North Carolina State University Scholarships (2026–2027)
← Back to college scholarships hub • See North Carolina aid & Grants
Last Updated on May 26, 2026
What This Page Covers:- Tuition, housing, and average family net price
- Automatic merit ranges and qualifier benchmarks
- Flagship and hidden-gem awards
- Honors and stacking strategy
📊 Admissions Snapshot
- Acceptance Rate: ~42%
- Middle 50% ACT: 30
- Middle 50% SAT: 1380
- Average GPA: 4.3
🧭 Quick Admissions Strategy (based on where your student falls)
- Below the typical ranges: This is a reach—especially for competitive majors like engineering. Build your list with schools that offer clear automatic merit so you’re not relying on NC State to come through financially.
- In the typical ranges: You’re competitive for admission, but scholarships are not guaranteed. Apply Early Action and plan to complete Pack ASSIST to access most institutional aid.
- Well above the ranges: Strong profile, but don’t expect automatic money. Your upside is competitive programs like Park or Goodnight—but those are highly selective.
Comparing multiple schools?
Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
📌 North Carolina State University at a Glance
🏆 Full tuition available (Park Scholarships & Pack Promise)
Average Net Price
$14,860/year (in-state estimate)
Average paid for residents.
Automatic Merit
Check college site
No separate application.
Scholarships Tracked
36 opportunities
1 automatic · 11 competitive · 18 hidden gem · 6 honors
Merit Evaluation
Holistic Review / Varies
Merit depends on profile rigor.
Testing Policy
Test-optional
Superscores ACT/SAT.
Key Deadlines
Priority: Nov 1 • FAFSA: Mar 1
Full-Tuition / Full-Ride
Park Scholarships & Pack Promise
Honors College
Honors Program Available
🚨 Easy-to-Miss “Gotchas” at North Carolina State University (Read This First)
- No automatic merit chart: Unlike many schools, NC State does not guarantee scholarships based on GPA/test scores—you must compete for most awards.
- Pack ASSIST is required: If you don’t complete this scholarship portal, you will miss most departmental and institutional opportunities.
- Flagship scholarships are separate: Park and Goodnight require additional applications and timelines beyond standard admission.
Have an engineering student?
Before chasing rankings, compare cost, scholarships, admission odds, and major access. Start with our guide to
colleges known for engineering.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? Yes — North Carolina State University is test-optional.
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT: 30; SAT: 1380.
Average net price? About $14,860/yearyear after aid.
Does this school use waivers/reciprocity?
Yes — participates in none.
💰 Cost of Attendance at North Carolina State University 2026-2027
📅 2026–2027 Planning Note: The costs below reflect the most recently published figures (2025–2026). Universities typically finalize the next year’s rates in the spring, and we’ll update this page once official 2026–2027 numbers are released.
Planning tip: At large public universities, tuition, fees, and housing usually increase modestly each year (often in the 2–5% range). For early budgeting, families may want to plan for roughly $1,000–$1,500 more in-state or $2,000–$3,000 more out-of-state in total direct costs once new rates are published.
| Category (2026–2027) |
In-State |
Out-of-State |
| Tuition & Mandatory Fees (2 semesters) |
$9,028 |
$33,993 |
| Housing & Meals (typical) |
$14,741 |
$14,741 |
| Total (Direct Costs) |
$23,769 |
$48,734 |
Average Federal Net Price: $14,860 — this is what families actually paid after grants and scholarships (no loans), based on the most recent federal data. Your specific cost could be significantly lower or higher depending on your financial aid eligibility and merit scholarships. New to Net Price & SAI? Read our guide.
Regional Aid Options: North Carolina does not participate in WUE or ACM for undergraduates.
However, NC residents may qualify for the Next NC Scholarship program:
- Next NC Scholarship: Automatic if you file the FAFSA, are an NC resident with family AGI ≤ $80,000, and a Student Aid Index ≤ 7,500.
Guarantees at least $5,000 per year at UNC System universities like NC State.
Cost of Attendance FAQ
Who qualifies for the Next NC Scholarship? North Carolina residents with family AGI ≤ $80,000 and a Student Aid Index ≤ 7,500 who submit the FAFSA on time.
How much does it save? At NC State, the award provides at least $5,000 per year toward tuition and fees for eligible families—often more when combined with Pell or institutional aid.
