What qualities does UNC value in its applicants?

Hi guys. I'm looking into applying to UNC, but I'm not super clear on what exactly they're looking for in their applicants. Does anyone have any info on the key qualities and characteristics that really catch UNC's eye? Any advice would be awesome!

UNC Chapel Hill adopts a holistic review process, meaning they consider all aspects of your application, not just one piece. Here are a few key aspects that UNC values:

1. Academic Accomplishments: This includes your GPA, the rigor of your coursework (AP, IB, etc.), and your class rank if your school provides one. They want to see that you've challenged yourself academically and excelled.

2. Extracurricular Engagement: UNC recognizes the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars, with preference for students who have demonstrated commitment and leadership in Tiers 1-3, such as student government, regional or national clubs, or competitive sports teams. Volunteering, working, and other forms of community involvement (Tier 4) are also valued, but are more impressive when combined with higher-tiered activities.

3. Essays: Your application essays should communicate your interests, personality, and how you envision contributing to UNC. They're your platform to display qualities like creativity, thoughtfulness, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to the community.

UNC Chapel Hill remains test-optional for the current application cycle, but will require a standardized test score if your GPA is below 2.8 on a 4.0 scale. If your GPA is 2.8 or higher, you can submit your SAT or ACT scores if you believe they offer a positive reflection of your academic abilities, but you're not obligated to do so.

Remember, UNC, like many institutions, will not only be looking at your achievements but also how these activities and experiences have shaped you as an individual. The narrative you tell in your essays about how you've grown and what you've learned can give you an edge in the admissions process.

Demonstrated interest doesn't impact admission decisions at UNC, so visiting the school or joining an info session won't directly boost your chances. However, these activities can help you understand the school better and thus write a more convincing application.

Lastly, if you're applying out-of-state, be aware that UNC has a cap on the number of out-of-state students it can admit each year, making the competition even tougher for those applicants. Best of luck!