Founded in 1907, East Carolina University. is a Public college. Located in North Carolina, which is a city setting in North Carolina, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 22,969 full time undergraduate students, and 5,993 full time graduate students.
The East Carolina University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 18:1. There are 1224 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at East Carolina University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
70%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
70
SAT Range
970-1130
ACT Range
20-24
Admissions at ECU are considered Selective, with ,139% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 25 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
82% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 44% were in the top quarter, and 15% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at East Carolina University.
1%
“We”re apathetic”
29%
“We know about current events and vote”
62%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
8%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
1%
“We save it for the classroom”
24%
“Sometimes, but not often”
53%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
22%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
10%
“I only go out in groups”
50%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
40%
“I feel extremely safe”
2%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
8%
“We bought the gear”
90%
“We live for the big game”
5%
“It”s not really our thing”
19%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
61%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
15%
“We”re a very artistic group”
3%
“Haven”t met them”
2%
“Available in class”
63%
“They keep regular office hours”
33%
“They”re always available”
3%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
10%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
82%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
5%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
3%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
11%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
32%
“We only party on weekends”
54%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
10%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
55%
“There might be people who do”
33%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
3%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
1%
“We”re apathetic”
29%
“We know about current events and vote”
62%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
8%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
1%
“We save it for the classroom”
24%
“Sometimes, but not often”
53%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
22%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
10%
“I only go out in groups”
50%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
40%
“I feel extremely safe”
2%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
8%
“We bought the gear”
90%
“We live for the big game”
5%
“It”s not really our thing”
19%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
61%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
15%
“We”re a very artistic group”
3%
“Haven”t met them”
2%
“Available in class”
63%
“They keep regular office hours”
33%
“They”re always available”
3%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
10%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
82%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
5%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
252 Students rated on-campus housing 3.7 stars. 21 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
156 Students rated off-campus housing 4.1 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
264 Students rated campus food 3.6 stars. 19 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
266 Students rated campus facilities 4.2 stars. 43 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
266 Students rated class size 4 stars. 29 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
264 Students rated school activities 4.3 stars. 53 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
266 Students rated local services 4.1 stars. 44 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
265 Students rated academics 4.1 stars. 46 % gave the school a 5.0.
East Carolina University REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of East Carolina University?
152 Students rated East Carolina University
Morgan - 02/10/2025
Atmosphere: ECU is a large school that can feel small once you find your niche. It is known as a party school, but if that is not your thing, you can find groups that share your values on campus, particularly religious ones, and you will feel at home.
Education: The professors truly care about education and are willing to help outside of the classroom. Yes, there are some student teachers who might struggle with this, but those are for large gen ed classes. The professors always responded to emails within 24-48 hrs. The professors never ghosted the class and always updated us on professional conferences at the start of classes so we would have time to prepare.
Cost: Average for a public college in NC. Additionally, the school offered me a 1500 scholarship every semester I was there (I had a 3.0+ GPA). The area is also offers inexpensive off campus housing compared to other public universities in the state.
Food: There are two dining halls on both sides of campus that have a wide variety of food that will satisfy any diet. I would be careful of the burgers and eggs though, some of the cooks did not cook them well enough. There are also several fast food restaurants on campus as well. Meal plans are also decently priced for the area.
Bus (Wheelchair accessible): The college has a very active bus system during classes that any student can use. It is not active during breaks, however. The bus system covers campus and other parts of town including Walmart. It does not take long to reach both sides of campus.
Dorms (College Hill Suites): More space than a traditional dorm with a small kitchen (no oven). Had fun activities several times during the semester to meet people. Maintenance guys responded within a day, M-F. No bug issues in my dorm. Internet occasionally went down, but not for long. Water pressure was good and did not take long to heat up.
I highly recommend ECU if you are looking for great professors and generally small class sizes at an affordable price.
Haley - 10/22/2024
East Carolina University was the last college on my radar a few years ago. However, they became first when I realized they were the number one medical employer college in the state as well as the top school for my desired Doctorate in Physical Therapy. I began to fall in love with the school when I was able to experience the atmosphere of the campus and community. The energy at football games is invigorating and the beauty of the campus is impressive. There is so much to see and do with so many opportunities to succeed. For these reasons and more, ECU has my heart, and I was ecstatic to receive my acceptance letter from them to attend in the fall.
