About North Carolina Central University

Founded in 1910, North Carolina Central 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 6,283 full time undergraduate students, and 1,811 full time graduate students.

The North Carolina Central University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 16:1. There are 386 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at North Carolina Central University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.

Quick Facts

Acceptance Rate66%
Application Deadline
Application Fee40
SAT Range810-940
ACT Range17-19

Admissions at NCCU are considered Selective, with ,51% of all applicants being admitted.

In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 13 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.

60% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 20% were in the top quarter, and 6% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.

STUDENT LIFE Reviews

We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at North Carolina Central University.

0%
“We”re apathetic”
9%
“We know about current events and vote”
82%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
9%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
2%
“We save it for the classroom”
22%
“Sometimes, but not often”
47%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
29%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
16%
“I only go out in groups”
60%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
24%
“I feel extremely safe”
4%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
18%
“We bought the gear”
78%
“We live for the big game”
4%
“It”s not really our thing”
13%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
67%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
16%
“We”re a very artistic group”
11%
“Haven”t met them”
4%
“Available in class”
60%
“They keep regular office hours”
24%
“They”re always available”
0%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
9%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
78%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
13%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
11%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
45%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
25%
“We only party on weekends”
18%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
31%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
42%
“There might be people who do”
20%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
7%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
0%
“We”re apathetic”
9%
“We know about current events and vote”
82%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
9%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
2%
“We save it for the classroom”
22%
“Sometimes, but not often”
47%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
29%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
16%
“I only go out in groups”
60%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
24%
“I feel extremely safe”
4%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
18%
“We bought the gear”
78%
“We live for the big game”
4%
“It”s not really our thing”
13%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
67%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
16%
“We”re a very artistic group”
11%
“Haven”t met them”
4%
“Available in class”
60%
“They keep regular office hours”
24%
“They”re always available”
0%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
9%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
78%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
13%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
11%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
45%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
25%
“We only party on weekends”
18%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
31%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
42%
“There might be people who do”
20%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
7%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
Write a review, Enter to win $1,000 Scholarship
  • How would you rate on-campus housing?

    114 Students rated on-campus housing 3.2 stars. 15 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate off-campus housing?

    86 Students rated off-campus housing 3.5 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate campus food?

    116 Students rated campus food 3.3 stars. 19 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate campus facilities?

    120 Students rated campus facilities 3.8 stars. 25 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate class size?

    121 Students rated class size 4.2 stars. 40 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate school activities?

    120 Students rated school activities 4.1 stars. 43 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate local services?

    119 Students rated local services 3.9 stars. 35 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate academics?

    120 Students rated academics 3.9 stars. 39 % gave the school a 5.0.

North Carolina Central University REVIEWS

What's your overall opinion of North Carolina Central University?

60 Students rated North Carolina Central University

Nikima - 03/14/2025

As a current student at North Carolina Central University (NCCU), I have mixed opinions regarding my experiences thus far. After almost finishing one academic year, I would give the university a solid 3 out of 5. There are certain features of the school that I value, but there are other areas that require major work. The living circumstances have been one of the most difficult aspects of my experience. The dorms are in poor condition, and upkeep is frequently neglected. I've also observed a lack of contact from the administration, particularly with major updates or adjustments. As a student, it can be irritating when material appears to be delayed or poorly presented. In terms of money, I feel that the school's resources are not being exploited to their full potential. There are moments when it appears like the money invested is not going toward improving the student experience or campus facilities, which is disappointing. On the plus side, the classes are typically adequate, and the food selections are better than I anticipated. The activities planned on campus are generally fun, however they might be more regular and varied. The majority of the kids I've met with have been kind and open, but like with any group, there are others that are more isolated. The campus setting is not the safest, and while I do not feel continuously threatened, there are certain issues that should be addressed to make the place seem more secure. Overall, NCCU has certain advantages, but there is still much need for development in terms of facilities, communication, and safety.

