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Top 30 North Carolina Scholarships in September 2023
Are you a student in the great state of North Carolina? Perhaps you are from another state, but want to attend school in the Tar Heel state? If so, you should fund your college or graduate school education with some of the top North Carolina scholarships! These scholarships include awards from private organizations as well as merit scholarships from the top NC institutions of higher education. Keep on reading to learn more about these top NC scholarships including award amounts, eligibility requirements, and deadlines!
$10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship
Offered by Scholarships360
The Scholarships360 $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is open to all students who want some extra help paying for their education. Whether you are a high…
The Scholarships360 $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is open to all students who want some extra help paying for their education. Whether you are a high…
The Scholarships360 $10,000 “No Essay” Scholarship is open to all students who want some extra help paying for their education. Whether you are a high school student who hopes to go to college, a graduate student who’s in a master’s program, or an adult learner who wants to return to school, you are eligible for our no essay scholarship. This scholarship will be awarded to students who get the most out of Scholarships360 scholarships and content. You will be a strong applicant if you apply to scholarships with the Scholarships360 platform. Finalists for this scholarship will be interviewed about their process for funding their education.
Eligibility information
Grade Level: All Grade Levels
Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents
Minimum GPA: No GPA requirement
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
Easy scholarship open to all high school and college students, as well as anyone looking to attend college or graduate school in the next year.
Easy scholarship open to all high school and college students, as well as anyone looking to attend college or graduate school in the next year.
Easy scholarship open to all high school and college students, as well as anyone looking to attend college or graduate school in the next year.
Eligibility information
Grade Level: All Grade Levels
Citizenship: US Citizens, Canadian Citizens, Permanent Residents, DACA, Other
Minimum GPA: No GPA requirement
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
Sallie Mae will award $2,000 each month to eligible entrants. No essay or account sign-ups, just a simple scholarship for those seeking help paying for…
Sallie Mae will award $2,000 each month to eligible entrants. No essay or account sign-ups, just a simple scholarship for those seeking help paying for…
Sallie Mae will award $2,000 each month to eligible entrants. No essay or account sign-ups, just a simple scholarship for those seeking help paying for school.
Eligibility information
Grade Level: HS Upperclassmen, College & Graduate Students
Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents, DACA
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
Open to high school students, college students, community college students, and graduate students.
Open to high school students, college students, community college students, and graduate students.
Open to high school students, college students, community college students, and graduate students.
Eligibility information
Grade Level: All Grade Levels
Minimum GPA: No GPA requirement
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
Greenhouse Scholars Program
Offered by Greenhouse Scholars
Are you a college-bound, high school senior passionate about helping your community? If so, consider applying for the Greenhouse Scholars Program! The program is open…
Are you a college-bound, high school senior passionate about helping your community? If so, consider applying for the Greenhouse Scholars Program! The program is open…
Are you a college-bound, high school senior passionate about helping your community? If so, consider applying for the Greenhouse Scholars Program! The program is open to residents of Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, New York, and North Carolina planning to attend a four-year university. It is offered by Greenhouse Scholars, is a non-profit organization that seeks to empower young students by providing "personal, professional, and financial resources they need to create lasting change in their own lives and the lives of others, regardless of circumstances." By funding young students' educations, they hope to cultivate leaders and make a difference in communities across the nation. Recipients of the award receive up to $5,000 to help pay for their educational expenses. If this sounds like a good opportunity for you, we encourage you to apply!
Eligibility information
Grade Level: High School Senior
Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents
Minimum GPA: 3.5
Other Category: Low Income
State: California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, New York, North Carolina
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
ASHRAE Region IV Benny Bootle Scholarship
Offered by American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers, Inc.
The ASHRAE Region IV Benny Bootle Scholarship is a one-year scholarship available annually to a qualified student attending a post-secondary educational institution within the geographic…
The ASHRAE Region IV Benny Bootle Scholarship is a one-year scholarship available annually to a qualified student attending a post-secondary educational institution within the geographic…
The ASHRAE Region IV Benny Bootle Scholarship is a one-year scholarship available annually to a qualified student attending a post-secondary educational institution within the geographic boundaries of ASHRAE Region IV (North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia). Applicants must be engineering or pre-engineering students pursuing a degree in a course of study that has traditionally been a preparatory curriculum for the HVAC&R profession and have a class standing of no less than the top 30 percent. In addition, applicants must meet at least one of the following criteria: be enrolled in an institution with an active ASHRAE Student Branch, or be in a program accredited by ABET or the Consejo de Acreditacion de la Ensenanza de la Ingenieria (CACEI). Keep on reading to learn more!