Do I need to apply separately? No — there’s no extra application; eligibility is verified automatically after you file the FAFSA.
Sources:
https://studentservices.ncsu.edu/finances/estimated-cost-of-attendance/undergraduate-student-estimated-cost-of-attendance/
https://studentservices.ncsu.edu/finances/estimated-cost-of-attendance/
https://bigfuture.collegeboard.org/colleges/north-carolina-state-university/tuition-and-costs
https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?199193-North-Carolina-State-University-at-Raleigh=
https://www.cfnc.org/pay-for-college/next-nc-scholarship/
https://www.nccommunitycolleges.edu/students/paying-for-college/options-for-paying-for-college/scholarships/nc-scholarship/
✅ The Pack ASSIST Merit System (No Guaranteed Tiers)
Some universities post clear GPA/test score charts for automatic awards. NC State does not. All of its merit scholarships flow through Pack ASSIST, the central scholarship portal, and awards are decided competitively. There are no guaranteed “automatic” tiers tied to GPA or test scores alone.
🧩 How Scholarships Stack at NC State
NC State layering works differently depending on the award.
- Next NC Scholarship: Acts as a baseline for eligible NC families and typically stacks with federal aid and institutional scholarships.
- Pack ASSIST awards: Often stack with federal and state aid, provided total aid does not exceed Cost of Attendance.
- Park Scholarship: Full cost-of-attendance award. Typically replaces most other institutional funding.
- Goodnight Scholars: Major-restricted STEM award for NC residents. If a student leaves an eligible STEM major, funding does not continue.
- Outside scholarships: NC State usually reduces loans/work-study before reducing grant aid, but policies can vary.
Example Scenario:
An in-state student with family AGI of $70,000 may qualify for the Next NC Scholarship ($5,000+), Pell Grant (if eligible), and Pack ASSIST awards layered together.
An out-of-state high-stat student, however, must rely heavily on competitive awards like Park — there is no automatic merit grid.
| Scholarship |
Award Amount |
Eligibility |
Separate App? |
Renewable? |
Who Actually Wins? |
Deadline |
| Pack ASSIST Portal Awards |
$500–$5,000/yr (some higher) |
All admitted undergraduates who complete the Pack ASSIST profile by Feb 15 (priority date). Each award has its own donor, college, merit, or need requirements. |
Yes — one central portal application |
Varies by award |
Students with strong academics, FAFSA on file, and who match fund criteria; many are major/college or need/merit blends. |
Feb 15 (priority for new students) |
Automatic
Automatic Merit Grid Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Varies
Non-Renewable
Holistic / Status Based
💡
Strategic Detail
Placeholder record to make clear that NC State does not currently have a published automatic GPA/test-score scholarship chart for 2026-2027.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: No one wins an automatic grid award because NC State does not publish one. Merit is handled through competitive scholarship review and Pack ASSIST matching instead.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Note: NC State does not publish guaranteed GPA/test thresholds. All institutional merit aid is competitive within the Pack ASSIST system.
Automatic Scholarships FAQ
Do I need to submit test scores? NC State is test-optional for admission. Some scholarships may consider test scores if submitted, but most review your full academic record, rigor, and activities.
Does NC State superscore? Yes. NC State superscores both the SAT and ACT, combining your student’s best section scores across test dates to maximize their review profile.
How do I apply? Admission plus completing the Pack ASSIST application (by Feb 15 priority) is the only step for most general awards.
Are there clear GPA cutoffs? No — unlike some flagships, NC State does not publish auto-merit charts. Awards are competitive and holistic.
Can Pack ASSIST awards stack with state or federal aid? Yes. Most can stack with Pell, SEAA grants, and the Next NC Scholarship. Each donor fund lists any “cannot combine with” notes.
Sources:
https://packassist.ncsu.edu/
https://financialaid.ncsu.edu/types-of-aid/scholarships/
https://admissions.ncsu.edu/apply/freshman/requirements/
https://registrar.ncsu.edu/faq/#superscore
🏆 Competitive Scholarships
NC State’s most prestigious awards are selective and require separate applications, essays, or interviews. These aren’t automatic — they’re highly competitive, with small cohorts and rigorous review. Families should pay close attention to deadlines: Park Scholarships open in early fall, while Goodnight Scholarships and others run their own application cycles.
