2023 Best College Athletics in North Carolina

• Chapel Hill, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.87 out of 5  2,583 reviews

Senior: My experience has been nothing short of amazing! My freshman year was quite interesting, and a little difficult. I mean, we were in the midst of a global pandemic. My freshman year I didn't like in a dorm, had all online classes, I think I went to main campus a couple times at most. However, time went on when it became safe to return to campus and have in-person classes and club meetings. Sophomore year I met one of my best friends in a pre-law professional fraternity, things were going well and I was meeting so many different people of all different types of backgrounds. I love the people at my school and in the town of Chapel Hill, and my professors truly care about their work and educating others. There aren't many things I would change. I think when it comes to different majors, I would like to see more diversity in identity.... Read 2,583 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 20%

• Net price $11,508

• SAT range 1140-1380

• Durham, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.92 out of 5  1,181 reviews

Junior: I think Duke is the perfect balance of academics and leisure. The school spirit is unmatched and something I appreciate. A lot of professors are truly dedicated to their craft and care deeply about the students' and our education. Some professors can be challenging to deal with and not as organized, but there are a lot of resources on campus that are available for students. The food is also amazing compared to other schools, many options.... Read 1,181 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 6%

• Net price $27,297

• SAT range 1470-1570

• Boone, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.78 out of 5  2,717 reviews

Junior: Appalachian State is a great university where i have made the most meaningful connections, both personal and professional. Boone is a beautiful town with amazing scenery of the blue ridge mountains that comes alive every fall on gamedays.... Read 2,717 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A+

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $12,735

• SAT range 1130-1300

• Winston-salem, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.71 out of 5  850 reviews

Niche User: Small school academic benefits with a favorable student/faculty ratio wrapped in the benefits of a big school spirit. Wake has a rigorous curriculum backed by caring, involved professors. Its gorgeous tree lined campus (ranked as one of the most beautiful by Architectural Digest) has plenty of outdoor space for study and play, and has modern student housing and facilities. Downtown Winston Salem, a burgeoning area with great cafes, restaurants and arts scene, is only a short drive from campus. Although ranked #23 by US News as "best value", it is still underrated. Graduates benefit from the support of a strong alum network and a Wake diploma is highly regarded on a national level. Go Deacs!... Read 850 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 25%

• Net price $24,643

• SAT range 1270-1410

• Raleigh, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.84 out of 5  3,368 reviews

Alum: I loved NC State. I met my best friends while there and I am so thankful to my time there. I loved on campus for two years and I felt safe. Campus was a blast, always something to do. The gym was awesome! Food was great on campus. Going to sporting events was great! I went to soccer, ice hockey, volleyball, football, and basketball games! Such a wonderful time. I miss it!... Read 3,368 reviews

• grade A

• grade A

• Acceptance rate 47%

• Net price $14,328

• SAT range 1270-1440

• Greenville, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  3,004 reviews

Junior: ECU has a spacious and well-maintained campus with modern facilities, including state-of-the-art classrooms, laboratories, libraries, sports facilities, and student centers. The university strives to provide a conducive environment for both academic and extracurricular activities. As for changes or improvements, it's important to note that my knowledge cutoff is in September 2021, and I may not be aware of any recent developments or changes at ECU. If you're interested in specific aspects or changes, it would be best to consult up-to-date sources, visit the official website of ECU, or reach out to current students or faculty members for the most accurate and current information.... Read 3,004 reviews

• grade B

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 94%

• Net price $14,762

• SAT range 1020-1170

• Buies Creek, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.54 out of 5  1,326 reviews