Eligibility information
Grade Level: College Students
Minimum GPA: 3.0
Academic Interest: Architecture, Engineering, HVAC Mechanics
State: Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
ASHRAE James R. Bullock Scholarship
Offered by American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers, Inc.
The ASHRAE James R. Bullock Scholarship is a one-year scholarship available annually to a qualified undergraduate mechanical or architectural engineering student attending a post-secondary educational…
The ASHRAE James R. Bullock Scholarship is a one-year scholarship available annually to a qualified undergraduate mechanical or architectural engineering student attending a post-secondary educational…
The ASHRAE James R. Bullock Scholarship is a one-year scholarship available annually to a qualified undergraduate mechanical or architectural engineering student attending a post-secondary educational institution within the geographic boundaries of ASHRAE Region IV or who has graduated from a high school in Region IV (North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia). Applicants must be engineering or pre-engineering students pursuing a degree in a course of study that has traditionally been a preparatory curriculum for the HVAC&R profession and have a class standing of no less than the top 30 percent. In addition, applicants must meet at least one of the following criteria: be enrolled in an institution with an active ASHRAE Student Branch, or be in a program accredited by ABET or the Consejo de Acreditacion de la Ensenanza de la Ingenieria (CACEI). Keep on reading to learn more!
Eligibility information
Grade Level: College Students
Minimum GPA: 3.0
Academic Interest: Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, HVAC Mechanics
State: Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
The Vickie Drum Memorial Scholarship was established in honor of a remarkable woman who overcame the challenges of being a mother while pursuing her college…
The Vickie Drum Memorial Scholarship was established in honor of a remarkable woman who overcame the challenges of being a mother while pursuing her college…
The Vickie Drum Memorial Scholarship was established in honor of a remarkable woman who overcame the challenges of being a mother while pursuing her college education, and who serves as an inspiration to many. Her story resonates with countless young mothers who aspire to improve their lives through higher education. However, the financial burden of attending college can be overwhelming for these individuals. In honor of Vickie Drum's legacy, this scholarship aims to support female students in North Carolina who are raising a child while pursuing an undergraduate degree. Eligible applicants must meet this criterion and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. To apply, share your unique journey through higher education as a parent and how it has shaped your path. This scholarship is an opportunity to not only honor Vickie Drum's memory but also empower mothers to achieve their educational goals and create a brighter future for themselves and their families.
Eligibility information
Grade Level: College Students
Minimum GPA: 3.0
Other Category: Adult, Women, Parent
State: North Carolina
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
Sunshine Opportunity Scholarship
Offered by Godbold Foundation
The Sunshine Opportunity Scholarships offered by the Godbold Foundation are intended to help high-achieving students with financial need to afford to pay for college. The…
The Sunshine Opportunity Scholarships offered by the Godbold Foundation are intended to help high-achieving students with financial need to afford to pay for college. The…
The Sunshine Opportunity Scholarships offered by the Godbold Foundation are intended to help high-achieving students with financial need to afford to pay for college. The scholarship is awarded to up to 10 students per year and is worth $25,000 over four years of in-state undergraduate studies at public universities in Florida, South Carolina and North Carolina. Applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher, must have overcome significant obstacles in life and must attend public or private high schools in specific geographic areas of Florida, South Carolina and North Carolina: the counties of Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco in the Tampa Bay area of Florida; the cities of Florence and Marion in South Carolina, and the county of Avery in North Carolina. To maintain the scholarship, undergraduates must be enrolled full-time and remain in good academic standing. The application cycle runs from December 1 to March 2nd every year. If you fit these eligibility criteria, we encourage you to apply! Keep on reading to learn more.
Eligibility information
Grade Level: High School Senior
Minimum GPA: 3.0
Academic Interest: Real Estate
State: Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
Business and Professional Women of the Triangle Scholarships
Offered by Business and Professional Women/Triangle
The Business and Professional Women of the Triangle Scholarships are open to North Carolina women currently enrolled (full- or part-time) at an accredited college, university,…
The Business and Professional Women of the Triangle Scholarships are open to North Carolina women currently enrolled (full- or part-time) at an accredited college, university,…
The Business and Professional Women of the Triangle Scholarships are open to North Carolina women currently enrolled (full- or part-time) at an accredited college, university, or institution of higher education within the United States. Applicants should have a permanent address in North Carolina counties of Wake, Durham, Orange, Chatham or Johnston, but may attend school outside these areas. If you're a North Carolinian woman passionate about pursuing your higher education, we encourage you to apply! Keep on reading to learn more.
