitation only non-degree application for high school junior program (Class of 2025)
• If you are applying as a First-year student, you must use the Common Application .

Writing requirements by college

This resource provides guidance to students on what writing questions they can expect within individual college questions!

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This resource will be available in late August.

Transfer Admissions & Engagement

• How do I transfer to Appalachian?
• Future Students

Reference the chart below based on your student type

Transfer admission criteria.

Admission criteria varies based upon the total number of transferable semester hours of college coursework you will have completed by the time you enroll at App State. Meeting these minimum requirements for admission does not guarantee admission.

24 or more hours of transferable credit

• Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of at least a 2.25 in all attempted coursework from regionally accredited institutions.
• Applicants must have earned a C (2.0) or better in coursework in addition to other requirements for it to be considered transferable

Fewer than 24 hours of transferable credit

• Applicants will be reviewed based on competitive high school GPA and SAT or ACT scores, and all attempted college coursework (2.25 cumulative college GPA required). NC High School Minimum Course Requirements apply if under the age of 21.
• Applicants must have earned a C (2.0) or better in coursework in addition to other requirements for it to be considered transferable

**Early College students will apply as a First-Year student and may choose how to be reviewed. See more information here .

Transfer Admission Process

• Transfer applicants should apply to App State via the transfer application . This application is for students who have  never attended App State previously. Apply Now !
• Plan on applying months in advance of the entry term you intend to start at Appalachian to allow students to apply for scholarships (summer/fall students only) and to find/secure housing. Spring Semester Application Dates -  October 15 - Spring Admissions Application Priority Date  December 1 - Spring Admission Application Deadline Fall/Summer Semester Application Dates -  February 1 - Fall/Summer Admissions Application Priority Date  April 1 - Fall/Summer Admission Application Deadline ** We are still accepting applications for Fall 2024!** **rolling admissions after December 1 & April 1 until the class is full
• Pay the application fee or submit a completed Official Application Fee Waiver  to [email protected] .
• Applicants will receive a myMountaineer account login through email to track the status of their application.
• Remember a completed application includes all official college transcript(s) . Official transcripts should be sent to: [email protected] or Office of Admissions, Appalachian State University, PO Box 32004, Boone, NC 28608-2004.
• A final high school transcript are required if transferring with less than 24 hours ( SAT or ACT test scores are optional) .
• Additional information may be requested after submission of your application. These items will be viewable in your myMountaineer portal . Students progressing through the admission process are encouraged to check their portal often as new information and enrollment steps will be added as you are admitted and you confirm your enrollment.
• Applicants claiming North Carolina residency must request a residency determination through the Residency Determination Service .
• Visit Appalachian to make sure it's the right fit! Transfer and App State Online Information Sessions are opportunities to participate in a presentation & tour with representatives from Transfer Admissions and Engagement.  Learn more and register . 

Cost and Aid

• Visit our Cost and Aid page to understand the expected costs of attending Appalachian. Note that many of our main campus transfer students live off campus and would only pay tuition and fees. Financial aid awards do include housing and meal costs in their estimates. Students receiving financial aid may qualify for a refund (aid award less Appalachian costs that can be used to help pay rental fees and groceries). Refunds usually are awarded a week prior to the start of the semester.  Housing costs for Boone off-campus rentals vary significantly and range between $400-$1000+ per month. Students can research off-campus housing costs through Off-Campus Student Services .
• Fees differ depending on if a student is completeing a main campus or  App State Online  program.
• Financial Aid and Scholarships are available to help make education accessible. Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) application to start the process; no separate application is necessary. Consideration for scholarships for transfer students with completed admission application begins February 1 and continues until all awards are secured. We offer 150 Academic Excellence Awards, Phi Theta Kappa scholarships for each NCCC PTK chapter, and other additional scholarships for transfer students. Visit our scholarship webpage for more information.

Penn State will extend its offer acceptance deadline from May 1 to May 15, 2024, for incoming first-year students enrolling in the summer or fall 2024 terms. Penn State News Release

• Log in to MyPennState
• Request Info

Admission Requirements

Review the basic requirements for two-year and four-year degrees, as well as the additional requirements for special programs.