App Required
Goodnight Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Jan 1
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$23,000–$24,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🏫 4.2+ GPA✎ ~29 ACT✎ ~1350 SAT
✚
Stacking & Combining
Can stack with other need/state aid
📄
How to Apply
Separate online application and interviews required; must be NC resident in eligible STEM/STEM education major
Selection criteria: Academic achievement, service, leadership
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Transfers eligible for 3-year award; not available to out-of-state students
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Selective admits—recent cohorts show GPA ~4.2+, SAT 1350+, ACT 29+ with high service/leadership
App Required
Caldwell Fellows
📅 Deadline: Feb 1 (FY app)
✓ Renews (3.25 GPA)
$10,000/yr
✘ Not stackable
🏫 3.3+ GPA👥 ~25 per year winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Cannot combine with other major NC State merit awards (Park, Goodnight, Shelton, etc.)
📄
How to Apply
First-year students only; apply with essays, recommendations, video, transcript; finalists attend interview day in February.
Selection criteria: Academics, leadership, engagement, interview
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Awarded to current FYs; program includes leadership and service curriculum
🕵
Who Actually Wins
FY students with ~3.5+ GPA & service/leadership; highly selective, about 25 per year
App Required
Poole College Dean’s Scholars
📅 Deadline: Feb 1
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 4.2+ GPA👥 ~5–10 per year winners/yr
📄
How to Apply
By invitation/application from Poole College; admitted business majors, leadership/service factors; Feb 1 deadline
Selection criteria: GPA, leadership, business interest
✎ Essays
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Top 5–10 business admits (GPA ~4.2+), leadership/service highlighted
App Required
Caldwell Fellows
📅 Deadline: Late January-February; first-year application cycle varies by year
✓ Renews (3.25 GPA)
$10,000/yr
✘ Not stackable
🏫 3.3+ GPA👥 ~25 per year winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Caldwell generally cannot be combined with other major NC State merit awards such as Park, Goodnight, or Shelton. Families should treat it as a major leadership program, not a stackable add-on scholarship.
📄
How to Apply
Current first-year NC State students apply with essays, recommendations, a video, and a transcript. Finalists are invited to an interview day in late winter. This is not an incoming freshman award; students apply after they are already at NC State.
Selection criteria: Review focuses on academics, leadership, service, campus engagement, and interview strength.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Caldwell Fellows is a selective leadership and service program for current NC State first-year students. About 25 students are selected each year.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
This is for current NC State first-year students who have already shown strong academics, service, leadership, and campus engagement. The most realistic candidates usually have strong first-year grades and a clear pattern of serving and leading, not just a good high school resume.
Full RideApp Required
Park Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Nov 1 (NC State app, school nomination, Park app)
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Ride
full cost of attendance (tuition/fees, housing, meals, books, travel, stipend, enrichment)
✘ Not stackable
🏫 4.4+ GPA✎ ~32 ACT✎ ~1450 SAT👥 ~35–40 per year winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Park replaces all other NC State merit awards; does not stack.
📄
How to Apply
Submit NC State application, obtain school nomination and complete Park application by Nov 1. Separate essays and recommendations required.
Selection criteria: Academics, leadership, service, character
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Highly competitive; includes enrichment funding and stipends
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: ~35–40/class; recent recipients have 4.4+ weighted, 1450+ SAT/32+ ACT and extraordinary leadership
App Required
Wilson College of Textiles — Centennial Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Nov 10
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
🏫 4.0+ GPA
✚
Stacking & Combining
Includes up to $7,500 enrichment funds; typically stacks unless fund rule
📄
How to Apply
Apply to NC State and select Textiles major by Nov 10; endorsement/self-nomination, separate Centennial app by Dec 1; interview for finalists
Selection criteria: Academic achievement, leadership, involvement
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Minimum $20,000/yr starting in fall 2026; finalists attend interview weekend
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Top national applicants—Textiles admits with leadership, high GPA/rigor
App Required
Goodnight Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Apply to NC State by Early Action in early November · 📢 Results: Early March
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
Goodnight may stack with need-based aid and some other awards, depending on NC State's aid rules and the student's total package.
📄
How to Apply
Students apply to NC State by Early Action. Selected students receive an invitation in mid-December to complete the Goodnight Scholars application in Pack ASSIST. Finalists attend a required interview day in late February.