Eligibility information
Grade Level: College Students
Minimum GPA: 2.5
Other Category: Women
State: North Carolina
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
North Carolina Sheriffs’ Association Undergraduate Criminal Justice Scholarship
Offered by North Carolina Sheriffs' Association
The Criminal Justice Scholarship Program was established by the North Carolina Sheriffs' Association to assist students who are dependents of law enforcement officials or who…
The Criminal Justice Scholarship Program was established by the North Carolina Sheriffs' Association to assist students who are dependents of law enforcement officials or who…
The Criminal Justice Scholarship Program was established by the North Carolina Sheriffs' Association to assist students who are dependents of law enforcement officials or who are studying in the criminal justice field and express an interest in pursuing a career in law enforcement. Applicants must be North Carolina residents enrolled for a minimum of 12 credit hours in an undergraduate degree granting criminal justice program at one of the institutions of The University of North Carolina or the North Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities. To apply, students must receive a recommendation from their local sheriff and complete and submit an application. If you're a North Carolinian with a passion for keeping the public safe, we encourage you to apply. Keep on reading to learn more!
Eligibility information
Grade Level: College Students
Academic Interest: Law Enforcement, Criminal Justice
State: North Carolina
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
Gordon Hay Scholarship Fund
Offered by Blumenthal Performing Arts
Are you a Charlotte, NC-area high school senior, college freshman, or college sophomore planning to pursue a non-performing career in theater? If so, you might…
Are you a Charlotte, NC-area high school senior, college freshman, or college sophomore planning to pursue a non-performing career in theater? If so, you might…
Are you a Charlotte, NC-area high school senior, college freshman, or college sophomore planning to pursue a non-performing career in theater? If so, you might consider applying for the Gordon Hay Scholarship! This scholarship is open to students who exemplify a strong pursuit of personal excellence, exhibit commitment to community engagement, demonstrate artistic or technical accomplishment, and have a record of scholarly achievement. Eligible non-performance areas of theater include (but are not limited to): play writing; set, costume, lighting, or sound design; arts administration; stage management; production management; technical direction. While the scholarship is merit-based scholarship, preference may be shown to a student with financial need. If you're a student from the Carolinas with a passion for the non-performance areas of theater, we encourage you to apply! Keep on reading to learn more.
Eligibility information
Grade Level: High School Seniors & College Underclassmen
Citizenship: Permanent Residents
Minimum GPA: No GPA requirement
Academic Interest: Visual & Performing Arts, Fashion Design, Film/Video Production
State: North Carolina, South Carolina
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
Colonel Kathleen Swacina Scholarship
Offered by Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association
Are you a female college student pursuing a STEM major who has served in the U.S. armed forces or are enrolled in an ROTC program?…
Are you a female college student pursuing a STEM major who has served in the U.S. armed forces or are enrolled in an ROTC program?…
Are you a female college student pursuing a STEM major who has served in the U.S. armed forces or are enrolled in an ROTC program? If so, you may be eligible for the Colonel Kathleen Swacina Scholarship! The scholarship is open to female college STEM majors who are current or former members of the U.S. Armed Forces, are in ROTC programs, or descend from veterans or AFCEA members. The program is offered by the Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA), a nonprofit membership association that seeks to provide a forum for the "ethical exchange of information." This scholarship honors Colonel Kathleen Swacina and her accomplishments with the AFCEA to support the community and support students who persevere when faced with adversity. Every year, one applicant receives a $1,500 scholarship to use towards their education. If you are passionate about STEM and have a personal connection to the Armed forces, we encourage you to apply!