High School Requirements for Admission

The minimum high school requirements for Penn State admission are outlined below. These requirements apply to all students who are interested in pursuing a degree at Penn State. Depending upon what type of applicant you are, you may also have to meet additional requirements. Please review all applicable requirements prior to applying for admission.

• 4-Year Degree (Baccalaureate Degree)
• 2-Year Degree (Associate Degree)
• GED Applicants  : additional information for applicants applying with a GED.

The high school admission requirements apply to all students interested in pursuing a degree at Penn State. Based on your applicant type, you may also have to meet additional requirements. Please review all requirements prior to applying for admission.

Appalachian State University

Cost & scholarships.

• Essay prompt

Your chances

Acceptance rate, acceptance rate breakdown, applicant breakdown, average net cost after aid.

Published costs and averages can be misleading: they don’t fully account for your family’s finances (for financial aid) or your academic profile (for scholarships).

Want to see your personalized net cost after financial aid and scholarships?

Applications

How to apply, tests typically submitted, enrolled breakdown by gender, race & ethnicity diversity, special academic offering, study abroad, credit for ap exams, offers graduate degree, academic and career counseling, similar schools.

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First-Year Applicants

It's never too early to start preparing for your future, and we are here to help. If you're graduating from high school or have never enrolled in college, you will apply as a first-year applicant. If you've already graduated from high school and begun your college education at another institution, you will need to apply as a transfer applicant . If you are not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you'll need to apply as an international applicant .

How To Apply

Apply online.

Choose to apply through one of our two applications – we do not have a preference which application you choose.

Pay the Fee

A non-refundable application fee of $85 is required. If you think you may qualify for a fee waiver, view fee waiver eligibility requirements and learn how to submit documentation here .

Select a Major

On the application, you’ll be asked to select up to two majors based on your interests. We encourage you to select two different majors because if we determine you’re not competitive for your first-choice major, you’ll be reviewed for your second-choice major.

Students interested in a studio-based major (Architecture, Art + Design, Fashion and Textile Design, Graphic & Experience Design, Industrial Design) must apply by November 1 in addition to submitting a 10-piece portfolio and design essay.

• 100+ Majors Options
• First-Year Programs

Self-Report Your Test Scores (optional)

As a part of the UNC System, NC State will be test-optional for 2024 spring and fall first-year applicants.

A determination as to whether or not NC State will remain test-optional beyond the 2024 application cycle has not yet been made by the UNC System.  We recommend that prospective students take a standardized test as part of their college application preparation. However, as long as NC State remains test-optional, standardized test scores are not required to be submitted as part of a complete application.

On the admission application you will be required to indicate whether or not you plan to submit SAT or ACT scores for consideration in the admission review process. You will not be disadvantaged if you indicate you do not want scores to be considered in your application review. Learn more about test score consideration in the review process here .

• If you choose to submit your test scores, you should self-report them on your application. We encourage you to submit all scores, and we will consider your highest sub-score from each section across your test dates to create a super-score .
• We can not guarantee scores received after the application materials deadline will be used in our review. See which test dates we accept for our application deadlines here .
• SAT Essay or ACT Writing scores are not required.
• After you have applied, any additional test scores can be added on your wolfPAW account. We will not accept standardized test scores on your high school transcript.
• If you choose to enroll at NC State and opted for test scores to be considered during your application review, official SAT (code: 5496) or ACT (code: 3164) test scores will be required prior to enrollment.

Complete the Essay Prompts

You’ll choose an essay prompt from the list provided by Common App or Coalition App so you can share your story with us in 650 words or less. We also have some additional short answer questions to help us get to know you better. These responses will be included in your application.

If you want to leverage an AI tool like ChatGPT for help writing your college essay, we encourage you to use it as a learning experience that can help brainstorm ideas and structure thoughts. In the end, we want to hear about your experience in your own unique voice.

Required Short Answer Questions

• Explain why you selected the academic program(s) above and why you are interested in studying these at NC State.

University Honors Program

If you are interested in being considered for NC State’s University Honors Program , there is an additional question required with a response of no more than 600 words available on the admissions application or on your wolfPAW account after you apply. Learn more about admissions criteria for these programs here .

