Founded in 1899, Appalachian State University. is a Public college. Located in North Carolina, which is a city setting in North Carolina, the campus itself is Town. The campus is home to 16,595 full time undergraduate students, and 1,700 full time graduate students.
The Appalachian State University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 16:1. There are 951 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Appalachian State University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
68%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
55
SAT Range
1030-1240
ACT Range
23-27
Admissions at ASU are considered Selective, with ,140% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 24 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
90% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 55% were in the top quarter, and 18% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Appalachian State University.
2%
“We”re apathetic”
10%
“We know about current events and vote”
75%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
13%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
4%
“We save it for the classroom”
19%
“Sometimes, but not often”
61%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
17%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
3%
“I only go out in groups”
43%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
54%
“I feel extremely safe”
4%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
13%
“We bought the gear”
83%
“We live for the big game”
2%
“It”s not really our thing”
7%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
52%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
39%
“We”re a very artistic group”
6%
“Haven”t met them”
2%
“Available in class”
63%
“They keep regular office hours”
30%
“They”re always available”
3%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
36%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
58%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
3%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
2%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
22%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
47%
“We only party on weekends”
29%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
3%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
44%
“There might be people who do”
41%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
12%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
2%
“We”re apathetic”
10%
“We know about current events and vote”
75%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
13%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
4%
“We save it for the classroom”
19%
“Sometimes, but not often”
61%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
17%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
3%
“I only go out in groups”
43%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
54%
“I feel extremely safe”
4%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
13%
“We bought the gear”
83%
“We live for the big game”
2%
“It”s not really our thing”
7%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
52%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
39%
“We”re a very artistic group”
6%
“Haven”t met them”
2%
“Available in class”
63%
“They keep regular office hours”
30%
“They”re always available”
3%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
36%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
58%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
3%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
236 Students rated on-campus housing 3.3 stars. 10 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
193 Students rated off-campus housing 3.4 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
250 Students rated campus food 3.6 stars. 22 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
249 Students rated campus facilities 4.3 stars. 49 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
251 Students rated class size 4.3 stars. 51 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
251 Students rated school activities 4.4 stars. 56 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
252 Students rated local services 4.2 stars. 47 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
253 Students rated academics 4.4 stars. 60 % gave the school a 5.0.
Appalachian State University REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of Appalachian State University?
136 Students rated Appalachian State University
Bryan
Prospective04/10/2025
The Reason that I'm interested in Appalachian State is that they have a specific forensic science major. Additionally, the mountains would be a nice change of pace form my life now. going out and experiencing life is something I'm scared of doing, but something i want to do as well.
Liz
04/09/2025
Since I have only visited, it has a very nice campus and I am excited to start going to college there. The people are nice and there is always something to do on campus. There is a lot of school spirit and they are always excited to keep going. There is never not something to do, you just have to look for it.
Matthew
Prospective04/09/2025
Since my earliest memories, dinosaurs have captivated my interest. I spent much of my childhood watching various dinosaur-themed shows, with Dinosaur Train being my favorite. Through watching this program, I learned that it is possible to study dinosaurs and pursue a career as a paleontologist. This has been my dream and continues to be my primary goal. I believe that attending Appalachian State University will provide me with the education and experience necessary to further develop my knowledge, particularly through hands-on learning and exposure to relevant procedures. I have also learned that the university offers study abroad opportunities in New Mexico, where students can gain practical experience in the field, which I eagerly look forward to. I have never been more excited to continue my education and take the next steps toward realizing my dream.
Ella
Prospective04/03/2025
The variety of programs and activities draw me to App State. I value experiences, and there are many opportunities to get involved at App. From sports to the arts to music, there is truly something for everyone. I also enjoy the quiet yet active campus environment. Even though there is a plethora of activities to participate in, I feel like the campus is spread out yet still walkable. Everyone isn't on top of each other all the time, but there is still a sense of community throughout the campus.
Lauren
Prospective04/02/2025
What attracts me to Appalachian State University is the environment, energy, and people. A few months ago I toured the campus and I loved it. Firstly, I love that it is in the mountains because it makes for beautiful scenery, fun adventures, snowy weather, and there is also just a calmness that comes with breathing in the mountain air. I really enjoy the energy on the camps as well, everyone is so chill and there's a very relaxed feeling. You can also walk right to the little town of Boone which I personally think is so cute. There's shops, places to eat, and places just to hang out with friends. Lastly, the people I met on campus were so nice, everyone was super helpful and welcoming. Overall, I give Appalachian State a 4 out of 5 because I think it's great, but I am aware that it would not be everyone since there is not too much to do around and I don't it would be the best if you are not a cold weather person.
