University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill enrollment advice?

I'm aiming to apply to UNC Chapel Hill and I'm a little worried about the enrollment process. Does anyone have insights on how competitive it is to get in and what the admissions team looks for in applicants?

UNC-Chapel Hill is a selective institution, so there is a competitive admissions process. While the specifics of each applicant's review may vary, there are several key elements that the admissions team generally looks for.

Firstly, academics are understandably pivotal. Successful applicants generally perform well in a rigorous curriculum. UNC-Chapel Hill, like many universities, will review your high school transcripts to judge not just the grades achieved, but also the rigor of the courses taken. Advanced Placement (AP) or Honors courses may benefit your application as they show a willingness to push yourself academically.

In addition to the rigor of your high school courses, your GPA is crucial. The mid-50% unweighted GPA for UNC-Chapel Hill's acceptance typically hovers around 3.7 to 4.0. Remember, this doesn't mean you can't get in outside of this range, but students within this range are generally the most competitive academically.

For students applying for the 2025-2026 academic year, students with a weighted GPA of 2.8 or above (on a 4.0 scale) are not required to submit a test score. If you do decide to submit test scores, the middle 50% SAT scores for accepted students range between 1270 and 1460, and for the ACT, it is between 29 and 33.

Let's also remember extracurricular activities, another important aspect of your application. Engaging in a few activities where you've shown commitment, and leadership, or achieved some level of prominence can give a boost to your application. For instance, holding a leadership position in a club or being deeply involved in community service can demonstrate skills such as teamwork and initiative.

Finally, your essays will play a significant role. They're a chance for the admissions committee to get to know you beyond your numbers. Sharing vivid experiences and personal reflections can make your application stand out. Avoid clichés and aim to share compelling stories that reveal who you are as a person, what you value, and what you can contribute to UNC Chapel Hill.

Remember, these are general guidelines, and applications are reviewed holistically, where various elements are comprehensively considered. It's also recommended to meet with your school counselor or a trusted mentor to review your application strategy and personal circumstances. Good luck!