Submit Your Transcript

To complete your application, you must send an official high school transcript to our office . Your high school counselor can submit your transcript through Common App, Coalition App, slate.org or another secure sending service such as Naviance or Parchment. Students studying at participating public high schools in North Carolina can request official transcripts be sent to our office using CFNC .

How To Be Competitive

Learn what factors we take into consideration during application review and how to be a competitive first-year applicant. 

See how you may be provided college credit for courses and exams completed in high school using our transfer credit database. 

Early College Students

View application options for North Carolina high school students studying at an early college.  

Already applied? Log in to wolfPAW to check your application status.  

High School Counselors and Community-Based Organizations

High school counselors and CBO’s play a vital role in a student’s college selection and application processes. We are here to do everything we can to support you.

After You Apply

Check your email.

After you submit your application to NC State, you will receive an email with credentials to log in to wolfPAW , your applicant portal. Please note: it may take up to 24 hours after you submit your application for you to receive wolfPAW log in credentials . Here, you can check for missing items and stay up-to-date on the status of your application.

We encourage you to check your email often , as we may email you about additional items needed to complete your application. Using your school-assigned email address? Sometimes our emails may be blocked by the server, so we recommend using a non-school email to receive our communications.

Submit the FAFSA

You don’t need to wait for an official admission decision to submit your FAFSA , and we encourage students to apply as soon as possible .

• Priority filing date for NC State: March 1
• NC State school code: 002972

View Your Decision

You will be notified of your admission decision on your wolfPAW account. If you completed your application on time and submitted all required materials by the deadline, you will receive a decision on the notification date corresponding to the application deadline for the semester you applied for.

Types of Decisions

• Admit – Some students we are able to admit right away. Head to our admitted student page to learn about next steps for joining the Wolfpack family, a view the New Student Checklist here .
• Defer – When we review applications, we find some applicants who may benefit from the opportunity to provide improved fall grades before receiving a final decision in March.
• Waitlist – We are unable to admit all qualified students into our class. Some applicants are placed on the waitlist who we believe would be successful at NC State if space is available.
• Deny – Unfortunately, some students will not be considered competitive for first-year admission. We encourage denied applicants to consider applying to NC State in the future as a transfer applicant .

Prepare to Apply

Many factors go into choosing the right college for you. It’s never too early to start thinking about your future and creating a plan for success. We consider your academic record beginning with the ninth grade and encourage you to make the most of your time in high school by doing the following.

• Identify your academic interests – NC State offers 100+ majors and minors in a wide variety of academic fields.
• Explore your personal interests – Many times, your personal and academic interests influence each other. NC State is home to more than 600 student organizations to help you find your Wolfpack.
• Challenge yourself in the classroom – Schools offer a variety of curricula. In addition to taking at least the  UNC minimum course requirements , we recommend students take challenging courses. For students applying to STEM or business majors, this usually means taking precalculus as one of their mathematics courses. When given the opportunity we encourage students to take calculus. While first year students applying to NC State for fall 2024 or a later semester are no longer required to take two units of world language, the completion of two sequential world language courses is recommended to satisfy the NC State General Education Program’s Foreign Language Proficiency Requirement.   If a student does not take two sequential units of a world language in high school those two additional courses must come from English, mathematics, science, social studies or computer science.

Pre-college resources

We offer pre-college programs to help you prepare for college while also experiencing life at NC State.

Find a program 

Planning for College Guide

Your journey to college begins in high school. Use this college road map to navigate your road to success.

Plan it out 

Appalachian Today

An online publication of Appalachian State University

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• Faculty and Staff
• Gifts and Grants
• Health and Wellness
• Publications
• Scholarships
• Sustainability

App State has earned high rankings for having graduates with low student loan debt — lower than that of their statewide and national peers, according to recent reports from The Institute for College Access and Success and U.S. News & World Report. Pictured are App State students on the university’s Boone campus. Photo by Kyla Willoughby

Less college debt + more lifetime earnings = the App State advantage

“College doesn’t have to be financially intimidating.” App State alumna Maegan Adolph ’22

“There are so many scholarships out there, and the small ones really add up.” App State alumna Alyssa Bouchard ’14

BOONE, N.C. — Is a college degree a good investment? At Appalachian State University, the answer is clear: An App State education continues to be a pathway to a better life for North Carolinians, paving the way for higher wages and greater opportunities.

