10 Cheapest and Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina

If you’re looking for a quality college education that won’t leave you with overwhelming debt, North Carolina has a lot to offer. While the state is home to some well-known universities, it also features a wide range of affordable colleges, both public and private, that combine academic excellence with reasonable tuition.

From vibrant city campuses to more rural schools with a close-knit community feel, North Carolina’s higher education system is designed to be accessible. Many institutions offer strong financial aid packages, in-state tuition advantages, and scholarships that significantly reduce the actual cost of attendance.

Whether you’re aiming for a degree in business, healthcare, technology, or the arts, you’ll find programs that prepare you for the job market without breaking the bank. And with the state’s commitment to initiatives like the NC Promise Tuition Plan and NC Need-Based Scholarships, students like you have more support than ever before.

This list of the 10 most affordable colleges in North Carolina highlights the best-value options available. It’s designed to help you find a school that fits your goals and your budget, because great education shouldn’t come with a hefty price tag.

Why Should You Get a Degree in North Carolina?

Earning your degree in North Carolina opens doors to some of the most exciting and fast-growing industries in the Southeast. With tech hubs like the Research Triangle Park and major cities like Charlotte booming with opportunities, you’ll find career paths in healthcare, biotechnology, finance, and IT, all backed by some of the country’s biggest employers, like Duke Health, Epic Games, and Bank of America.

Beyond job prospects, North Carolina’s colleges and universities are known for strong academic programs and close ties to industry leaders. This means you won’t just learn in the classroom; you’ll gain experience that translates directly into the workforce.

And thanks to statewide initiatives like the NC Need-Based Scholarship and the NC Promise Tuition Plan, you have access to affordable, high-quality education. These programs make it easier to manage costs and keep your student loans in check.

From the mountains to the coast, North Carolina combines affordability, opportunity, and academic excellence, making it a smart place to earn your degree.

10 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina

North Carolina’s colleges and universities offer a wide range of affordable options across public and private institutions. Whether you’re interested in attending an HBCU, a private faith-based school, or a major state university, these ten colleges offer strong academic programs at a price that makes higher education more accessible.

North Carolina Central University

North Carolina Central University (NCCU) is a historically Black university that provides a supportive environment and a strong focus on public service, leadership, and academic achievement.

Main Courses

• Criminal Justice: Legal studies, law enforcement, and corrections
• Business: Finance, marketing, and management
• Education: Elementary education, special education, and administration

Pros

• Rich HBCU heritage and student-centered environment
• Affordable tuition with access to strong alumni support

Cons

• Fewer specialized degree options compared to larger universities

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$4,700 – A standout value for a public HBCU in North Carolina.

North Carolina A&T State University

North Carolina A&T is the largest HBCU in the country and is nationally recognized for its STEM programs and deep ties to the tech and engineering sectors.

Main Courses

• Engineering: Civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering
• Technology: Information technology, data analytics
• Business: Supply chain management, accounting, and entrepreneurship

Pros

• Strong STEM focus with major employer partnerships
• Excellent career services and internship pathways

Cons

• Competitive entry for engineering and tech programs

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$4,700 – Delivers premier STEM education at a highly affordable rate.

Montreat College

Montreat College offers a Christian liberal arts education set in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains. It blends faith-based learning with practical degree paths.

Main Courses

• Environmental Studies: Sustainability and Environmental Policy
• Business: Organizational leadership and entrepreneurship
• Psychology: Counseling and behavioral science

Pros

• Outdoor-focused campus with faith-integrated academics
• Small class sizes and individualized support

Cons

• Faith-based requirements may not appeal to all students

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$9,900 – Great for students seeking a Christian liberal arts education.

Gardner-Webb University

Gardner-Webb is a private, Baptist-affiliated university offering strong professional programs with a focus on service, leadership, and ethics.

Main Courses

• Nursing: BSN and RN-to-BSN tracks
• Business: Accounting, finance, and marketing
• Ministry: Divinity and pastoral leadership

Pros

• Welcoming faith-based community and leadership programs
• Flexible scheduling for adult and working students

Cons

• Higher private tuition offset by robust financial aid

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$11,000 – A strong value for a faith-based private university.

