Carolina University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
Carolina University’s average entering GPA is around 3.0, but a 39.5% admit rate means you should still give admissions a clear academic signal. Even though the school is test-optional, submitting an SAT or ACT score above its typical range can strengthen your case and help distinguish you from similar-GPA applicants.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Carolina University facts and stats
Carolina University is a small urban institution with an undergraduate enrollment of 470 students. Carolina University has a freshman retention rate of 56% and a 6-year graduation rate of 21%. The student-to-faculty ratio is 17:1.
Winston-Salem, NC
How does your GPA compare at Carolina University?

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Key Carolina University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
—
Early Action
Not offered
Early Decision
Not offered
Priority Deadline
—
Financial Aid Priority
March 1
Test dates
August 22, 2026
Registration deadline: August 7, 2026
September 12, 2026
Registration deadline: August 28, 2026
October 3, 2026
Registration deadline: September 18, 2026
September 19, 2026
Registration deadline: August 14, 2026
October 17, 2026
Registration deadline: September 11, 2026
December 12, 2026
Registration deadline: November 6, 2026
Because Carolina University is test-optional, use this timeline only if you choose to submit scores. Take your first SAT or ACT by spring of junior year, then use the summer before senior year and the fall for superscore-focused retakes that will arrive by the Regular Decision deadline.
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What you'll actually pay
Carolina University is a private not-for-profit, so the same rate applies to all students. Tuition and fees are $16,000, with 91% of students receiving aid and an average merit award of $2,708. Submit the FAFSA by the March 1 priority deadline.

Carolina University’s listed cost of attendance is about $28,400, including $16,000 in tuition and fees and $12,400 for room and board. Financial aid is common, with 91% of students receiving aid and an average aid package of $8,055. The average merit award is $2,708, which can help reduce costs for qualifying students.
Student life at Carolina University
12% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: No guarantee
No fraternity or sorority life on campus.
Similar schools
South Piedmont Community College
Polkton, NCAppalachian State University
Boone, NCAcceptance rate: 90.1%
SAT: 1140–1270
ACT: 21–27
Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Asheville, NCAcceptance rate: 88.6%
Barton College
Wilson, NCAcceptance rate: 94.2%
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