According to recent reports from The Institute for College Access and Success and U.S. News & World Report, Mountaineers graduate with lower student loan debt loads than those of their statewide and national peers. Additionally, a 2023 University of North Carolina System Return on Investment study found that System bachelor’s degree graduates reap over half a million more in lifetime earnings than North Carolinians without degrees.

“A college degree yields many economic and social benefits to our graduates,” said UNC System President Peter Hans in an October 2023 System news release. “But those benefits are far more apparent if students are able to graduate on time and with less debt. Our universities focus on providing a high-quality, affordable education for all North Carolinians and helping students grow from their experience.”

Pictured in the foreground, two App State students study on Sanford Mall on the university’s Boone campus. Photo by Chase Reynolds

On-campus jobs “are accommodating for students’ schedules and are a great way to network within the university community.” App State alumna Berenice Blanco ’21

Highly ranked for low student debt

At App State, being a Mountaineer doesn’t have to come with a mountain of debt. In fact, the university has been recognized among Southern higher education institutions where graduates take on lower amounts of student loan debt.

The university ranks as No. 4 among four-year public and private North Carolina higher education institutions for lowest average student debt, according to The Institute for College Access and Success’ (TICAS) 16th annual report on student debt .

Among Class of 2019–20 graduates, TICAS noted the average federal student loan debt per borrower was:

• $29,681 for North Carolina graduates;
• $28,950 for nationwide graduates; and
• $23,105 for App State graduates — or 22% and 20% below the state and national debt averages , respectively.

U.S. News & World Report has recognized App State within the top 15% of public and private Southern colleges and universities where graduates carry the lightest debt loads . As part of its 2024 rankings, the publication ranked App State as No. 18 for least average student debt among 2020 and 2021 graduates.

App State’s affordable costs contribute to lower than average borrowing among its students. At App State, 2023–24 tuition and fees for in-state students total $8,081. The university’s total undergraduate 2023–24 costs of attendance — including tuition and fees, housing, meal plans, transportation, textbooks and supplies — are well below the national averages:

• At App State — $24,024 for in-state residents and $41,720 for out-of-state residents.
• National averages — $28,840 for in-state students and $46,730 for out-of-state students at public institutions, and $60,420 at private institutions ( College Board ).

Additional accolades highlighting the value of an App State education include rankings among Money.com’s 2023 “Best Colleges in America,” U.S. News’ 2024 “Best Value Universities in the South” and Washington Monthly’s 2023 “Best Bang for the Buck.”

Across the UNC System, student debt levels are on the decline — thanks in large part to a freeze on tuition rates for eight consecutive years.

In 2016–17, 63% of in-state UNC System undergraduates held federal student loan debt at graduation; that number dropped to 55% for those who graduated in 2022.

A Class of 2023 and military-affiliated graduate stands with a smile while being recognized at App State’s Fall 2023 Commencement. According to a 2023 UNC System Return on Investment (ROI) study, the median lifetime earnings of System bachelor’s degree graduates are $1.2 million — about $572,000 more than lifetime earnings of North Carolinians without degrees. Photo by Chase Reynolds

Investing in education pays off: 4-year grads earn $500K more than those without degrees

Earning a degree at App State, one of 16 universities in the UNC System, is not just an affordable investment but one that has high value in the job market.

The UNC System’s 2023 Return on Investment (ROI) Study found that median lifetime earnings of UNC System bachelor’s degree graduates are $1.2 million — surpassing lifetime earnings of North Carolinians without degrees by about $572,000. When subtracting the cost of earning an undergraduate degree, the median overall ROI is $500,000 for UNC System undergraduates who complete degrees — compared to North Carolinians without undergraduate degrees.

For those who earn graduate degrees, the median lifetime earnings are $2.1 million — or about $1 million more than those who have only a bachelor’s degree. Subtracting the cost of earning a graduate degree, the median lifetime ROI is more than $930,000 for those who complete UNC System graduate degrees — compared to North Carolinians without graduate degrees.