Tiffany
02/26/2025
App State University was my dream school to attend when I was beginning my educational journey, and the experience there did not disappoint. I loved the sprawling campus with all the dining and recreation options in the nearby mountains. My professors were the best, knowledgeable, approachable and very easy to work with. My favorite area on campus was the library that was never closed, always quiet, and as comfortable to me as my own home. It was where I crammed during finals and midterms, wrote my manuscript to my novel, and dozed off from time to time. I also felt safe there as there was a security office on the ground floor. Though I was not a typical college student, going to parties and football games, I enjoyed the low-key atmosphere of Appalachian State and am proud to be an educator from there. I could not imagine a better experience in preparing me for teaching. My only regret was having to graduate and leave.
Lauren
10/02/2024
I have a very positive opinion of Appalachian State University. What stands out to me is its strong sense of community and its commitment to inclusivity. The university’s location in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains provides an inspiring environment for students, where the connection between nature and learning feels meaningful. Appalachian State’s focus on sustainability and environmental awareness aligns with my values, and I appreciate how the campus fosters a culture of responsibility and care for the world around us.
App State’s reputation for academic excellence is also impressive, especially in education, a field I am passionate about. The university’s dedication to preparing future educators resonates with my own goals of becoming a teacher who creates inclusive, empowering learning spaces for all students. I admire how Appalachian State equips its students with the skills and knowledge to make a positive impact in their communities.
Additionally, the university’s commitment to diversity and supporting underrepresented students makes it a welcoming place for someone like me, who identifies as queer, genderfluid, and neurodivergent. Appalachian State’s efforts to ensure that all students feel safe, respected, and valued are essential to fostering an inclusive academic environment.
Overall, I view Appalachian State University as a place that not only promotes academic success but also personal growth, leadership, and community involvement. It’s a university where students can thrive both inside and outside the classroom, and I see it as a great place to pursue higher education.
ila
09/24/2024
I love the fact that App State is a big inclusive school. You can go to different shops and be able to have different friend groups. It is a great school for getting out there and being yourself without great judgement. It also is in a beautiful place where you can go and clear your head if needed.
Tiffany
04/25/2024
I have really enjoyed my first year at Appalachian State University. I am really looking forward to the upcoming year.
Zan
03/22/2024
I hold Appalachian State University in high regard and would enthusiastically recommend it to anyone seeking a comprehensive and fulfilling college experience. Situated in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains of Boone, North Carolina, Appalachian State provides a unique combination of academic rigor, a supportive community atmosphere, and a deep commitment to sustainability. My impression of Appalachian State is that it's a place where students can thrive academically and personally. The university's wide array of academic programs caters to diverse interests and career ambitions, offering a solid educational foundation alongside practical experiences through internships and community engagement. The sense of community at Appalachian State is particularly striking. The inclusive and supportive campus environment is conducive to personal growth and learning, creating a welcoming atmosphere for students from all walks of life. Moreover, the university's dedication to environmental sustainability is evident across campus, aligning with my values and underscoring the importance of responsible stewardship of our planet. As someone who appreciates the great outdoors, the location of Appalachian State is a significant draw. The opportunity to engage in various outdoor activities like hiking and skiing, amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Appalachian Mountains, adds an invaluable dimension to the student experience, promoting a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Ryley
03/15/2024
My time spent at App State was so so special to me. I chose to go to school there for the education, the community, and the amazing mountain culture. Reflecting on my time at App State, I achieved and got to experience all of those things and more! One of the biggest draws to App State for me was the community on campus and surrounding campus. I immediately felt at home and the people there are so welcoming. I was able to meet some of my best friends, make connections with classmates, and really get to know my professors. The education at App State is amazing! I loved my courses, my professors were great, and I was a big fan of the class size. My classes freshman year never exceeded 200 students and in my last semester at App my class size was around 25 students. This created a more intentional and collaborative academic environment. Appalachian State also provides you with so many resources while you are completing your undergraduate degree but also goes above and beyond to set you up well for post-grad life. The mountains, town, and activities in Boone were an added bonus! I was able to enjoy being outdoors, I was surrounded by mountains on my walks to class, and I truly got to experience every season. I could go on and on about my opinion on App State and my experience there!
Nick
12/02/2023
It's a great school that provides the opportunities to accomplish what you want. The weather is great and there's lots to do outdoors up here. The school is quite understanding for anything all around. The athletics department needs to do a better job of providing opportunities for students to become student athletes for every sport especially basketball. The coaching staff and athletic staff need to do a better job of getting in touch with students so that they can have a fair chance to prove themselves and earn a spot on any sports team.
michaela
02/22/2023
I love it, it is a great community where everyone is o friendly and nice. And there is a gorgeous setting right herein Appalachia. The education students receive here is one of the best with a medium class size so you can ask questions but are not over powered by a storm of other people.
