How competitive are UNCW's admissions?

I'm considering applying to UNC Wilmington and was wondering how competitive their admissions are. Do they have specific requirements that really matter or anything unique in their application process?

University of North Carolina at Wilmington (UNCW) admissions can be considered moderately competitive. The university accepts a substantial number of students every year, but it still has certain criteria that its applicants need to meet.

One of its major factors of consideration is a student's academic performance in high school. UNCW looks at rigor of coursework (honors, AP, IB, etc.), grades, and trend in grades. For instance, an upward trend in GPA is seen positively, as it shows improvement over time.

For the 2024-2025 application cycle, UNCW has opted to stay test-optional due to the disruptions caused by the SAT and ACT transitioning to digital formats. That means you can choose whether or not to submit your SAT or ACT scores as part of your application. If you do opt to include your scores, they will be considered, but not submitting them will not disadvantage your application.

UNCW employs a holistic review process, so they are interested in more than just your grades and test scores. They place a lot of emphasis on extracurricular involvement, leadership roles, and community service. They are looking for students who are active beyond the classroom and contribute positively to their community.

In terms of unique requirements or steps in the application process, UNCW doesn't hold any specific unique aspects. They utilize the Common Application, making the process fairly straightforward. One key part of the UNCW application, however, is the personal essay. This is your chance to showcase who you are beyond grades and test scores, which is why it’s so important to put some effort into your essay and allow your personality to shine through.

There isn't a magic formula for admission, but a mix of solid academic performance, extracurricular activities, and a well-written personal essay would make a competitive application. Good luck!