Junior: There are many great things about attending Campbell! For one, Campbell is a consistently growing school. Campbell provides for their students, and genuinely cares for their students. At Campbell, you will find resources, staff and students to assist you in every aspect of your college journey. I personally love the atmosphere, and how diverse the campus is. Campbell has many new buildings, including a new student union which is part of the bookstore, cafeteria, gym, gaming rooms, hangout spots, dance rooms, and many more. I enjoy how Campbell is always committed to their students. Campbell has changed so much, but still remains the same driven school. This school continually improves and has always had student's best-interest at heart. Through the financial process, Campbell has always had my back.. and as a new student it is refreshing. Campbell has provided so much for me, and I highly recommend others to consider Campbell in their college decision making journey.... Read 1,326 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 87%

• Net price $23,163

• SAT range 1030-1230

• Greensboro, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.72 out of 5  3,012 reviews

Sophomore: NC A&T has provided me and many other students of color a safe place. It truly is an institution where you are free to express and be unapologetically black. I have built so many relationships and connections with my classmates which is just an amazing opportunity. My only complaint is the housing situation. The university has admitted too many students too the point where everyone does not have a place to stay. Also there is so much competition for general education classes because of how many students are admitted. There need to be more professors being hired, more education buildings, and more residential buildings. Despite this I would not choose any other university over my HBCU.... Read 3,012 reviews

• grade B

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 57%

• Net price $9,145

• SAT range 990-1170

• Wingate, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.65 out of 5  764 reviews

Other: I attended Wingate during the start of Covid, so I didn't get to experience everything fully due to social distancing and everything being locked down, but Wingate has good amenities such as a gym, convenience stores, and a variety of places to eat at for students to choose from. They give you an allowance to spend at the campus stores, which is nice and helpful.... Read 764 reviews

• grade C

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 85%

• Net price $19,013

• SAT range 930-1130

• Davidson, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.95 out of 5  332 reviews

Alum: Most of my profs were great. Since it's a small school, they're available and they invest in students! They push us to think critically. The student body's commitment to social justice is inspiring, but the administration thinks hosting panels and holding meetings to respond to racism is enough. It's not. Luckily student organizers push Davidson to go further. The party scene is ok, and there are social events for non-drinkers. There are many student activities. We're about 40 minutes from Charlotte by car but students mostly stay on campus. Counseling is free to all students, but you may have to wait 3 wks to get an appointment. Mental health is a serious issue, probably because there is so much academic pressure. Career services offers summer internship grants, job shadowing opportunities, and help applying for positions. Davidson staff in non-academic roles are incredible and during my time there, I built relationships with everyone from cafeteria workers to office administrators.... Read 332 reviews

• grade A+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 18%

• Net price $25,794

• SAT range 1300-1460

• Durham, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.64 out of 5  1,064 reviews

Sophomore: North Carolina Central University is an HBCU, or HIstorically Black College or University. Being that it is an HBCU, it is all about the black experience and providing proper education for black and brown people like myself. Without NCCU I would not be able to be the strong black young woman I am today.... Read 1,064 reviews

• grade C+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 76%

• Net price $14,496

• SAT range 930-1150

• Charlotte, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.75 out of 5  3,387 reviews

Alum: My experience in college would be studded with immense variety of emotions apart from a sense of excitement. The mere "first day away from home" feeling does engulf you. That is to say, until you find friends that you more often than not will be bound to for life! As slowly but steadily relationships were made and acquaintances became friends, life appeared a bit brighter. The after-effects of the overrated final examinations and holidays marred by crammed library sessions exams will wear off. So hard is it to comprehend the passage of time that is college.... Read 3,387 reviews

• grade B+

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $15,682

• SAT range 1120-1320

• Boiling Springs, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.68 out of 5  773 reviews

Freshman: My experience at Gardner-Webb University has been incredible. Every class that I have taken has challenged me and helped me grow into a better student and individual. The campus is gorgeous at all times of the year. The staff and fellow students are some of the kindest and most caring individuals you will ever meet. Whenever you meet someone new it feels like you have known them forever. The food is pretty good most days but every now and then, a sandwich is the best way to go. The dorms are very nice and clean. They are also in great proximity to where the classes are. Overall Gardner-Webb University is a wonderful school to further your education.... Read 773 reviews