Selection criteria: Review focuses on academic achievement, service, leadership, STEM interest, and the student's ability to connect STEM with community or societal needs.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
The first-year Goodnight Scholarship is valued at $24,000 per year for up to four years. It is limited to eligible North Carolina students in STEM or STEM education fields with household AGI at or below the program limit.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
This is a strong fit for North Carolina students headed into STEM or STEM education who also meet the income limit. The most realistic candidates have strong academics, leadership, service, and a clear interest in using STEM to solve real problems.
Full RideApp Required
Park Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Nov 1 for both NC State admission application and Park Scholarships application
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Full Ride
full cost of attendance scholarship
✘ Not stackable
🏫 3.8+ GPA👥 ~35-40 per year winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Park is NC State's flagship full-ride scholarship and generally replaces other NC State merit awards. Families should not expect to stack it with other major university merit scholarships.
📄
How to Apply
Students must apply for fall first-year admission to NC State and submit the separate Park Scholarships application by November 1. The Park application includes essays and two recommendations, followed by a multi-stage selection and interview process for selected candidates.
Selection criteria: Holistic review based on scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Standardized test scores are considered only if submitted.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
Park covers the full cost of attendance and includes enrichment support. About 35-40 scholars are selected each year.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: This is a true reach-level scholarship. Realistic winners usually have exceptional academics, major leadership, service, character, and a record of impact that goes beyond being a strong student.
App Required
Poole College Dean's Scholars
📅 Deadline: Feb 1 typical deadline; check Poole scholarship page each cycle
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
👥 ~5-10 per year winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
This award may stack with other aid when allowed by NC State and Poole College scholarship rules.
📄
How to Apply
Admitted Poole College of Management students are invited to apply. The application is typically due around February and focuses on academic strength, leadership, and engagement.
Selection criteria: Review considers GPA, leadership, and demonstrated interest in business.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Poole Dean's Scholars is a smaller selective business scholarship, generally around $10,000 per year, with a small cohort of roughly 5-10 students.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
This is for top incoming business students. The most realistic candidates have strong academics, leadership, and a clear interest in business or management. The cohort is small, so this should be treated as competitive.
App Required
Wilson College of Textiles Centennial Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Early November
✓ Renews (3 GPA, 4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
✚
Stacking & Combining
The Centennial Scholarship includes enrichment funding and may stack with other aid when allowed by NC State and fund rules.
📄
How to Apply
Students apply to NC State and choose a Wilson College of Textiles major by the early deadline. They must secure an endorsement or self-nominate, then submit the Centennial Scholarship application by early December. Finalists attend an on-campus interview weekend.
Selection criteria: Review focuses on academic achievement, leadership, and involvement or genuine interest in textiles or related fields.
✎ Essays🎤 Interview💌 Letters of Rec🌟 Finalist Event
💡
Strategic Detail
The Centennial Scholarship has recently been valued at a minimum of $20,000 per year and includes separate enrichment funds. Students must be admitted to a Wilson College of Textiles undergraduate program.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
This is for strong students who are genuinely interested in textiles-related fields. The best candidates have strong academics, leadership, and evidence that the Wilson College of Textiles is not just a backup major.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Pack ASSIST Portal Awards
📅 Deadline: Feb 15
✓ Renews
$500–$5,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Most can stack with Pell, state grants, and other institutional aid. Each donor fund lists any stack limits.
📄
How to Apply
Complete Pack ASSIST profile and matching fund questions by Feb 15; submit FAFSA for need-based aid.
Selection criteria: Fund-specific holistic or need/merit review
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
No guaranteed automatic merit; all awards competitive. GPA/test chart not published.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students with strong academics, FAFSA on file, and who match fund criteria—many are major/college, need/merit blends.
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
*GPA/test score ranges are estimates based on past cohorts; actual thresholds change yearly per pool strength.
Competitive Scholarships FAQ
How many Park Scholars are selected? About 35–40 per class; it’s among the most selective in the UNC System.
Is Goodnight only for STEM majors? Yes—applicants must be NC residents and choose a STEM or STEM education major.
Are these awards stackable? Full cost-of-attendance (like Park) replaces NC State merit. Others often stack with other aid unless fund rules say otherwise.
Where do I apply? Park, Goodnight, Centennial, and Caldwell each have their own app—Pack ASSIST is not used for these flagship awards.