Campbell University

Campbell University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is known for preparing students for professional careers in business, education, and health.

Main Courses

• Pharmacy: Doctor of Pharmacy and pre-pharmacy tracks
• Business: Economics, management, and marketing
• Education: Elementary education, instructional technology

Pros

• Direct pathways to professional schools
• Personalized support and career counseling

Cons

• Structured programs may offer less flexibility

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$14,400 – A worthwhile investment in comprehensive private education.

Fayetteville State University

Fayetteville State University (FSU) is an HBCU that provides affordable public education with strong community, military, and business ties. This makes it especially appealing to students in the southeastern region of the state.

Main Courses

• Military Science: ROTC, defense studies, and leadership
• Business: Management, accounting, and entrepreneurship
• Criminal Justice: Law enforcement and legal systems

Pros

• Military-friendly with VA education benefits
• Supportive environment and regional partnerships

Cons

• Smaller program selection compared to flagship universities

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$18,300 – Affordable for students seeking a strong community-focused HBCU.

University of Mount Olive

The University of Mount Olive (UMO) is a private Free Will Baptist institution known for its small class sizes and strong agricultural and business programs.

Main Courses

• Agriculture: Agribusiness and crop science
• Business: Organizational leadership and human resources
• Criminal Justice: Forensics and Corrections

Pros

• Ideal for students from rural or farming communities
• Strong student-teacher engagement

Cons

• Fewer general education electives than larger universities

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$18,300 – A solid option for faith-based, rural-focused education.

Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University (WCU), located in the scenic mountain region, offers a wide range of affordable programs with a strong focus on technical and applied learning.

Main Courses

• Engineering: Electrical and mechanical systems
• Healthcare: Nursing, health sciences, and emergency care
• Education: Secondary education and special education

Pros

• Excellent value with access to NC Promise tuition
• Hands-on programs with regional industry ties

Cons

• Less urban access due to the mountain location

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$20,300 – High-quality education with regional job pipelines.

Appalachian State University

Appalachian State, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is known for its sustainability and outdoor education programs. It combines a liberal arts foundation with a forward-thinking curriculum.

Main Courses

• Sustainable Technology: Renewable energy and green construction
• Education: Curriculum development and instructional design
• Business: Hospitality management and finance

Pros

• Strong focus on environmental and sustainability issues
• Beautiful campus with access to outdoor activities

Cons

• Slightly higher tuition compared to other state schools

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$23,300 – A smart choice for students passionate about sustainability.

University of North Carolina Wilmington

UNC Wilmington (UNCW) offers a coastal setting, high-quality programs in marine science, health, and business, and robust undergraduate research opportunities.

Main Courses

• Marine Science: Oceanography and Coastal Ecology
• Business: Economics, entrepreneurship, and analytics
• Nursing: BSN, RN-to-BSN, and public health

Pros

• Research opportunities and industry links in the marine and coastal sectors
• Modern campus and active student life

Cons

• Higher tuition compared to other public universities in NC

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$27,000 – A competitive rate for a research-oriented coastal university.

Key Requirements for Enrolling in the Most Affordable North Carolina Colleges

If you’re planning to attend one of North Carolina’s most affordable colleges, it’s important to understand what you’ll need to apply. While each school may have slightly different requirements, most follow a similar admissions process, especially for public universities and private colleges offering accessible degree paths.

• Submit Completed Application Forms: Most schools accept either the Common Application or their own institutional form. Be sure to check deadlines and required materials, including personal essays if needed.
• Provide High School Transcripts: You’ll need to submit official transcripts showing your completed coursework and graduation status. These are typically sent directly from your high school.
• Meet GPA Requirements: Community colleges usually have open admissions policies, but four-year universities typically look for a GPA of at least 2.5 to 3.0.
• Submit SAT or ACT Scores: While some schools are test-optional, many North Carolina public universities still require standardized test scores for freshman applicants.
• Bring Financial Aid Documents: Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) along with any additional financial paperwork required by the college. This helps determine eligibility for programs like the NC Need-Based Scholarship.
• Complete Enrollment Verification: Once accepted, you’ll need to verify your enrollment by submitting final transcripts, immunization records, and proof of residency for in-state tuition rates.