• grade B

• grade A minus

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $20,296

• SAT range 960-1190

• High Point, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  1,519 reviews

Alum: My educational experience at HPU was one I wouldn't trade for anything. I formed such an amazing relationship with my professors, as well as other faculty and staff. Everyone was always so willing to help and truly wanted to see you succeed in every aspect. HPU gave me the tools for success and with their help, I was accepted into a highly ranked graduate school program!... Read 1,519 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 80%

• Net price $40,604

• SAT range 1080-1300

• Wilson, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.6 out of 5  429 reviews

Freshman: It is an amazing school that makes you feel included at all times! I am an international student from Spain and I couldn't be happier to have chose Barton as my college. It is home now. The campus is small but it is gorgeous. If you are planning in being a student-athlete I sincerely recommend Barton because it is a big family that will care about you. Every single teacher will know your name, that is for sure.... Read 429 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 99%

• Net price $22,996

• SAT range 970-1150

• Asheville, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.81 out of 5  691 reviews

Junior: So far, I've very much enjoyed my time at UNCA! My classes are small, my professors are well educated and understanding, and I'm having a great time while I learn! It seems that the faculty and staff at UNCA truly care about my performance and my overall mental health. Being on campus and feeling the support from the academic community is so appreciated! I feel like I've finally found a place to belong, a place to feel good about my work, and I place that not only supports my growth, but offers many resources along the way. I'm so glad UNCA is part of my academic journey! Thanks UNCA, I'm truly grateful to be here!... Read 691 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 82%

• Net price $13,838

• SAT range 1130-1330

• Charlotte, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  596 reviews

Freshman: So far I have loved my experience at Queens. I love the students and my professors. I also love the atmosphere on campus. Queens has built a really great community. There is something for everyone on campus. One thing I would like to see improved on campus would be students voices being heard and students needs being met. I feel like a lot of good could come from that. Overall I have enjoyed my time at Queens. Go Royals!... Read 596 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 69%

• Net price $29,810

• SAT range 1060-1230

• Greensboro, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.73 out of 5  3,107 reviews

Sophomore: I am a dance major at University of North Carolina at Greensboro and I came in as a transfer student. The people at the school have open arms and welcomed me in like no other. There’s always easy access to get to and from wherever you need on and off campus. There’s plenty of different dorms and apartments to room in and they really just make you feel at home. The food is the best in the state and nothing can top fried chicken Wednesday! There’s so many different clubs, organizations and more that you can become apart of so you’ll never feel left out. The education part is amazing. If you really just want to go and take a class you can! Over all this place is very open and genuine. Thank you UNCG!... Read 3,107 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 91%

• Net price $9,950

• SAT range 1020-1260

• Wilmington, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.76 out of 5  1,930 reviews

Sophomore: Overall, Campus is beautiful. I love how sustainable UNCW is. There's plenty of places to sit and study or eat before or after a class. Dorms are pretty decent- I was worried going into my Freshman year because I was going to be in an older building with communal bathrooms but I actually enjoyed my time there. The main issue I have with UNCW is the dining, which is incredibly lackluster. The options aren't great and I would often avoid eating. I also wish we had more options in the on-campus markets. In terms of education, I feel like its decent enough. I love my major and the department is great but I have had iffy experience with professors in other departments. There are many ways to get involved on campus, however, they are not advertised enough. If you want to get involved you really have to go searching for what you want. My final issue with UNCW is that out of state tuition is ridiculously high, and as an out of state student this is a large fault with the school.... Read 1,930 reviews

• grade B+

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 68%

• Net price $18,792

• SAT range 1210-1330

• Elon, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.58 out of 5  1,539 reviews