Eligibility information
Grade Level: College Sophomore, College Junior & Graduate Student
Citizenship: US Citizens
Minimum GPA: 2.8
Academic Interest: Computer Science, Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Biology
Other Category: Veteran, ROTC, Women
State: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
Sidney B. Meadows Scholarship
Offered by Southern Nursery Association
The Sidney B. Meadows Scholarship Endowment Fund is offered to students enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate ornamental horticulture program or related discipline at…
The Sidney B. Meadows Scholarship Endowment Fund is offered to students enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate ornamental horticulture program or related discipline at…
The Sidney B. Meadows Scholarship Endowment Fund is offered to students enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate ornamental horticulture program or related discipline at a four-year institution, must be currently enrolled in good standing and must carry a full-time compliment of courses at time of application and during the semester the scholarship is granted. Also, student must be in a junior or senior standing at time of application in a four-year curriculum (having completed the first two years and at least two horticulture courses) or a graduate student standing in a horticultural masters or doctoral program.
Eligibility information
Grade Level: College Upperclassmen & Graduate Students
Citizenship: US Citizens
Academic Interest: Horticulture/Floriculture
State: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
Charlotte Pride Scholarship Program
Offered by Charlotte Pride
Are you an LGBTQ+ individual or ally from the Charlotte metro area who’s currently (or will soon be) attending college? Further, have you served the…
Are you an LGBTQ+ individual or ally from the Charlotte metro area who’s currently (or will soon be) attending college? Further, have you served the…
Are you an LGBTQ+ individual or ally from the Charlotte metro area who’s currently (or will soon be) attending college? Further, have you served the LGBTQ+ community either through community service or activism? If so, consider applying for the Charlotte Pride Scholarship Program! Each year, the scholarship provides up to $2,500 to multiple applicants who fit those criteria and demonstrate significant, unmet financial need. In order to apply, you must submit a 500 - 800 word essay (or original artwork), your SAT/ACT score, transcripts, former work/community service experiences, and any extracurricular activities. The scholarship is offered by Charlotte Pride, the leader in LGBTQ visibility in Charlotte and the Carolinas which hosts a variety of LGBTQ-related projects and activities. If this sounds like a good opportunity to you, we encourage you to apply. Your meaningful work has improved the lives of others, and now it’s time to be rewarded for it!
Eligibility information
Grade Level: High School Seniors & College Students
Minimum GPA: 3.0
Other Category: LGBTQ+
State: North Carolina
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
St. Andrew’s Society of Washington DC Founders’ Scholarship
Offered by St. Andrew's Society of Washington, DC
"St. Andrew's Society of Washington DC Founders' Scholarship" applicants must be able to cite their Scottish descent and must submit a statement of their plans…
"St. Andrew's Society of Washington DC Founders' Scholarship" applicants must be able to cite their Scottish descent and must submit a statement of their plans…
"St. Andrew's Society of Washington DC Founders' Scholarship" applicants must be able to cite their Scottish descent and must submit a statement of their plans and goals. Other criteria applied by the Scholarship Committee include an identifiable need for financial assistance, a meritorious academic record, and an indication that the proposed course of study will materially contribute to the applicant's intellectual development and economic independence. Special attention will be given to applicants whose work would demonstrably contribute toward enhancing knowledge of Scottish history or culture. Finalists must be willing, upon request, to make themselves available in person or by telephone for interview by the committee or its designated representative.
Eligibility information
Grade Level: College Upperclassmen & Graduate Students
Citizenship: US Citizens, Other
State: Washington Dc, Delaware, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
Smartwool Scholarship
Offered by United Negro College Fund
The Smartwool Scholarship will provide scholarships to students attending an HBCU in North Carolina or Tennessee. All academic majors are welcome, with preference given to…
The Smartwool Scholarship will provide scholarships to students attending an HBCU in North Carolina or Tennessee. All academic majors are welcome, with preference given to…
The Smartwool Scholarship will provide scholarships to students attending an HBCU in North Carolina or Tennessee. All academic majors are welcome, with preference given to applicants majoring in design, fashion, finance, marketing, operations, textiles, and similar studies. Applicant must have demonstrable engagement with the outdoors.