Sources:
https://park.ncsu.edu/apply/
https://goodnight.ncsu.edu/apply/
https://textiles.ncsu.edu/admissions/cost-scholarships/
https://caldwellfellows.ncsu.edu/apply/
https://poole.ncsu.edu/undergraduate/advising/scholarships/
https://financialaid.ncsu.edu/types-of-aid/scholarships/
💎 Hidden Gem Scholarships
NC State has a deep bench of donor, departmental, identity-based, ROTC, band, research, and study-abroad awards that can quietly reduce the bill. These aren’t automatic merit—apply through Pack ASSIST or the specific program and watch deadlines.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Pack ASSIST Portal Awards
📅 Deadline: Feb 15
✓ Renews
$500–$5,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Many Pack ASSIST awards can stack with Pell, state grants, and other aid, but each donor fund can have its own limits. Families should review each award letter carefully.
📄
How to Apply
After admission, students log into Pack ASSIST and complete the General Application, plus any Supplemental or Recommended Opportunities. New students should complete it by February 15 for strongest consideration. Students should also file the FAFSA if they want to be considered for need-based funds.
Selection criteria: Review varies by fund and may use Pack ASSIST matching logic, academics, financial need, essays, major, residency, or donor-specific criteria.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
NC State does not publish a simple automatic GPA/test grid. Pack ASSIST is where many competitive donor, departmental, merit, and need-based scholarships are matched to students.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
This is the scholarship bucket families should not skip. Students who complete a strong Pack ASSIST profile and match donor, department, major, residency, need, or class-year criteria have the best shot. Many awards are not huge, but they can help fill gaps.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
NSF S-STEM Scholarship (Math)
📅 Deadline: Feb 15
✓ Renews
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Math majors apply via department and Pack ASSIST, must demonstrate need and academic merit
Selection criteria: Need, merit, departmental review
✎ Essays
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Math students with combination of need and strong record
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Extraordinary Opportunity Scholarship Initiative (EOSI)
📅 Deadline: Feb 15
✓ Renews
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Stackable with other need awards, recalculated yearly
📄
How to Apply
Pack ASSIST application, FAFSA review for gap aid; may require additional materials
Selection criteria: Gap-need, FAFSA
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Low/mid-income or first-gen; fills unmet need after grants/aid
App Required
Wilson College of Textiles — NCTF Merit/Prestige
📅 Deadline: Feb 15
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
$2,500–$5,000/yr
✔ Stackable
Holistic / Status Based
📄
How to Apply
Apply via Pack ASSIST/college process; Textiles major required; merit and some need included.
Selection criteria: Fund-specific achievement &/or need
✎ Essays
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Top incoming Textiles students; merit/need mix
Full TuitionApp Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Army/Air Force/Navy ROTC Scholarships
📅 Deadline: Fall–winter (national boards), campus timelines vary
✓ Renews
Full Tuition
tuition, stipend, and books; ROTC
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Can stack with other university scholarships (except full merit/COA)
📄
How to Apply
Apply to relevant military branch/unit; meet academic, fitness, and medical guidelines
Selection criteria: Branch, academic and physical review
💡
Strategic Detail
Awards may include tuition, fees, living stipend, and books; obligations follow branch rules
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Commissioning-track students meeting academic/fitness/medical
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Chancellor’s Study Abroad Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Spring (by program)
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply via Study Abroad app; requires essay, academic record, and acceptance to approved program
Selection criteria: Merit, need, personal statement
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
One-time scholarship for each trip
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Strong applicants with global learning goals
Full TuitionAutomaticgeographicpipeline
Pack Promise
📅 Deadline: March 1 FAFSA
✓ Renews (8 yrs)
Full Tuition
gap need-based, full tuition and fees
✔ Stackable
⚠ Full in‑state tuition for four years for the most academically talented Vermont resident at each eligible high school, plus Honors College invitation
👥 ~300–400/year winners/yr
✚
Stacking & Combining
Can stack with Pell and state grant aid
💡
Strategic Detail
Covers up to 8 semesters if eligible
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Lowest-income NC residents who meet FAFSA and residency
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Andrew H. Masini Memorial Marching Band
📅 Deadline: Late spring pre-season
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply/audition with NC State Marching Band; director selects by merit and ensemble needs
Selection criteria: Musical/ensemble merit
💡
Strategic Detail
Covers two terms (fall/spring) only
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Standout marchers, not always music majors
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Black Alumni Society — Clark & Witherspoon
📅 Deadline: Feb–Mar cycle
Non-Renewable
👥 ~2–3/year winners/yr🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply through Pack ASSIST or at Alumni Association; leadership/service required
Selection criteria: Leadership, service
💡
Strategic Detail
2-3 undergrads selected yearly; started in 1985
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Active undergrads with leadership/service record
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Latinx Alumni Network (LAN) Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Feb–Mar cycle
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply via Pack ASSIST/Alumni cycle; engagement and need considered
Selection criteria: Engagement, merit, and need
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Latinx students with community involvement/need
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
NC State Scholarship Portal (Pack ASSIST)
📅 Deadline: Feb 15
✓ Renews
$1,000–$10,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
Varies by award; most stackable with other aid.
