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83.1%Acceptance
$7,541Tuition
19,304Students
73%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$51,836Earnings
#11 in North CarolinaPublic4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalNCAA Division IStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

Overview

Appalachian State University is a accessible public four-year institution in Boone, North Carolina. The school accepts 83.1% of applicants and enrolls 19,304 students.

Admission Statistics

Acceptance Rate
83.1%
Average SAT
1,185
SAT Range (25th–75th)
1,100–1,270
ACT Composite (avg)
24
Total Enrollment
19,304

Your Chances by SAT Score

Strong Candidate
SAT above 1,270

Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.

Competitive
SAT 1,100–1,270

Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.

Reach School
SAT below 1,100

Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.

Admission Guide

Appalachian State uses rolling admissions, so you can apply anytime after the application opens in August, though applying by November 15 gives you priority for housing and scholarships. Submit your application through the UNC system portal along with your high school transcripts and standardized test scores.

The nursing program requires a separate application process and is highly competitive due to limited spots. You'll need to complete prerequisite courses and maintain strong grades before applying for admission to the nursing school during your sophomore year. Computer science and construction management programs also have more selective admission requirements than the university overall.

Housing fills up quickly, especially in the popular residence halls near campus dining and academic buildings. Submit your housing application immediately after being accepted if you want to live on campus. The mountain location means you'll need warm clothing for winter, and the campus sits at 3,333 feet elevation, so expect cooler temperatures year-round compared to other North Carolina cities.

Orientation is mandatory for all new students and includes course registration, so attend the earliest session possible to get better class schedules. The campus operates a bus system that's essential for getting around, particularly to off-campus student housing areas. Parking on campus is limited and expensive, so many students rely on walking, biking, or the bus system.

Financial aid deadlines are strict, so complete your FAFSA by March 1 for maximum aid consideration. The surrounding Boone area has limited off-campus job opportunities, so factor this into your financial planning if you need to work during school.

What It Costs If You Get In

Average Net Price
$16,487/yr
Tuition (in-state)
$7,541
Tuition (out-of-state)
$24,537
Students Receiving Aid
26%

View full cost breakdown →

After You Graduate

Graduation Rate (6-year)
73.1%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$51,836/yr
Freshman Retention Rate
85.3%

View full outcomes data →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Appalachian State University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?

Appalachian State University is test-optional for most applicants. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.

What is the application deadline for Appalachian State University?

The regular admission deadline is February 1 for fall semester. Early action applications are due November 15.

How difficult is it to get into Appalachian State University?

Appalachian State University accepts most qualified applicants. The school looks for students with solid academic records and typically admits students with GPAs above 3.0.

Can I transfer to Appalachian State University from a community college?

Yes, Appalachian State University accepts transfer students from community colleges and four-year institutions. Transfer applicants need at least 24 credit hours and a minimum 2.0 GPA, though competitive programs may require higher GPAs.