Eligibility information
Grade Level: College Sophomores & Juniors
Citizenship: US Citizens
Minimum GPA: 2.5
Other Category: Low Income
State: North Carolina, Tennessee
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
PFLAG Greensboro Carter Stroupe Memorial Scholarship Program
Offered by PFLAG Greensboro
Are you an LGBTQ+ individual or ally who resides in Guilford, Rockingham, Randolph, or Alamance County (NC) and is planning on pursuing post-secondary education? If…
Are you an LGBTQ+ individual or ally who resides in Guilford, Rockingham, Randolph, or Alamance County (NC) and is planning on pursuing post-secondary education? If…
Are you an LGBTQ+ individual or ally who resides in Guilford, Rockingham, Randolph, or Alamance County (NC) and is planning on pursuing post-secondary education? If so, you might want to consider applying for the PFLAG Greensboro Carter Stroupe Memorial Scholarship! Dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ students and allies pay for educational expenses, the scholarship awards up to $2,000 to multiple students each year. In addition to their identity as an LGBTQ+ individual or ally, applicants must also demonstrate that they have previously served or intend to serve the LGBTQ+ community. If you fit this description and are passionate about LGBTQ+ activism, we encourage you to apply for the PFLAG Greensboro Carter Stroupe Memorial Scholarship!
Eligibility information
Grade Level: HS Seniors, College Freshmen, Sophomores & Juniors
Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents
Minimum GPA: No GPA requirement
Other Category: LGBTQ+
State: North Carolina
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
Steve Bayless Undergraduate Scholarship
Offered by Southeastern Theatre Conference
The Steve Bayless Undergraduate Scholarship is open to high school seniors who will be entering a college or university in the Southeastern Theater Conference (SETC)…
The Steve Bayless Undergraduate Scholarship is open to high school seniors who will be entering a college or university in the Southeastern Theater Conference (SETC)…
The Steve Bayless Undergraduate Scholarship is open to high school seniors who will be entering a college or university in the Southeastern Theater Conference (SETC) region to major in theater. The SETC region includes Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. If you're a college-bound student in the SETC region with a passion for theater, we encourage you to apply! Keep on reading to learn more.
Eligibility information
Grade Level: High School Senior
Academic Interest: Visual & Performing Arts
State: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
Regions Riding Forward Scholarship Contest
Offered by Regions Bank
Are you a Black, college-bound high school senior or current college student who will be enrolled in an accredited university for this upcoming academic year?…
Are you a Black, college-bound high school senior or current college student who will be enrolled in an accredited university for this upcoming academic year?…
Are you a Black, college-bound high school senior or current college student who will be enrolled in an accredited university for this upcoming academic year? If so, you may be eligible for the Regions Riding Forward Scholarship Contest! Each year, the contest awards $5,000 to the top 30 high school applicants and $3,500 to the top 30 college applicants. In order to apply, you must submit an essay (500 words or less) or a video (3 minutes or less) about a Black American individual that has inspired you and their contributions. The scholarship is offered by Regions Bank, a banking service dedicated to keeping customers first, providing tech-driven convenience, and being a strong community partner. Bear in mind that you must reside or attend a college in a state with Regions full-service branches in order to apply. To find out whether or not your state is eligible, keep on reading. If it is, we encourage you to apply!
Eligibility information
Grade Level: HS Seniors, College Freshmen, Sophomores & Juniors
Citizenship: US Citizens, Permanent Residents
Minimum GPA: 2.0
Race/Ethnicity: Black/African
Academic Interest: Film/Video Production
State: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas
Next steps
Check your eligibility through the Scholarships360 app.
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How to win North Carolina scholarships
North Carolina scholarships are sought after due to the countless prestigious universities and colleges that call North Carolina home. In order to get a leg up on the competition to win North Carolina scholarships, you should focus on what you’re passionate about while connecting back to your North Carolina roots.
For example, if you want to pursue a career in agriculture, you can discuss your fond memories of attending the local Charlotte farmer’s market and learning about the fresh raspberries from the farmers themselves. This not only ties in with your passions, but also relates back to how appealing North Carolina is as a state.
Scholarship application resources for North Carolina scholarships
As mentioned before, North Carolina scholarships may require you to write an essay about yourself which could be 250 words to 500 words. Luckily. Scholarships360 has all the resources you could need to win North Carolina scholarships! Be sure to check out our guides and well as read over the ultimate guide to finding and winning scholarships. Best of luck on your writing endeavors!
North Carolina student debt snapshot
According to the Department of Education, in total, North Carolina residents owe $49.2 billion in federal student loan debt. Student borrowers owe an average of $37,721 each (those numbers do not include private loans). Around 52.3% of loan borrowers are under the age of 35. As you are starting your higher education journey, remember that scholarships allow students to take fewer loans. Make sure that you apply to as many scholarships as you qualify for!
Keep on reading to learn more about top scholarships in North Carolina, as well as merit scholarships from colleges in North Carolina!