Freshman: I love Elon! The community is so welcoming, and you can tell my stepping on the beautiful campus. The school supplies so many opportunities for students to get involved. Org fairs are amazing ways to find new things that you may be interested in, and meet others who have the same interests as you. Almost all of the undergraduate teachers that I have had are very understanding and genuinely want to see their students succeed. The night life is very fun, however parties start later than at other universities. Dining options are very good and there are plenty of retail places that you can 'swipe' into a select number of times a week, depending on your meal plan. I have no complaints about Elon and would highly recommend applying!... Read 1,539 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 78%

• Net price $40,366

• SAT range 1160-1320

• Hickory, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.74 out of 5  457 reviews

Freshman: Lenoir-Rhyne University has overall been an excellent experience! Applying to the college, getting in contact with advising and help desks have been the easiest. The campus is beautiful and very enticing. The students and staff are very pleasant to talk to and be around. Although the school is very challenging, Lenoir-Rhyne is worth every penny! The school makes getting your BSN so easy. So far there is nothing about the school that I would change. I would recommend this school to anyone who is serious about their education. Along with a great curriculum, they also have a fantastic sports regimen. Their music program brings students from all over the country to their school and continues to win awards for their skills. There is a little bit of everything for everyone. There are sororities and other clubs for extra curricular activities.... Read 457 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 86%

• Net price $21,739

• SAT range 970-1170

• Cullowhee, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.8 out of 5  1,576 reviews

Sophomore: This school is honestly a great school. I never attended a school where the faculty and staff actually cares about me or my education. They have a a police department on campus, they even email us about any serious situation that happens in the area such as car accidents or even fires that don’t even happen at the school but also the county. I was put on a waitlist for school housing because they were expected to be at full capacity and they helped me look for off campus housing in the meantime. Thankfully , they worked quick to move me up the waitlist and I was able to get assigned a dorm within 3 days of being on the waitlist. My school is also located in the Mountain region of North Carolina so I’m able to be around nature and be outside and more active which is also great for me because I wanted to get into shape and be more healthy. All in all this is a great school that I feel anyone could enjoy and this is honestly coming from my heart I’m not fabricating.... Read 1,576 reviews

• grade B

• grade B+

• Acceptance rate 79%

• Net price $13,082

• SAT range 1060-1230

• Laurinburg, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.41 out of 5  166 reviews

Niche User: The tour I got was amazing! I got to see all aspect of the school and inside of the dorms. I got to tour the whole campus which helped me see all the good and bad part of the school. I love the way the school has different things for any and everyone. In the school itself, you feel like a family. Its not just a school you're going to for 4 years, you meet people you'll be friends with for the rest of your life... Read 166 reviews

• grade C minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 12%

• Net price $19,862

• SAT range 780-1150

• Salisbury, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.57 out of 5  347 reviews

Graduate Student: The majority of my time at Catawba is going nicely. The school's personnel and instructors are kind, and I enjoy the environment. I'd like to see the classrooms and buildings renovated because they need to be updated.The gym also need restoration because it is too tiny for a school with that many kids. The "quad," which serves as the hub of campus, is typically empty because there is little to do there. The school needs to do a better job of organizing activities so that children may interact and develop friends.... Read 347 reviews

• grade C+

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 56%

• Net price $19,276

• SAT range 990-1150

• Misenheimer, NC•

• 4 Year

• •
  Rating 3.35 out of 5  274 reviews

Sophomore: I love Pfeiffer's family-like atmosphere! Pfeiffer has a saying, "Pfeiffer Is Home". I know that many colleges may also have sayings like this, but I truly feel that I am at home attending Pfeiffer University. Over half of Pfeiffer's population consist of athletes which really creates that close-knit atmosphere. All athletes support each other in their success. I am currently a sophomore volleyball player at Pfeiffer and I have never once regretted my decision on attending Pfeiffer over another school. I am so thankful that I found a college that truly feels like home.... Read 274 reviews

• grade B minus

• grade B

• Acceptance rate 73%

• Net price $19,198

• SAT range 940-1130