Additional highlights from the study:

• 94% of undergraduate degree programs have a positive ROI for graduates.
• 91% of graduate degree programs have a positive ROI for graduates.
• Nearly 90% of low-income students experience upward economic mobility.
• The average student breaks even on their educational investment in under 10 years.

The study, commissioned and funded by the General Assembly and conducted by Deloitte, estimated the return on investment for 724 undergraduate programs and 575 graduate programs across the UNC System.

A positive return on investment in higher education is also backed by the latest data of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , which reported that, in 2022, bachelor’s degree holders took home a median weekly salary of $1,432, while workers with just a high school diploma earned only $853 — a difference of 68%.

App State ranks as No. 3 in the UNC System for both its current six-year graduation rate (73%) and its current first- to second-year retention rate (85%). App State’s current four-year graduation rate (55%) is No. 4 in the System.

The many ways to pay for higher education

App State alumna Maegan Adolph ’22, who earned her bachelor’s degree in exercise science, used multiple scholarships and grants to pay for her App State education. Photo by Chase Reynolds

An App State education offers great value , and as App State alumnae Maegan Adolph ’22, Berenice Blanco ’21 and Alyssa Bouchard ’14 shared, numerous funding resources exist to support students’ educational pursuits at App State.

“College doesn’t have to be financially intimidating,” said Adolph.

Sources available to help students finance their education include university scholarships, outside scholarships, grants, loans, work-study programs and tuition assistance.

Approximately two-thirds of App State students receive financial aid to help pay for their time in school, according to the Office of Student Financial Aid and University Scholarships , whose staff are available to assist App State students and families throughout the process of applying for financial aid.

Adolph, who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in exercise science , strongly encourages all prospective college students to start their financial aid journey by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA , which provides students with access to grants, loans and work-study funds from the federal government.

“It was one of the first things I did,” she said. “It’s so important, and sometimes I would get offers for need-based grants just because they could tell I had financial need.”

Most North Carolinians from households earning $80,000 or less will receive a minimum Next NC Scholarship of $5,000 per year to attend any UNC System institution, provided they fill out and submit a FAFSA by June 1. The Next NC Scholarship combines federal Pell Grants and state-funded financial aid to provide students enough money to cover half, if not all, of their tuition and fees at any UNC System institution. Students with greater need can qualify for even more support.

To pay for her App State education, Adolph secured multiple scholarships and grants, including university’s signature Impact Scholars Program Scholarship — a merit-based scholarship that covers full in-state tuition and fees for up to four years and includes leadership workshops, service-learning, international experiences and mentorship opportunities.

App State alumna Berenice Blanco ’21 financed nearly all of her educational costs using a combination of institutional and outside scholarships, outside grants and her work-study in App State’s Office of Alumni Affairs. Photo submitted

Blanco earned her bachelor’s degree in elementary education from App State, financing nearly all of her educational costs using a combination of institutional and outside scholarships, outside grants and her work-study. As a result, she was able to navigate her post-graduation transition without much financial burden, she said.

Blanco advises Mountaineer students to seek out and take advantage of all available financial aid resources, and to check out App State clubs and organizations for information on such resources.

“Plenty of clubs and organizations host informative meetings or webinars to provide students with (financial aid) tools they may not be aware of,” she said.

Through her work-study, Blanco assisted with university fundraising efforts as a call center employee in App State University Advancement , which provided flexible hours and opportunities for advancement, she said.

For those considering part-time jobs while in school, Blanco encourages Mountaineer students to seek out on-campus jobs, which “are accommodating for students’ schedules and are a great way to network within the university community.”

Blanco was an inaugural scholarship recipient in the university’s Bill and Hughlene Frank Scholars Program , which covers approximately 75% of the cost of tuition for graduates of Guilford County high schools. She also received an academic scholarship from the Reich College of Education .

For continuing students, the Appalachian Scholarship Application Portal (ASAP) is a particularly helpful tool, Blanco shared. ASAP allows continuing Mountaineers to apply for a wide range of university, college and departmental scholarships through a single application. Students are automatically matched to scholarship opportunities for which they are eligible.