Jade - 02/10/2025

North Carolina Central University (NCCU) embodies the spirit of resilience, culture, and academic ambition that drew me to an HBCU in the first place. The rich history and sense of community make NCCU feel like home, and while I believe there are always areas for improvement, I appreciate the strides the university is making—especially in my department. COVID presented challenges, but I can see the effort to rebuild engagement and create more opportunities for students. Academically, NCCU provides a solid foundation, and I’ve had professors who are truly invested in student success. The energy on campus may ebb and flow, but the pride and legacy of NCCU remain strong. I chose this university because I wanted to be surrounded by Black excellence, and that’s exactly what I found. As NCCU continues to grow, I look forward to contributing to its legacy and taking full advantage of the opportunities it offers.

syniah - 02/06/2025

North Carolina Central University (NCCU) is a historically black university (HBCU) located in Durham, North Carolina. It's known for its strong academic programs, particularly in areas like law, business, education, and public health. The university has a reputation for producing leaders who make a positive impact in their communities and industries, often emphasizing social justice, leadership, and empowerment. NCCU has a rich history and plays an important role in offering accessible higher education, especially to Black students, which aligns with the mission of many HBCUs. The campus culture is often described as vibrant and supportive, with a close-knit community. It has a reputation for offering students a sense of pride, with active student organizations, Greek life, and a focus on mentorship. Overall, many people view NCCU positively, especially when considering its impact on Black education and its commitment to fostering academic success and social responsibility.

Altamir - 09/08/2024

I wanna go to NJCU because first of all it’s really close to home this means I can visit my family at anytime. Another reason I wanna go there is because they have sports management and sports communication. All the schools that I have picked have sports management as a major and this is the main reason that I wanted to attend the college. Another reason that I wanna go to this school is because the acceptance rate is about 90% which is really good to me. This school seems like a really good school and other people seem to agree to me. I had went online and look at the reviews that the school had and they were really good and that people said that the college was a really good experience and that they would go again. They also have communication and media studies which is something that I am really interested in. I really wanted to learn media studies because I’m always on my phone and I wanted to learn about the media that I am always on my phone. And one more reason that I would want to go is because the environment also seems nice.

Eryn - 08/01/2024

I think North Carolina Central University (NCCU) is an excellent institution, especially for someone pursuing a career in social work. The university has a strong focus on community engagement and social justice, which aligns well with my own values and goals. NCCU's programs are designed to provide students with practical experience and a solid academic foundation, which I find very appealing. The campus culture seems vibrant and supportive, fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration among students. I've heard great things about the faculty and their dedication to student success. The resources and opportunities available, such as internships and community service projects, are impressive and would be incredibly beneficial for my professional development. Overall, I see NCCU as a place where I could thrive academically and personally, surrounded by like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact in their communities.

JaNiyah - 06/27/2024

As an upcoming Freshman who has visited twice and completed my Freshman Orientation, I think it is one big family where you can receive lots of support both academically and personally. There are over 120 clubs on campus and specialty housing for different groups of people like homosexuals, mentally challenged, sports, family housing; there is a place for everyone to feel comfortable and fit in.

Kaleb - 04/04/2024

The school I would thought of it to be. I will be attending it and my family went there and the culture of being a HBCU is a blessing. All access black school and nothing much like it. Very excited and smooth, outgoing culture that im interested in attending. To be apart of a culture where I'm excepted and just can be me without no bias entities really helps and I approve of more people to come to the school. Yes it can be a party school but most schools is like that. The partying becomes easier when you make it easier on yourself to live and learn the school in the classroom and outside of it.

Briana - 01/04/2023

It feels very safe like home. This school has changed my life, true HBCU culture and there has been plenty of improvements. We have over 7 dorm buildings, and plenty of on campus food places such as Panera Bread, Pizza Hut, Subway, Chic Fil A, Freshens and more to come!