📄
How to Apply
Complete Pack ASSIST profile by Feb 15. Match and apply to individual college/department/alumni funds.
Selection criteria: Fund-specific holistic or need/merit review
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Includes academic, major, leadership, and identity scholarships. Amounts reflect typical ranges from fund directory.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students matching donor/department criteria with strong application/essays.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Poole College of Management — Undergraduate
📅 Deadline: Feb 15
✓ Renews
$1,000–$10,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply via Pack ASSIST; review and match with donor funds; GPA/major/other criteria vary by fund.
Selection criteria: Fund-specific holistic or need/merit review
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Major and some college-based/need funds available; renewable status depends on fund
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Business students with strong GPA, donor fit
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
College of Education — Undergraduate
📅 Deadline: Feb 15
✓ Renews
$500–$10,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Complete Pack ASSIST application and match to education funds; some study abroad funds require a separate application.
Selection criteria: Fund-specific merit/need/major
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Includes internal and travel (study abroad) awards
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Education majors, renewable if GPA/major met
App Required
W. Duke Kimbrell Scholarship (Textiles)
📅 Deadline: Feb 15
✓ Renews (4 yrs)
Holistic / Status Based
📄
How to Apply
Apply via Pack ASSIST/college; NC residency (preference Gaston County); financial need; entering Textiles
Selection criteria: Eligibility, financial need
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Prefers Gaston County residents
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: NC-based Textiles admits meeting donor location/need
App Required
Engineering — PLTW Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Feb 15
Non-Renewable
Holistic / Status Based
📄
How to Apply
First-year engineering majors apply via Pack ASSIST and indicate PLTW background
Selection criteria: PLTW background, merit
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Limited number of one-time awards
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: New EE/ME/ChemE/CS majors with PLTW course
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
NC State Study Abroad Scholarships (general)
📅 Deadline: Spring (by term)
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply via Study Abroad portal; deadlines vary by term
Selection criteria: Merit, need, personal statement
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
About 1 in 3 applicants awarded
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Early applicants; thoughtful proposals
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Undergraduate Research Grants (OUR)
📅 Deadline: Fall/Spring cycles
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Apply to Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR); faculty mentor and project proposal required
Selection criteria: Research design, faculty support
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Stipend, supply, and travel grants; competitive
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Clear research plans, faculty support
App Required⚠ Junior Only
Astronaut Scholarship Foundation (ASF)
📅 Deadline: Spring (campus selected)
Non-Renewable
🎓 Junior
📄
How to Apply
US juniors/seniors in STEM nominated by NC State campus; apply to ASF if nominated
Selection criteria: Research, innovation, nomination
✎ Essays💌 Letters of Rec
💡
Strategic Detail
Innovation, research, and academic distinction required
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Top STEM juniors/seniors with faculty nomination
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Alby Rose Marching Band Scholarship
📅 Deadline: Late spring pre-season
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Band member applies/auditions; director selects, merit and need considered
Selection criteria: Director need and performance
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Most winners: Section players filling high-need roles
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Notes: When a fund lists “amount varies,” estimates reflect historical or university published ranges. Always double-check current deadlines and stacking rules in Pack ASSIST or the program site.
Hidden Gems FAQ
How do we find/apply for most? Use Pack ASSIST after admission: apply to all college/departmental options it matches. For study abroad, band, ROTC, and Caldwell Fellows, apply via the program site.