Alyssa Bouchard ’14, vice president of industry engagement for Gamma Iota Sigma, received financial aid and multiple scholarships, allowing her to graduate debt-free from App State. Photo submitted

Bouchard graduated debt-free from App State, earning her bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus on risk management and insurance .

“I had no idea how I was going to pay for school," said Bouchard. "I did not have a college fund, so I was completely dependent on financial aid and scholarships.”

Bouchard was a recipient of the Spencer Educational Foundation Scholarship, the Golden LEAF Scholarship and many smaller scholarships from the university and outside organizations.

She also worked throughout college for the App State Brantley Risk and Insurance Center and in University Housing , and completed six different paid internships during summer and winter breaks.

Adolph, Blanco and Bouchard advise students to seek out scholarships and “fill out every single application you can get your hands on.”

“App State and outside organizations are really generous toward students,” said Bouchard. “There are so many scholarships out there, and the small ones really add up. While a lot of students apply for those big scholarships and full rides, the smaller scholarships are often overlooked. So the odds are really good that you will get something.”

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Financial aid is money to help pay for college. Anyone can access financial aid, regardless of income, GPA or residency. Students can qualify for financial aid based on need or merit. Need is what a family can contribute to college costs. Merit refers to achievement in academics, sports or other areas.

Taking the time to fill out applications, write a few essays and find the right job opportunities can go a long way in paying for college. Here are five ways you can help fund your App State education.

FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

The most important step to securing financial assistance is by filling out the FAFSA. The application provides students with access to grants, loans and work-study funds from the federal government. Loans must be repaid, while grants do not need to be repaid — as long as students maintain enrollment and meet all other requirements.

According to the Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA), students with a greater need for financial assistance may receive federal Pell Grants for up to 12 semesters. The amount of money students receive depends on financial need and cost of attendance, with the current maximum amount at $7,395 per academic year.

The FSA also states that applicants with the most financial need may qualify for the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant — with App State students receiving a maximum of up to $500 per academic year.

The FAFSA typically begins accepting applications from current and prospective college students in early October. The deadline to apply is the end of June of the following year. Students should submit the FAFSA as early as possible, as some funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Students do not have to be admitted to a school prior to filling out the FAFSA. Students need to complete and submit a new FAFSA each year to apply for financial aid, making sure that any information carried over from a previous application is still accurate for the current year.

App State scholarships

App State offers university and departmental scholarships to first-year, transfer and continuing students. These merit- and need-based scholarships provide varying awards ranging from partial to full institutional costs.

App State also offers more competitive “signature scholarships” consisting of merit- and need-based opportunities for students with ambitious academic goals, students from underrepresented populations and more.

All institutional scholarships are tied to admission, so students must meet the early action admission application deadline in the fall before submitting applications.

Continuing students must apply for App State scholarships through the Appalachian Scholarship Application Portal (ASAP) . With ASAP, students are automatically matched to scholarships for which they are eligible.

Outside scholarships

Each year, students bring about $4.9 million in scholarships from outside organizations with them to App State. Students are encouraged to reach out to local community organizations, as thousands of scholarships are available each academic year.

Sources to connect with include student employers, employers of a dependent student’s parents, civic organizations and clubs, community foundations, religious groups, local businesses, chambers of commerce and local government agencies.

Students can seek guidance in learning about access to outside scholarships through high school counselors and App State’s Student Financial Aid Office.

Federal work-study jobs are administered on campus through the Office of Student Employment and are awarded to eligible students based on the FAFSA. Students are paid twice monthly according to hours worked, with earnings paid directly to the student, rather than being credited to the student’s account to pay for institutional charges.

For students who do not qualify for federal work-study, other on-campus student jobs are available through the Office of Student Employment.

Tuition assistance

For those looking to work their way through college outside of a work-study, many major companies now offer tuition assistance programs. Some examples include Amazon, AT&T, Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s, Publix and Walmart. Depending on the company, students can receive partial to full tuition reimbursement.

Planning ahead and managing a budget will help college students keep costs down.