Merit scholarships at North Carolina colleges and universities
Davidson College
- Eligibility: High academic achievers with experiences that reflect a varied range of interests, talents and achievements and some scholarships require a nomination
- Amount: Up to full cost of attendance
- Deadline: Admission deadline
Duke University
- Eligibility: All applicants are automatically considered for Duke merit scholarships by virtue of their admissions application
- Amount: Varies
- Deadline: Admission deadline
Elon University
- Eligibility:Students are automatically considered when they apply and are selected based on their high school academic record and application essay
- Amount: $3,000 up to $13,500
- Deadline: Mid-January
North Carolina A&T State University
- Eligibility: The National Alumni Scholarship and the Louis and Elizabeth Dowdy Scholarships recognize exceptional academic talent and ability
- Amount: Up to full tuition and room and board
- Deadline: Mid-January
North Carolina State University
- Eligibility: Awarded on the basis of outstanding accomplishments and potential in scholarship, leadership, service, and character
- Amount: Up to full cost of attending
- Deadline: November 1
Salem College
- Eligibility: All admitted students are considered for scholarships and amount awarded is based on high school GPA
- Amount: $14,000 up to $20,000
- Deadline: Varies based on program
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Eligibility: Applicants are automatically considered and must have impressive academic and extracurricular achievements and show promise of engagement in the life of the University
- Amount: Up to the full cost of attending
- Deadline: Admission deadline
University of North Carolina at Asheville
- Eligibility: Academic excellence, as demonstrated by a high grade point average/scores on the SAT or ACT, interest in or passion for an academic program, extracurricular engagement
- Amount: Up to full tuition
- Deadline: Admission deadline
University of North Carolina at Wilmington
- Eligibility: When you are accepted to both UNCW and the Honors College, you are automatically considered for competitive Honors College Merit Scholarships
- Amount: $500 up to full tuition
- Deadline: November 1st to be considered for Early Action, and February 1st to be considered for Regular Decision
Wake Forest University
- Eligibility: Students with extraordinary achievement, leadership, and talent
- Amount: Up to the full cost of attending
- Deadline: Mid-November
Warren Wilson College
- Eligibility: Students who excel in academics, work, service and are admitted to the college
- Amount: $4,000 up to full tuition
- Deadline: Admission deadline
Consider in-state tuition and tuition reciprocity
In-state tuition provides students with a lower cost compared to out-of-state tuition rates. Additionally, many universities and colleges reserve scholarships and financial aid for in-state students, which helps reduce the cost of attending college for those who live there.
Here are a few well-known North Carolina universities and their in-state vs out-of-state tuition costs:
North Carolina State University
- In-state tuition: $9,105
- Out-of-state tuition: $31,977
University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill
- In-state tuition: $7,020
- Out-of-state tuition: $37,360
How do you get in-state tuition?
You are probably wondering how to get in-state tuition for North Carolina schools since it significantly reduces the cost of tuition! In order to receive in-state tuition, you will need to have established legal residence in North Carolina and maintained this status for at least 12 months prior to the beginning of the semester. Some ways to establish legal residence include obtaining a North Carolina driver’s license, registering your vehicle in North Carolina, and becoming employed in the state of North Carolina. Be sure to double check with your intended North Carolina institution what they require students to do in order to obtain in-state tuition!
Does North Carolina have tuition reciprocity?
Yes, but this benefit is only for graduate students. North Carolina is a barely-participating member of the Academic Common Market, which is a regional reciprocity agreement among Southern states. However, North Carolina only participates through their graduate school programs meaning undergraduate students will not benefit.
Additional North Carolina resources
College Foundation of North Carolina
This one-stop shopping website offers planning tools, timelines, test prep resources and financial literacy guidance are everything you need to set a course for college. Along with lots of scholarships that are easy to search for!
Community College Student Resources
Important resources for students planning to/or attending community college, including course library, curriculum, licensure/certifications, and high school equivalency information.
Golden Door Scholars
For DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), TPS (Temporary Protected Status), and Undocumented students. Applicants must be currently in high school or have graduated from a United States high school or obtained a GED (General Education Development) certificate from a United States GED Program. They also must be applying to or attend one of the Golden Door Scholars Partner Schools.
Frequently asked questions about North Carolina scholarships
What type of scholarships does North Carolina offer?
Are there scholarships available for graduate students in North Carolina?
Can out-of-state students receive scholarships in North Carolina?