Aniaya - 06/22/2022

African-Americans and teenagers who want to make a living and be successful most times agree that they have much to gain by earning a college degree. Most would also agree that being at an HBCU is much more easier and challenging. HBCUs have continually been established to give African-Americans an education as they could not attend other institutions due to segregation laws back in the early 18-1900s. Being at the illustrious North Carolina Central University my opinion this institution is a very family-oriented and calming institution. This University offers a variety of organizations and even gives you a chance to make your own if you feel that there is no organization for you to join. North Carolina Central has an environment that fosters and advertise for better academic achievements and social adjustments, They give the chance for Black African Americans from disadvantaged backgrounds, personalities, religion, and more an opportunity to be who they want and give them a chance to be successful. In my opinion, I believe that this institution is one of the best.

Taniyah - 03/08/2022

The administration and staff are only there for the money. They do not care about the students. They never do their jobs and there has been too many incidents where money has been stolen for personal use. This isn’t a school to attend if you’re really serious about your education. There’s no help for you at all.

Terrence - 06/11/2020

NCCU is a great school for people to find themselves and figure out they are. The school size is terrific, the sports atmosphere is outstanding and location of the school is near fun sites in Durham, NC. I am a transfer student and this will be my first year there, but growing up I had been on campus on numerous occasions as well the city of Durham very often.

Jahmelah - 04/12/2020

I believe NCCU has a great learning environment and I recommend the school to anyone. NCCU also has a great family vibe. What I mean by this is that the students and staff support each other. They all seem to make sure that one another is doing well and are on top of their work while also being able to enjoy and have fun.

Trinity - 03/30/2020

My experience at North Carolina Central University has been an uphill battle. The campus is built on a bunch of hills which makes getting around the relatively small campus slightly difficult. The majority of the students here smoke weed regularly and come to class with the smell radiating through the room. A lot of professors do not challenge the students academically because students tend to complain about the work. However, the science, math, law, and nursing departments are particularly very good for those who attend in terms of professors, classes, and resources. As a student here, I am transferring out of NCCU for the fall 2020 semester and so on.

Jordan - 03/21/2020

NCCU is my dream university to go there. The illustrious North Carolina Central University is an esteemed historically black college university that roots itself in Truth & Service. The campus is beautiful, the education is excellent, and the sporting and social events are fun & exciting. Likewise, NCCU continuously works to improve on their technology & efforts to enhance the student experience. I love my HBCU! They are very understanding when it comes to life situations. They welcomed me back and allowed me to show them that I can progress in being me and making myself proud! My professors are fantastic. The football team is incredible, excellent dining services, and great activities! Overall, this school is the place to be!

Kennedi - 03/06/2020

North Carolina Central University is a great school, I'm not saying this because I go here. The atmosphere is amazing and every time you walk past someone they greet you like they have known you for years. The staff really cares about there students and the grades that their students get. The housing is as best as it can get since this is college, there are ups and downs but you will get past it. Greek life and student activity board are a big part of everyday life on campus The food is great at the time but also bad at times but its college, not a home-cooked meal. In the end I'm proud to say that I'm Eagle woot woot eagle pride!!!!!!!

North Carolina Central University FAQS

  1. What is the Acceptance Rate at North Carolina Central University?

    The fall 2020 acceptance rate for North Carolina Central University is 66%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.

  2. What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

    If I could go back in time I would tell myself first and foremost stay focused, leave the boys alone for a year, and be very observant of the people you call friends. Stay focused because grades are the most important thing in achieving all of your goals in the future. As long as you keep your grades up you will not have any worries so if in the future you want to go to graduate school or join a sorority you won't have to think twice about it. Second leave the boys alone they are nothing but trouble and stress in your young life. Your too pretty to be tied down anyway. The time will come when its right for you and your mature enough to handle a relationship and a 3.75 gpa. And last be observant of who you call your friends. It is so important to have a support system being a freshman. That is why you must make sure your support system has your best interest at heart. A real friend will never put you down in front of others to make themselves feel better. They'll uplift you just like you do them.

    Read all 110 answers
  3. What's unique about your campus?

    Academically the school has reliable resources for the students to gain access towards school work. The professors are very friendly, and allow students to be able to discuss current issues related to our assignments. We have to ability to think about things that can allow us to express ourselves in class.