Ava
11/23/2022
Appalachian State University has something for everybody. As many know, it is one of the top schools in the country for anyone wanting to go into Education, and there a hundreds of other programs of study that are just as incredible. Us Mountaineers live for our football, and the gameday atmosphere here in Boone is unbeatable. As with any other school, App has its things it could work on. Dining hall food is not the best, and it can be difficult to break into friend groups that come here together from high school. However, there are thousands of new people attending every single year, so you always have the chance to make new friends.
Allyson
07/08/2022
I’m a campus visitor but I loved the environment when I went to visit and it’s such a beautiful place. There seem to be lots of opportunities and extracurricular activities that you can do. The price of this college is very nice and it even included textbooks! I can’t wait to go here!
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Appalachian State University is 68%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
Thus far in my college experience, I've been overcome with the realization of responsibilty while living on your own. I've had to learn to balance my time between school and play. It's been challenging, but i've already learned my valueable lessons, even outside the class room. I've learned how to live/deal with others. I've learned that it's ok to switch your major up, this time is for me to figure out what I'll be doing for the rest of my life, or at least have a general idea. There is no rush to automatically know exactly where i'll be in the next 10 years. I've learned to be spontanious and just roll with what pops up in my life. Patience is an attruibute that I am beginning to form. I've learned that life is not all about you. Other students are here going to college to further their learning too, it's ok to compliment your classmates, and let them know that they are doing a great job at what they do. College is an adventure that we're all apart of. I have learned a lot.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
The worst thing about my school, boy that's a hard one. Nothing I can say except I've heard that last year the snow was unbearable and brought things to a stand still for the first time in many years. I like the snow but not on that level. I hope this year will not be as bad.
Our school is best known for our fantastic football team, great mountains for skiing, and excellent academics. I love the location of our university because it has some of the best places for sight seeing in the United States. The professors here are amazing and are always encouraging and willing to help in every way possible. The campus facilities are beautiful and this campus is definitely what I envisioned when I thought about college during my younger years.
What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?
I wish I had known how difficult it can be to adjust every few hours to different teaching styles. You may have one professor that lectures the entire time and your next professor may have class discussions and projects. You might even have an instructor who has class discussions and projects online, so the class only meets a few times during the semester. It can get pretty tricky keeping your mind in order at first, but it keeps you on your toes at the same time.
Someone who is open to learn about new people and activities should attend Appalachian State University. Everyone here is part of a giant family so we all feel welcome. Someone who is good at interacting with other people should definitely apply here, as well.
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
The friendliness of the campus, is unlike any other campus I've ever been on. After touring many of the state schools like NC State, UNC, and UNCG, I fell in love with Appalachian. I don't go through a single day of school without someone holding the door for me, or saying "bless you" when I sneeze. Outside of polite gestures, its just a very unthreatening environment. No one is stared at because of their appearance, or if they decide to start dancing alone in the middle of Sanford Mall. If anything you usually gain an interested audience!
Appalachian State University offers something for everyone. The athelete, the artist, the partier, etc...everyone has something to do. Shopping, skiing, football, basketball, studying, hiking, etc...something to do for everyone. Within 25 miles you go from the mountains to a city and all the things to go and do.
What kind of person should not attend this school?
Someone who doesn't appreciate nature. Appalachian is a beautiful campus and should be admired for its natural beauty. If someone cannot appreciate the majesty of the mountains, they should not attend Appalachian State University.
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
Honestly its walking to class in the snow. Having late classes I can barely see and I'm rushing, trying not to fall, back up the hill so I can get to my dorm where its warm.
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?
How Green our school is, when it comes to the enviornment we are one of the best schools I know. I also brag about our football team. We are the 3 time winning NCAA national champions and we are one our way four our fourth in a row. Our team beat Michigan State University. Wealso have a great music program.
Relatively small class sizes, so you get more personal attention. The programs are a joke, general education is stupid (so says the faculty) and it's very laid back. Not a place for very serious students.
What are the most popular student activities/groups?
I don't think there is one group that is really more popular than another. Everything has its following and fandom, but they are all about equal. Obviously sporting events are huge (it is the south after all!).
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?
There are the stoners there, but in my opinion theres just as many at Appalachian than any other big school. Also, I heard how nice the people were here, and that I have found to be 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} true. Something about these mountain people and their way of life make it a great place to live!
Is the stereotype of students at your school accurate?
To a degree, yes. Cut to the chase, my freshman year, I had just moved in and a couple days later I see guys out at a picnic with a bong. And there's been a number of drugs busts on campus and in the apartments nearby in the past year.
As for outdoors, I believe this is pretty accurate in the sense that the school focuses more on that area than anything else.
Personally, I could care less about football here.
Football football football. Yay, we beat Michigan 4 years ago. You'd think the world was going to end. But now lets spend millions of tution and fee money to upgrade stadiums and jump to a different division. Clearly these people never considered big fish little pond vs. little fish big pond situations.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
68% of students attending Appalachian State University receive some sort of financial aid.
27% were awarded federal grants.48%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.