How competitive is UNCA admissions?

Hey y'all, rising high school senior here. I've been looking into University of North Carolina Asheville (UNCA) but I'm a bit in the dark about how difficult it is to get in. What's their acceptance rate like? What stats or extracurriculars do they like to see?

The University of North Carolina Asheville (UNCA) has a moderate acceptance rate, generally around 94%. As such, it's more accessible compared to many institutions, but that's not to say you can't strengthen your application with good academics and extracurriculars.

When it comes to academic performance, GPA and course rigor matter. The average GPA of admitted students tends to be around 3.4, so aiming for a solid GPA will be beneficial. Additionally, taking a challenging course load with honors, AP/IB courses, or dual enrollment can help to indicate your academic abilities. Although UNCA is test-optional, it can be helpful to know the middle 50% statistics for the SAT and ACT, which were 1180 to 1330 and 22 to 29, respectively.

In terms of extracurricular activities, bear in mind that quality is more important than quantity. Ideally, you should demonstrate commitment and leadership in the activities you pursue. This can range from being a team captain, club president, community leader, or having notable achievements in your interest areas. UNCA is also known for its commitment to environmental sustainability, so demonstrating interest or experience in this area could make your application more compelling.

Remember, every college looks for students who will contribute positively to its community. Telling a compelling story about your experiences, passions, and how you could contribute to the UNCA community could give you an edge in the process. It's always a good idea to tailor your application to the specific values and qualities that UNCA looks for in its students.