Can these stack with auto merit or state aid? Usually yes, but need-based programs adjust if you get more aid; verify “cannot combine” rules on each fund.
Are band/music awards only for majors? No—many awards go to non-majors who fill ensemble gaps.
What’s a typical study abroad award? University-wide awards usually run $1,000–$4,000 per trip, depending on program/term.
Sources:
https://packassist.ncsu.edu/
https://financialaid.ncsu.edu/types-of-aid/scholarships/
https://ncsu.edu/registrar/faqs/
https://poole.ncsu.edu/undergraduate/advising/scholarships/
https://textiles.ncsu.edu/admissions/cost-scholarships/
https://oied.ncsu.edu/divweb/black-alumni-society/
https://latinxalumni.ncsu.edu/scholarship/
https://our.dasa.ncsu.edu/undergraduate-research-grants/
https://studyabroad.ncsu.edu/funding/
https://caldwellfellows.ncsu.edu/apply/
https://ncsu.edu/financial-aid/pack-promise/
🎖️ University Honors Program (NC State)
NC State runs a University Honors Program (separate from University Scholars). Admission is by self-application after applying to NC State, not by automatic invite. It’s selective but designed to expand opportunities for motivated students — smaller classes, research, and unique seminars. Applications typically open in the fall with a priority window around the admissions deadlines.
What a Typical NC State Honors Student Looks Like:
Weighted GPA: 4.3–4.6* • SAT 1350–1500* • ACT 30–33* • Strong AP/IB/AICE rigor • Documented leadership and service
*Estimates based on published student profiles and past cohorts; NC State does not publish firm cutoffs.
Why Honors Matters:
- Priority registration and smaller, discussion-based classes
- Dedicated Honors advising and peer mentor networks
- Undergraduate research support and thesis opportunities
- Honors housing in Living-Learning Villages with community events
- Global seminars, study abroad stipends, and interdisciplinary courses
Honors-Linked Scholarships
Automatic⚠ All Undergrad Only
Honors Village Participation Awards
📅 Deadline: Considered annually at the start of the academic year as funding permits
✓ Renews
$500–$2,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
These small awards typically stack with other institutional merit and need-based aid, but they are limited by available Honors Village funding.
💡
Strategic Detail
NC State does not publish a fixed Honors Village scholarship grid. Any awards connected to Honors Village participation appear to be small, variable, and dependent on annual funding.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
This is most realistic for Honors students who live in the Honors Village and are visibly involved in the community. Families should think of this as small recognition or participation support, not a major college-cost reducer.
Automatic⚠ All Undergrad Only
Village Honors Scholarships (LLC-linked)
📅 Deadline: Matched at start of academic year
✓ Renews
$1,000–$3,000/yr
✔ Stackable
🎓 All Undergrad
💡
Strategic Detail
Annual awards as long as student is engaged
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Students deeply involved in Honors Village culture
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Honors Enrichment Grants
📅 Deadline: Multiple fall and spring cycles; dates are announced internally each year
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
These grants can usually be combined with other scholarships and financial aid, but total funding cannot exceed the cost of the approved experience.
📄
How to Apply
Current University Honors students submit an internal application with a clear proposal and faculty support. The money is meant for enrichment experiences such as research, study abroad, service, or other approved academic development opportunities.
Selection criteria: Review focuses on project clarity, educational impact, feasibility, and faculty support.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Award amounts and the number of grants depend on annual funding. Families should think of this as project support, not tuition scholarship money.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
This is for Honors students who already have a specific project or experience in mind. The strongest applications explain what the student will do, why it matters, how the money will be used, and include faculty support.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Honors Program Travel Awards
📅 Deadline: Program-specific deadlines tied to spring, summer, and fall travel cycles
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
✚
Stacking & Combining
This award may stack with other study abroad scholarships, but total funding generally cannot exceed the cost of the travel or program experience.
📄
How to Apply
Honors students accepted into an approved study abroad program or faculty-led global seminar submit an internal travel funding application. The application usually includes a short essay explaining the purpose and academic or personal value of the travel experience.
Selection criteria: Review focuses on acceptance to the program, clarity of travel purpose, and academic relevance.
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
This is supplemental travel support, not a recurring tuition scholarship. Award amounts are small compared with overall college costs but can help reduce the price of an approved global experience.