How Do North Carolina College Costs Compare to National Averages?

When it comes to affordability, North Carolina stands out. Thanks to initiatives like the NC Promise Tuition Plan, some public universities offer tuition as low as $500 per semester for in-state students. This is significantly below the national average of around $17,000 per year at public universities.

In addition, the state’s community college system provides even more affordable access to higher education, with tuition averaging about $4,000 per year. Many students choose to start at a community college and transfer to a four-year university later to save on total costs.

North Carolina also invests heavily in financial aid programs. The NC Need-Based Scholarship and funding across the UNC System help ensure that students graduate with less debt than their peers in other states. Even at flagship institutions like UNC Chapel Hill and NC State, tuition and fees remain more competitive than similarly ranked research universities across the Southeast.

What Are the Tuition Fees for International Students at Affordable North Carolina Colleges?

If you’re an international student considering studying in North Carolina, you’ll find several affordable options that balance cost and quality. Schools like UNC Pembroke and Western Carolina University offer tuition rates for international students that typically range between $15,000 and $21,000 per year; a competitive rate compared to many other universities in the Southeast.

Even though international students pay more than in-state residents, many public universities in North Carolina offer merit-based scholarships, cultural transition support, and dedicated international student services. For example, NC State University and East Carolina University have well-established support systems and scholarship opportunities specifically aimed at international applicants.

With lower living costs in many areas of the state and strong academic programs, North Carolina schools offer excellent value for students coming from abroad. From the mountains to the coast, you’ll find welcoming campuses that prioritize both affordability and a supportive student experience.

How Does the University of the People Compare with Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina?

University of the People (UoPeople) offers a tuition-free, fully online model that differs from North Carolina’s traditional colleges. Students pay only a small assessment fee per course and a one-time application fee, making it one of the most affordable degree options globally.

While North Carolina colleges like Western Carolina University and Elizabeth City State University offer low in-state tuition through the NC Promise Plan, UoPeople removes housing and commuting costs and offers maximum flexibility for self-paced learners.

UoPeople is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). In contrast, North Carolina institutions are typically accredited by SACSCOC, which may affect credit transfer or graduate program eligibility in some cases.

If you’re looking for a flexible, low-cost online degree, UoPeople may be a strong fit. But for campus experiences, local networking, and broader student services, one of North Carolina’s affordable public universities may be a better choice.

Ready to Choose the Most Affordable College?

Choosing the right college in North Carolina doesn’t have to be overwhelming, especially when you know how to weigh both costs and value. Whether you’re looking for a faith-based private college, an HBCU with strong community roots, or a public university tied to one of the state’s thriving job markets, North Carolina gives you plenty of budget-friendly choices.

Start by comparing the total cost of attendance, not just tuition. Look into available scholarships, financial aid packages, and any NC-specific programs like the NC Promise Tuition Plan or the NC Need-Based Scholarship. If affordability is your top concern, also explore community college pathways that let you transfer to a four-year university later on.

Keep your long-term goals in mind. Consider what fields each school specializes in, what career services are available, and how graduates typically fare in the job market. With a little research and a clear understanding of your priorities, you can find a North Carolina college that fits both your budget and your future.

FAQs

What is the most affordable college in North Carolina?

Schools in the NC Promise Tuition Plan, such as Western Carolina University and Elizabeth City State University, offer some of the lowest tuition rates in the country; just $500 per semester for in-state students.

Which North Carolina colleges offer flexible payment plans?

Many colleges, including NC Central University and Fayetteville State University, offer monthly payment plans to help students manage tuition and fees.

Do North Carolina colleges accept transfer credits?

Yes. Most public universities in North Carolina, especially within the UNC System, have strong transfer credit policies and articulation agreements with community colleges.

Do North Carolina colleges require entrance exams?

Some do, but many have gone test-optional. Always check with the school’s admissions office to confirm current requirements for SAT or ACT scores.

Are there hidden fees in North Carolina colleges?

Besides tuition, you may encounter additional fees such as lab fees, housing, meal plans, and activity fees. Make sure to review the full cost of attendance when comparing schools.