A straight answer: 64.2% acceptance rate.
This means for every 100 applicants, only 64 actually get in. No guessing. University of North Carolina Wilmington is a UNIV institution located in Wilmington, NC — competition varies by program, but this is the official average.
Who Actually Gets In? (Men vs Women)
Quick breakdown so you get the real picture:
Men
Women
If you think one gender has an edge — the data tells what’s up.
Applications vs Admits: The Funnel That Matters
This is where the reality hits:
Yield Rate: N/A
This shows how many admitted students choose University of North Carolina Wilmington. High yield = high confidence. Low yield = students had better options.
What Scores Do You Need?
If you're applying without knowing what scores to aim for… that’s how rejection letters happen.
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Aim for the 75th percentile if you want peace of mind.
How to Interpret the University of North Carolina Wilmington Acceptance Rate the Right Way
Searching for the University of North Carolina Wilmington acceptance rate is often the first step students take when researching admissions. While the number itself is easy to find, interpreting it correctly takes a bit more nuance. Acceptance rates are averages, and averages rarely tell personal stories.
At University of North Carolina Wilmington, an acceptance rate of 64.2% reflects a wide mix of applicants—some highly prepared, some just beginning to explore college options. This makes the number useful for context, but unreliable as a predictor of individual outcomes.
What Drives Acceptance Rates at Universities Like University of North Carolina Wilmington
One major factor behind acceptance rates is applicant volume. When more students apply without fully meeting academic expectations, acceptance rates tend to rise. That doesn’t necessarily mean the university is lowering standards—it often means the applicant pool is broader.
At the same time, program-level demand plays a big role. Certain majors at University of North Carolina Wilmington may be far more competitive than others, which means students applying to those programs experience a different admissions reality than the overall acceptance rate suggests.
Why Students Misjudge Their Chances
Many students assume a higher acceptance rate means admissions are straightforward. In reality, admissions decisions are contextual. Coursework rigor, academic consistency, and clarity of goals often matter more than the headline acceptance rate.
The smartest way to use the acceptance rate at University of North Carolina Wilmington is as a planning signal. It helps students understand competitiveness at a high level, but real admissions outcomes depend on how well an applicant’s profile aligns with the university’s priorities.
Admissions Insight
Holistic Admissions? Or Score-Centric?
Some colleges love essays and activities. Some love high numbers.
Your Chances of Getting Into University of North Carolina Wilmington
Let’s keep it real:
- ✅ Great scores + strong extracurriculars → Solid chance
- 🔶 Good scores + average profile → Toss-up
- ❌ Below 25th percentile → You’re relying on miracles
If you’re international, competition goes up a notch. If you're applying to CS, Business, or Engineering → multiply difficulty by 2.
What's my real shot?
Acceptance Odds Estimator
Estimate your admission probability at University of North Carolina Wilmington based on your unique profile.
Pro Tip: Many more factors influence admission. For a deeper analysis that includes major, essays, and personal context — use Orbit's values-based matching.
Try Right Fit MatcherHow Students Should Use Admissions Information Going Forward
After reviewing admissions data, many students feel pressure to draw firm conclusions. But college admissions rarely reward certainty — they reward preparation and thoughtful decision-making.
Admissions outcomes are influenced by shifting factors: applicant interest, program capacity, and institutional priorities. That’s why the same university can feel approachable to one student and competitive to another.
Turning Research into Strategy
The best applicants use admissions information to shape their approach, not limit their options. They ask where they are competitive, where they may need stronger positioning, and how each school fits into their overall goals.
If University of North Carolina Wilmington aligns with your academic direction and expectations, then admissions data should help you plan — not second-guess yourself. Strategy, not speculation, leads to better outcomes.
Should You Apply to University of North Carolina Wilmington?
If 64.2% feels scary — that’s the point. High stakes → high payoff.
- Will I be a standout here?
- Do I like the vibe?
- Can I afford it? (Check scholarship opportunities)
- Is this my best-fit major here?
Explore University of North Carolina Wilmington
Jump to related stats for this same university.
FAQs About University of North Carolina Wilmington Acceptance Rate
What is the acceptance rate and what are typical test scores for admitted students?
UNC Wilmington has a 69% acceptance rate. The average SAT score for admitted students is 1222, while the average ACT score is 24, reflecting a moderately selective admission process.
How much does it cost to attend UNC Wilmington for in-state and out-of-state students?
In-state tuition at UNCW is $7,181 annually, while out-of-state students pay approximately $21,246, which is a significant increase and should be factored into your decision.
What are the most popular majors at UNCW?
The most popular majors at the University of North Carolina Wilmington include business, psychology, nursing, and marine biology, reflecting a balance between applied sciences and liberal arts disciplines.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio and average class size?
UNCW maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1, with 46% of classes having 2–19 students, allowing for more personalized interaction and a collaborative learning environment.
Does UNCW have strong research opportunities for undergraduates?
Yes, UNCW provides numerous research opportunities for undergraduates, especially through its emphasis on applied learning and partnerships with its Center for Marine Science, enhancing hands-on experience.
Final Verdict: Don’t Play It Casual
University of North Carolina Wilmington isn’t a lottery — but it sure feels like one if you apply blind.
Know where you stand. Play strengths. Show why you belong.
Unlock Your Best Shot with Orbit
Everything you need to maximize your college application success