Understanding the ACT Scores at North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University (NC State), a prominent research university in Raleigh, NC, attracts students with its innovative programs and commitment to solving critical global challenges. A key factor for prospective students is understanding the university's expectations regarding ACT scores. This article provides an in-depth look at the NC State ACT score landscape, offering valuable insights for applicants.

NC State's Academic Profile

NC State is recognized as a top-tier institution, ranked among the nation's best values for universities by Princeton Review and holding high positions in rankings by Money magazine, Forbes, and the Center for World University Rankings. The university contributes significantly to North Carolina's economy, adding $6.5 billion annually. With a selective acceptance rate of 41.67%, NC State seeks students who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to learning and innovation.

What ACT Score Is Considered Good for NC State?

The average ACT score at NC State is 29, placing it among moderately selective universities. However, the middle 50% of admitted students score between 25 and 32 on the ACT.

ACT Scores and Admission Chances

Average ACT Score: 29
25th Percentile: 25
75th Percentile: 32

While NC State likely doesn't have a strict minimum ACT requirement, scoring at or below 25 can significantly decrease your chances of admission unless you have other outstanding aspects in your application. Aiming for a score of 29 or higher will greatly improve your prospects.

Detailed Breakdown of ACT Scores at NC State

To gain a clearer picture of the academic performance of admitted students, let's examine the average scores for each ACT section:

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Composite Score: The average composite ACT score at NC State hovers around 30, significantly higher than the national average of approximately 19.5.
English: The average ACT English score is about 30, with the 25th and 75th percentiles at 25 and 34, respectively.
Math: The average ACT Math score is around 28, with the 25th and 75th percentiles falling between 26 and 32.

NC State's Test-Optional Policy

For applicants with a weighted GPA of 2.8 or above, NC State has maintained a test-optional policy. This means that submitting ACT or SAT scores is not mandatory for these students.

Impact of the Test-Optional Policy

In 2025, 54% of North Carolina public school 11th graders earned an ACT composite score of 17 or higher.
Among students admitted to NC State, only 27% submitted ACT scores, and 25% submitted SAT scores. A significant 48% chose not to submit standardized test scores.
Choosing not to submit scores will not negatively impact an applicant, but submitting a good score can strengthen the application.

Should You Submit Your ACT Score?

If your ACT scores fall within or above the 25th to 75th percentile ranges for NC State (25-32), submitting them could enhance your application. However, if your weighted GPA is 2.8 or higher and you are not satisfied with your ACT score, you can choose not to submit it.

NC State's Superscore Policy

NC State superscores the ACT, meaning they consider the highest scores in each section across all test dates to create a superscore. This policy can significantly benefit students who take the ACT multiple times.

How to Leverage Superscoring

Take the ACT Multiple Times: You can take the ACT as many times as you like and only submit the tests that give you the highest superscore.
Focus on Individual Sections: Concentrate your preparation on one section at a time. If your Reading score is lower, focus on improving it before retaking the ACT. Then, move on to Math or other sections.

The ACT in North Carolina: State-Level Perspective

Since the 2012-13 school year, the ACT has been administered to all 11th graders in North Carolina. A composite score of 17 or higher is considered college-ready, meeting the minimum requirement for admission to one of the University of North Carolina System's 17 university campuses.

Key Trends in North Carolina ACT Scores

Students from urban and suburban counties are more likely to score 17 or higher on the ACT composite.
Asian and White students tend to have higher ACT scores compared to other racial or ethnic groups.
Economically disadvantaged students are less likely to achieve a score of 17 or higher.

Minimum ACT Score for UNC System Admission

From the 2012-13 to 2020-21 school years, the minimum ACT composite score for UNC admission was 17.
From 2021-22 to 2023-24, the minimum score was 19.
In the 2024-25 school year, there was no minimum score, but the NC Department of Instruction reported composite scores of 17 or higher.
Beginning in fall 2026, the minimum ACT composite score for UNC admission will revert to 17.
Students with a GPA below 2.8 need to submit their scores.

GPA and Its Role in Admissions

The average GPA at NC State is 3.83, indicating that admitted students are typically near the top of their class. If your GPA is below this average, a strong ACT score can compensate and demonstrate your academic readiness.

Read also: NOCCCD: Your Guide

GPA Considerations

GPA Range: The majority of admitted students have a GPA of 3.75 or higher.
GPA and Test Scores: If your GPA is at or below the school average of 3.83, a higher ACT score can help offset this.

Understanding the Application Process

To increase your chances of admission to NC State, keep the following application requirements in mind:

High School GPA: Required
High School Rank: Required
College Prep Courses: Required
SAT/ACT Scores: Considered if submitted
Recommendations: Considered if submitted

The regular application deadline is June 1.

The Importance of Holistic Review

NC State employs a holistic review process, evaluating applicants based on a variety of factors, including academic performance, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. While ACT scores are considered, they are not the sole determining factor in admissions decisions.

Factors Considered in Holistic Review

Coursework difficulty
Extracurricular involvement
Letters of recommendation
Personal statements

Strategies to Improve Your ACT Score

Prepare Thoroughly: Utilize resources like PrepScholar to customize your preparation based on your strengths and weaknesses.
Take Practice Tests: Familiarize yourself with the ACT format and content by taking practice tests.
Focus on Weak Areas: Identify your weak areas and dedicate extra time to improving those sections.
Retake the ACT: Take advantage of NC State's superscore policy by retaking the ACT multiple times and focusing on improving individual section scores.

Read also: Academic Pathways at UNC

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