Get a head start on college courses

The less time you spend in college, the less money you’ll need for tuition and fees. High school students can get a jump on college credits by taking Advanced Placement courses, as well as participating in dual enrollment programs.

Attending a local community college out of high school is another option for those looking to save money — and it comes with the likely possibility of transferring into a four-year university.

The Aspire Appalachian Co-Admission Program offers a seamless pathway for students enrolled at partner community colleges to complete their degrees at App State. Students participating in the program will receive dedicated advising assistance from both their community college and the university.

Stay in state

Staying in your home state can save you tens of thousands of dollars on college tuition. The current national average total cost of attendance at public universities is $28,840 for in-state residents and $46,730 for out-of-state residents. This includes tuition and fees, meal plan, room and board, transportation and textbooks and supplies.

Consider online degree programs

Obtaining your college degree online can reduce your total cost of attendance by offering savings on student fees and eliminating the need for housing, transportation and a meal plan.

App State offers online degree and certificate programs for undergraduate and graduate students.

Start saving early

Make the most of your high school or college job by setting a portion of the money you earn aside. Many banks offer plans specifically designed to encourage saving for future educational costs — including for tuition, books and supplies, computers and more. These types of savings plans maximize the amount of interest you can earn.

Get thrifty

Manage the daily costs of living — such as gas, groceries and internet — by being thrifty and having a budget in place.

Some ways to save money include buying or renting used textbooks, taking public transportation to and from campus, finding the right meal plan (if you don’t use all of your meal plan money each academic year, you lose it) and refraining from using credit cards when possible to avoid any extra debt. Living with roommates or commuting from home (for those eligible) can cut down on housing costs.

Graduate on time

It can be difficult to decide what to major in, but extra semesters mean extra money. Having a game plan before starting college can help you avoid taking unnecessary classes and graduate on time. It’s even possible to graduate early by taking an extra class or two each semester.

The government offers both subsidized and unsubsidized student loans. It is important to understand the difference between these loan types and the terms of repayment:

• Direct subsidized loans from the government are based on financial need and must be repaid. With some stipulations, the interest on the loan is paid by the government until six months after the student leaves school, when the student’s repayment schedule begins. Subsidized loans are only available to undergraduate students.
• Direct unsubsidized loans , with no requirement to demonstrate financial need, are available to both graduate and undergraduate students through the government and/or private lenders. Interest begins to accrue immediately, while the student is in school. Depending on the terms of the loan, the student may make interest-only payments while in school — or defer payments and accumulated interest until after graduation.

When choosing a loan to pay for college, students should use subsidized loans first, if they qualify.

Appalachian State University offers students the opportunity to receive a world-class education at an affordable rate, with an average of $25 million awarded to incoming, current and transfer students each year based on need, as well as academic and athletic achievement. On average, about $4.9 million in outside aid is awarded to App State students annually. App State’s Office of Student Financial Aid and University Scholarships assists students in learning about and applying for these university scholarship opportunities and also shares information about non-App State scholarships.

About Appalachian State University

As a premier public institution, Appalachian State University prepares students to lead purposeful lives. App State is one of 17 campuses in the University of North Carolina System, with a national reputation for innovative teaching and opening access to a high-quality, affordable education for all. The university enrolls more than 21,000 students, has a low student-to-faculty ratio and offers more than 150 undergraduate and 80 graduate majors at its Boone and Hickory campuses and through App State Online. Learn more at https://www.appstate.edu .

Appalachian Today is an online publication of Appalachian State University. This website consolidates university news, feature stories, events, photo galleries, videos and podcasts.

The migration of materials from other sites is still incomplete, so if you cannot find what you're looking for here, please refer to the following sources:

• Additional feature stories may be found at Appalachian Magazine
• Podcasts may be found at Appalachian Magazine
• Photo galleries and videos published prior to Jan. 1, 2015 may be found at Appalachian Magazine
• A university-wide Google Calendar may be found at Events at Appalachian

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• Transfer Student

Are you ready to be a Mountaineer? The App State Experience — whether it's in Boone, Hickory or online — creates opportunities that last a lifetime. Your future starts at App State. Take the step to become a Mountaineer. You are considered a transfer student  if you have attended another institution after graduating from high school, including second-degree seeking applicants.  