    Read all 24 answers
  4. Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!

    NCCU has one of the top Nursing programs. That is amaizng to me. Also I beleive that everyone is a family here. We have so much fun when we come together. People are here just for you, just for you to have friened. We are not just a HBCU, but we are a community. We have amazing school pride. I think we are an awesome school.

    Read all 23 answers
  5. What's the most frustrating thing about your school?

    I really can't afford being here

    Read all 22 answers
  6. What kind of person should not attend this school?

    A person who is jus t going to play around. Aperson who doesn't like small classes or a small college.

    Read all 21 answers
  7. Describe the students at your school.

    My classmates are very interactive.

    Read all 20 answers
  8. What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?

    Where it is located and some of the people who go there are really there for the wrong reason.

    Read all 20 answers
  9. What kind of person should attend this school?

    NCCU is for everyone. There is something to offer anyone who wants to attend. NCCU is a very diverse HBCU. The only thing that everyone has is common is that we came to get a degree.

    Read all 18 answers
  10. Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.

    Very good university but expensive to go

    Read all 17 answers
  11. Describe your favorite campus traditions.

    Intellectual. Sports.

    Read all 14 answers
  12. What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?

    The first 4 year College for African American in the United States.

    Read all 11 answers
  13. What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?

    I wish I had known about the financial struggle that I have been through while being at this school. My mother just recently went to jail and my father does not make enough to support the rest of my tuition. I am sadly struggling and I wish I would have known that all of this was going to happen. If I did, I would have signed up for the ROTC program or National Guard to pay for my schooling. "Sometimes you have to do things that you don't want to do, to get to where you need to be."

    Read all 9 answers
  14. What is your overall opinion of this school?

    One thing I would change about central that I find myself on the fence about is the location. On the one hand central is the pinnacle of the community. How many African American kids can say I lived next to or across the street from a university. But on the negative side alot of times the surrounding community affects us more than we affect them. Too often we ( the students) get emails about crime on campus involving non-nccu persons.

    Read all 2 answers
  15. What is the stereotype of students at your school?

    That everybody that goes to central is a hood rats or thugs.

    Read all 1 answers
  16. What are the most popular student activities/groups?

    NCCU is not a known for being a party school and for good reason. We manage to have our parties but they are always or for the most part in a structured environment such as a night club or the campus gym.

    Read all 1 answers
  17. What are the academics like at your school?

    We are known for having one of the best law programs in the country.

    Read all 1 answers
  18. Is the stereotype of students at your school accurate?

    Many of the people I know and are familiar with on campus come from very upstanding homes. We are a student body thats plays hard but studies harder.

    Read all 1 answers

Student Body

Students

66%

female

34%

male

6,283

Total Undergrad Enrollment

1,811

Total Grad Students

20%

Out-Of-State

79%

In-State

1%

International

Organizations

83

Student Organizations

5

Fraternities

4

Sororities

Housing

Yes

On-Campus Housing

33%

of students living on campus

Student Diversity

% American Indian/Alaskan Native
N/A
% Asian/Pacific Islander
1%
% Black or African-American
79%
% Hispanic/Latino
5%
% White or Caucasian
7%

TUITION & AID

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.

97% of students attending North Carolina Central University receive some sort of financial aid. 77% were awarded federal grants.85%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.

Cost Out of State

$18,590

Tuition and fees(Out of state)

$1,500

Books and Supplies

$9,636

Room and Board

29,726

Total On Campus

Actual Cost By Income Level(W/Financial Aid)

Family Income
Cost
$0 - $30K
$9,710
$30 - $48K
$10,999
$48 - $75K
$14,595
$75 - $110K
$17,884
$110K & UP
$18,758

We use student reviews and the most current publicly available data on our school pages. As such, we don't typically remove or edit college information. Sources for school statistics and data include the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. Portions of college data include copyrighted material, which is reproduced on this website by permission of Wintergreen Orchard House, a division of Carnegie Communications. © 2009-2016 by Wintergreen Orchard House. All rights reserved.

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