James - 10/18/2024
I personally find to be very fun, everyone I have met was really nice, I have had no issues walking around the campus or town, however there is often a ambulance to be found every once in a while. Overall the classes are welcoming the teachers are nice and intelligent. The issues I have is that they use lockdown browser and webcam and don't tell students prior which I considered to be unfair and not conducive for the education of math. Also I think the in campus housing is a bit to expensive if you expect to live there for around 4 years.
brianna - 10/16/2024
I believe ECU is a very versatile school, there's an outlet for every interest. whether it is partying or archenemies. Before coming, i had no idea it was in Greenville, I've always viewed this town as a place with nothing to do and it was rather low on my list of places to go, until i became a student and I found out what it had to offer me. Student involvement is very often up, and advertised almost daily with something to do or explore, once i began attending some of these activities, I've spent very little time in my dorm and every other day was used finding something new.
Jayla - 10/07/2024
East Carolina University (ECU) is a vibrant and diverse institution nestled in Greenville, North Carolina. It stands as a beacon of academic excellence, student-centered learning, and community engagement. As a someone who has been to the campus many of times, I find ECU to be a remarkable university that offers a wide range of opportunities for students to excel both academically and personally.
One of the key strengths of East Carolina University is its commitment to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for success in the rapidly evolving global economy. ECU offers a diverse selection of academic programs, ranging from sciences and humanities to business and health sciences. The university boasts of esteemed faculty members who are experts in their fields and are dedicated to fostering a culture of learning and innovation.
Furthermore, ECU prioritizes hands-on learning experiences through internships, research opportunities, and community service projects. These practical experiences allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings and develop crucial skills that set them apart in their future careers. The university's emphasis on experiential learning ensures that students graduate not only with academic knowledge but also with the practical skills and confidence needed to succeed in their chosen fields.
Moreover, East Carolina University fosters a sense of community and inclusivity that is truly commendable. The campus is a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and perspectives, creating a rich and dynamic environment for learning and growth. ECU values diversity and strives to create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere where students from all backgrounds feel empowered to thrive. The university offers a variety of student organizations, clubs, and events that cater to a wide range of interests, allowing students to connect with like-minded peers and engage in extracurricular activities that enrich their college experience.
In addition to its academic and extracurricular offerings, ECU takes pride in its strong commitment to community service and civic engagement. The university encourages students to give back to the community through volunteer work, service-learning projects, and outreach initiatives. By instilling a sense of social responsibility in its students, ECU not only prepares them to be successful professionals but also conscientious citizens who are dedicated to making a positive impact in the world.
In conclusion, East Carolina University is an outstanding institution that offers a holistic educational experience characterized by academic excellence, hands-on learning, inclusivity, and community engagement. I wholeheartedly recommend ECU to prospective students seeking a top-tier education in a supportive and vibrant environment. ECU truly embodies the spirit of excellence and innovation, making it a premier destination for those looking to embark on a transformative academic journey
Calysta - 10/24/2023
ECU is a fun and engaged school. Any and everything you possibly need is within walking distance and if you do need to go off campus and don't have a car, we have a transit program that will drive you around and wait for you to return from your shopping trips. The food at the dining halls is amazing and the staff is extremely friendly.
Amiyah - 07/31/2023
East Carolina is a very inclusive school that will make you feel at home! There are plenty of opportunities for students to get involved on campus, and the staff is always extremely helpful and friendly! I can definitely say that I have been enjoying my experience at ECU and would love to continue my educational journey with them!
Breyana - 11/08/2021
East Carolina University is a very welcome and comfortable environment with great student life and educational opportunities. It is very diverse and accepting of all people. The student living and extracurricular opportunities are great and there is something for everyone, and if not, you are free to start your own club or program that better fits your personal preference!
Shelby - 08/03/2021
I love ECU! I'm originally from PA and I wanted to go somewhere different for college and I found a home in Greenville. The school is so beautiful and they are improving the facilities every day. Back when we were in person, many students could be found walking around main campus and hanging out all day. It is a very social school and everyone is always so friendly. I'm so glad I chose to go here because I can't imagine myself anywhere else!
DeMeco - 07/13/2020
This is a very amazing school. Great staff, amazing peers and it also has one of the best education systems i have ever seen. Defined recommend it
Olivia - 05/12/2020
I love East carolina university, I mean of course I’m going to gloat in my college. However I truly believe it is going to be a place that will change my life. I will be attending in the fall, if everything goes to plan with COVID19. I honestly can’t wait to attend!
Sarah - 05/12/2020
I'll be honest. When I first started applying to schools, ECU was not on my list. It just seemed like they took everyone that applied and there was so much partying. I guess it kind of scared me. Then I decided I wanted to pursue the area of Nutrition/Physical Therapy. When I looked at the program outline, I realized that it was foolish to go anywhere else. So, I applied, was accepted and thoroughly enjoyed my first semester. I'm completely bummed that I didn't get to finish my second semester on campus. COVID messed that up! However, I had a great second semester as well even if it was online (which they have nailed down quite well)! I cannot wait for things to get back to normal so I can return. ECU is definitely the school for me!