🕵
Who Actually Wins
This is for active University Honors students with an approved travel plan. The strongest candidates can clearly explain how the study abroad or global seminar connects to their academic goals, personal growth, or Honors experience.
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Honors Enrichment Grants
📅 Deadline: Fall and Spring cycles
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Internal Honors application with proposal; open to Honors students; requires project/faculty plan
Selection criteria: Project clarity, faculty support
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Covers research, travel, service; applies per project
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Honors students with faculty-backed proposal and clear goals
App Required⚠ All Undergrad Only
Honors Program Travel Awards
📅 Deadline: Programs set deadlines (spring/fall)
Non-Renewable
🎓 All Undergrad
📄
How to Apply
Must be Honors student accepted into global seminar or study abroad program; apply via Honors/Study Abroad
Selection criteria: Acceptance, travel purpose
✎ Essays
💡
Strategic Detail
Funding for short study abroad or global seminar
🕵
Who Actually Wins
Active Honors students approved for faculty-led travel
* GPA/test bands are estimates based on official selectivity and prior cohort profiles. "Who Actually Wins" insights are pulled from external peer-sourced data where students and parents have reported real-world award results. Because colleges can change funding thresholds and deadlines at any time, always verify these details with the institution before finalizing your application strategy.
Honors FAQ
Is admission automatic? No — you must apply separately to the Honors Program after your NC State application.
Does Honors add time to your degree? No — Honors integrates with your major and is designed to finish in four years.
What’s the difference between Honors and Scholars? Honors focuses on advanced classes, research, and enrichment; Scholars is about leadership/cultural programming.
Are there dedicated scholarships? Yes — mostly project- or village-based, ranging from $500–$3,000 for research, global learning, or high engagement.
Sources:
https://honors.dasa.ncsu.edu/
https://scholars.dasa.ncsu.edu/
https://financialaid.ncsu.edu/types-of-aid/scholarships/
https://packassist.ncsu.edu/
https://studyabroad.ncsu.edu/funding/
⭐ College Specialty
North Carolina State University (NC State) is one of the South’s premier public research universities and a proud member of the Research Triangle alongside UNC–Chapel Hill and Duke. It’s widely known for hands-on STEM programs, strong industry partnerships, and a culture that blends research with real-world application. Families often recognize NC State for engineering, but the university’s strengths extend into agriculture, textiles, analytics, and design — programs built around solving practical problems and preparing students for immediate career impact.
Nationally Known Program:
College of Engineering — consistently ranked among the top public engineering schools in the country, with nationally recognized strength in mechanical, electrical, civil, and nuclear engineering. NC State’s engineering students benefit from strong co-op programs, corporate recruiting pipelines, and research partnerships throughout the Research Triangle.
- Textiles & Fashion (Wilson College of Textiles): One of the only standalone textile colleges in the U.S., nationally respected for textile engineering, fashion development, and supply chain innovation.
- Agriculture & Life Sciences: A land-grant powerhouse with nationally ranked programs in animal science, plant sciences, biological sciences, and agricultural business.
- Computer Science & Analytics: Strong employer pipelines in data science, cybersecurity, and software development, supported by proximity to major tech employers in Raleigh and the broader Triangle region.
- Design (College of Design): Well-regarded architecture, industrial design, and graphic design programs with a practical, portfolio-driven focus.
🔗 Official North Carolina State University Links
Use NC State’s official university resources below to verify admissions requirements, scholarship policies,
costs, deadlines, and academic program details. Always rely on these pages for final award terms and application timelines.
📅 NC State Aid Timeline (Senior Year)
| Deadline |
What Happens |
Parent Action |
| Nov 1 (EA) |
Early positioning for scholarships |
Submit application + FAFSA if possible |
| Feb 15 |
Pack ASSIST priority |
Complete profile and essays |
| Mar 1 |
FAFSA final consideration |
Confirm FAFSA processed |
Final Thoughts
NC State makes the college money maze a little clearer once you know where to look. Automatic merit trims costs for strong applicants, competitive scholarships like Park and Goodnight create life-changing opportunities, and hidden gems through Pack ASSIST, band, or ROTC can fill in the gaps. Add in the Honors perks and NC State’s R1 research profile, and Wolfpack families can find real value here. The key is applying early, filling out every portal, and stacking wisely — that’s how families end up much closer to net price than the sticker shock suggests.
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