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College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
NC State student on campus

Guidance for Applicants

Increase your chances of admission.

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Applying to college can be overwhelming.

That’s why we’ve provided information to guide you through the application process for NC State University and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

340+ Scholarships

There’s more than $1 million in scholarships available to CALS undergraduate and AGI students each year.

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What are my chances of being admitted?

That’s the number one question we get.

NC State uses a holistic admissions process and considers more than an applicant’s test score and GPA. We understand that leadership experience in organizations such as 4-H and FFA, an agricultural background, science-related opportunities, or participation in pre-college or summer programs are strong indicators of student success.

But your academic performance is important, too. In 2022, NC State had a 47% acceptance rate.

While many students begin their college career at CALS as a traditional freshman, many others transfer from another institution. What do all of our students have in common? They graduate with a degree from CALS at NC State, regardless of where they started. We want you here, and we can help find the right path for you.

Industry Demand

The USDA forecasts demand for college graduates in agriculture and food industries to be 57,900 a year, but U.S. agricultural colleges are only producing 35,400 graduates a year. There is tremendous demand for CALS graduates, especially in the following programs:

CALS Grads in
High Demand

There are 22,500 more U.S. Ag jobs than grads every year.

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What can I do to prepare?

Many factors are considered in the admissions process. We want to hear about your background and the experiences that have shaped you into a competitive applicant and potential member of the Wolfpack.

Note: Due to testing interruptions caused by COVID-19, NC State will be test-optional for 2023 and 2024 spring and fall first-year applicants. You will not be disadvantaged if you indicate you do not want scores to be considered in your application review. You must indicate whether you plan to submit SAT or ACT scores for admissions consideration.

Visit the NC State Admissions website for admissions guidelines and requirements.

Tips for preparing for college

Start Preparing Early

Your entire high school academic record is important. Develop good study habits early in high school, and it will pay dividends for years to come. 

Challenge Yourself

Consider honors, AP, IB, or dual-enrollment courses where available. 

Take Standardized Tests Multiple Times

In today’s competitive admissions environment, every point counts, and many students perform better when they take a test more than once.
 

Consider Standardized Test Prep

ACT Supplemental Preparation in Rural Education (ASPIRE) is a low-cost initiative offered by CALS to rural students in many North Carolina counties. 

Spend a Day at State Program

We invite high school juniors, seniors, and transfer students to visit us this spring to learn about our degree programs, perks of CALS, participate in a class observation, and connect with faculty, staff, and current students. 

Attend a Summer Program

We offer many pre-college programs for prospective students interested in research, exploring careers, and experiencing life at NC State. 

We Want You Here

There is more than one path to CALS, and we want to help you find yours.

Find Your Path To CALS

Applying to CALS

We strongly encourage all applicants to apply for freshman admission by November 1 for priority consideration of all CALS Scholarships.

Visit the NC State Admissions website for additional guidance and requirements.