2024 Transfer Application

The 2024 Transfer Application is still open and we'd love for you to apply! Get started on your Mounatineer journey today. 

Dates and Deadlines

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis for all terms starting in mid-September. 

Dates to apply

• April 1:  Summer / Fall Admission Application deadline

Applications received after the deadline will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the class is full.

Transfer Admission Criteria

Admission criteria varies based upon the total number of transferable semester hours of college coursework you will have completed by the time you enroll at App State. Meeting these minimum requirements for admission does not guarantee admission.

24 or more hours of transferable credit

• Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of at least a 2.25 in all attempted coursework.
• Applicants must have earned a C (2.0) or better in coursework in addition to other requirements for it to be considered transferable

Fewer than 24 hours of transferable credit

• Applicants will be reviewed based on competitive high school GPA and SAT or ACT scores, and all attempted college coursework (2.25 cumulative college GPA required). NC High School Minimum Course Requirements apply if under the age of 21.
• Applicants must have earned a C (2.0) or better in coursework in addition to other requirements for it to be considered transferable

Additional Action Items

The following items may be requested by Admissions once your application is submitted.

• Residency Confirmation
• Criminal Background Check

Find your Transfer Counselor

No matter where you are in the transfer process, we are here to help! Learn more about App State and when you are ready to apply, check out the application requirements below.

Application Requirements

We want to learn about who you are, what you are passionate about and how App State can help make your ambitions a reality.

• Complete an application (apply using the Transfer Application)
• Submit $65 application fee or approved fee waiver
• Submit an official transcript from each institution you have attended
• Submit an official high school/secondary school transcript Required if you have fewer than 24 hours of transferable credit 
• Submit official test scores Required if you have fewer than 24 hours of transferable credit
• Complete your FAFSA (application opens Dec.; school code: 002906)

Military Student or Dependent If you are a military service member or veteran you will go through the same admission process as transfer students but may need to submit additional documents. Learn more about applying as a military student or dependent .

Returning Mountaineer If you ever attended App State as an undergraduate student and would like to re-enroll, you must submit a readmission application. Access the readmission application .

Adult Learners If you are 25 years of age or older, App State reviews your application through a holistic review process. Your application process may vary. Learn more about applying as an adult learner .

Transferring Credits

Got credit? Let us help you determine what may transfer . Use the NC Community College Transfer Guides to explore what course to take before transferring and our Transfer Equivalency Course Search to determine how your complete courses will transfer to App.

Dynamic Transfer Pathways

Other ways to become a Mountaineer

These guided processes between other colleges and App State help create a better transfer experience for you.

Aspire Appalachian

A seamless pathway for students enrolled at partner community colleges to complete their degree at App State.

Articulation Agreements

Agreements between two or more colleges and universities documenting the transfer policies for a specific academic program or degree in general.

Scholarships

Eligible incoming students who have completed their application for admission by Feb. 1 will receive priority consideration for transfer student scholarship opportunities. Review eligibilty and learn more about our scholarship opportunities . 

Feb. 1- Consideration begins for transfer students with completed application

• March 1 - Award offers begin to go out on or around the first of each month until all funds are secured

Students in a PTK chapter should indicate their affiliation PTK on their transfer application to be considered for the Appalachian Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) Scholarship!

Why transfer to App?

Hear from our transfer students about their Appalachian Experience and why they chose to transfer to App State.

Options for Submitting Materials

Mymountaineer portal.

All applicants will have access to the MyMountaineer Portal once your application is submitted. This is where you will receive information regarding your application, including any missing application materials and your admission decision. Learn more about our transcript requirements .

[email protected]

The Office of Admissions Appalachian State University PO Box 32004 Boone, NC 28608-2004

Transfer Resources & Involvement

Transfer Admissions & Engagement supports transfer students at all stages of their education — from initial inquiry, throughout their transition to App State, and during their academic and social journey.

Support for your transfer journey

Graduates of Cooperative Innovative High Schools (Early College)

Graduates from North Carolina Cooperative Innovative High Schools will submit a first-year application, but will have a choice in how their application is reviewed. Learn more about our policy.