Samantha - 05/07/2020
I really enjoy ECU. It feels like home there and everybody makes you feel included and they make it very easy for you to make friends. Everybody thinks that ECU is such a party school but you only make it a party school if you yourself goes out and parties and nobody pressures you to partake in anything that you do not want to do.
Olivia - 03/19/2020
I will be attending in the fall. After visiting multiple times, I am really pleased with campus life, academics, athletics, campus living, and so many other things. I cannot wait to attend next semester. My parents also love ECU due to its safe and college friendly campus, putting them at ease.
Joshua - 02/18/2020
I believe ECU is a great school and has much potential for anyone who gets the opportunity to go enroll there! Student life is great and School is always updating the campus and investing money back into the school for students to enjoy new things and have a better college life at the University.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for East Carolina University is 70%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
My advice to myself as a high school senior would be to learn good study habits now! I always thought that school was easy and that I could get by with good grades without studying. Now that I am in college, studying is key to earning excellent grades and I wish that I would have had study skills throughout high school to bring with me to college. I am still making good grades in college but am definately working much harder than I did in high school.
I like how everyone is so friendly. The biggest thing is that boys and girls are always opening and holding the doors for you. It may just be a southern thing but students here are very respectful. My RA on my floor is so nice and helpful and they have amazing breakfast in the West End Dining Hall, as well as my classes being fun and educational.
What kind of person should not attend this school?
A person that is not going to work for what they want, because when you come to college it's a new playing feild there is no time for games, you have to work on keep youself motivated.
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
What is the most unique quality that ECU has compared to other universities is that one-of-a-kind art projects that are spread across the campus, such as sculptures, the water fountain, and the library's steps that make noise when you walk up them.
What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?
I wish I had known about how easy it is to get involved in campus organizations. At the begining of fall semester there is "Get A Clue" where all the student organizations come out to the mall (the center of our campus) so that people can sign up and find out how to join.I wish I knew how easy it is to access my professors. All professors hold office hours and not only are they actially there for them but often times you find them there outside of their hours willing to help you with anything
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?
At ECU, there is no excuse not to learn. There are so many wonderful courses to take, and qualified professors to chose from. ECU offers many opportunities to be involved.. There are hundreds of clubs to chose from. There are many free events that happen weekly on campus such as movies and concerts.ECU is the least expensive university in NC. With that being said, the quality of education is excellent. Professors are accessible, tutoring is free, the campus is beautiful, financial aid is great, and the opportunities to get involved in any organization are limitless.
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
The most frustrating thing about school is the time between ending class and final exams. There is not a big break to allow review of notes for cumulative exams.
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?
The biggest stereotype of ECU students is that we are all alcoholic party-goers. This stereotype is largely untrue. In a school as big as ECU, there are bound to be many many students who do fit this mold, but in comparison to other schools we are not that drunk and party-going. Any school you go to will have a party/downtown scene; and while ECU's is large, it is not disproportionately large.
Every professor I've ever had always made an attempt to remember names in the class. Most students study very often. There are hardly ever any study rooms available in the library. Class participation is very common. Teachers like when you participate. Some even give extra credit for it.
East Carolina University is rank in the national college database of one of the top school in best teaching major. I would like to attend this school because I have study and done alot of research on my major and program of study and i found they have excellent teacher and instructer. I am looking for the best education with a great prencentage rate in those who graduate from ECU.
Most of the professors are dedicated and easy to contact and communicate with. They generally are empathetic to student problems and are willing to meet in the middle if you have a problem.
What is the stereotype of students at your school?
The common stereotype of the students at my school is that the students party all the time and have unprotected sex. Also that they are involved with illegal activities such as smoking marijuana and drinking underage. East Carolina University has the reputation of being a "party" school and is nicknamed EasyU off of the acronym E.C.U.
Sports are a big thing here, even though in my opinion our teams are not extremely good at them, that doesn't stop any pirate fan from cheering. Football is the most exciting season. Tailgating starts hours before the game and the thick smell of barbecue in the air. Fans go as far as dressing up as Captain Jack Sparrow to show their pride. It is a real exciting time of the year and interesting to watch. Only Men's basketball and football get much notice.
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.
75% of students attending East Carolina University receive some sort of financial aid.
32% were awarded federal grants.61%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.
