Chapel Hill, North Carolina, September 17, 2025
News Summary
The University of North Carolina System announces a significant increase in student enrollment for Fall, reaching a record 256,438 students, marking a 3.4% rise from the previous year. Fayetteville State University led with the highest growth, while some campuses faced challenges. The UNC System’s commitment to maintaining in-state tuition continues amidst evolving dynamics in higher education.
Chapel Hill, North Carolina — The University of North Carolina (UNC) System announced record enrollment numbers for Fall 2025, with 256,438 students enrolled. This figure marks a 3.4% increase from the previous year, which had nearly 248,000 students. The substantial one-year gain also surpasses the total enrollment figures of seven out of the UNC System’s 16 campuses.
This year’s increase follows a year of modest growth in 2024, where the UNC System saw a 2.2% increase, reversing two consecutive years of declining enrollment. Various campuses have contributed to this upward trend with notable increases. Fayetteville State University led the way with the highest increase at 7.3%, bringing its total to 7,623 students. Similarly, N.C. Central University grew by 6.8% to reach 9,160 students, while N.C. A&T State University reported a 6.7% growth, totaling 15,275 students.
The three largest campuses in the UNC System also showcased significant enrollment gains. NC State University recorded an increase of 2.1%, reaching 39,259 students. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill saw a growth of 5.1% with 34,099 students, and UNC Charlotte’s enrollment grew by 3.6%, totaling 32,207 students.
However, not all campuses experienced growth. UNC Asheville faced a 6% drop in enrollment to 2,874 students, primarily due to the impact of Hurricane Helene, which forced the campus to close for 33 days during a critical recruitment period. In contrast, East Carolina University reported a minimal increase of 0.8%, equating to 27,153 students, but it plans to implement $25 million in budget cuts over the next three years amid ongoing enrollment challenges.
The UNC System has maintained in-state undergraduate tuition rates for nine consecutive years, largely due to increased state funding. Acceptance rates across various campuses have also expanded, allowing institutions with strong demand to exceed the state’s traditional 18% cap on out-of-state enrollment. N.C. Central and A&T universities have a cap of 35% for out-of-state students, while Fayetteville State can enroll up to 25%. Notably, the 18% cap on out-of-state students remains in place for UNC Chapel Hill, NC State, Charlotte, Appalachian State, and UNC Wilmington.
Despite the overall positive enrollment figures for the UNC System, challenges remain at UNC Asheville, which is dealing with budget shortfalls that adversely affect its funding initiatives. Nevertheless, UNC System officials express optimism regarding the enrollment numbers, emphasizing the consistent demand for a UNC System education amidst broader national trends affecting higher education.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the total enrollment for the UNC System in Fall 2025?
The UNC System reported a record enrollment of 256,438 students for Fall 2025.
How much did enrollment increase from the previous year?
This figure represents a 3.4% increase from the previous year, which had an enrollment of nearly 248,000 students.
Which university saw the largest increase in enrollment?
Fayetteville State University saw the largest increase at 7.3%, bringing its total to 7,623 students.
What impact did Hurricane Helene have on enrollment?
UNC Asheville experienced a 6% drop in enrollment, down to 2,874 students, largely attributed to Hurricane Helene’s impact.
How has the UNC System addressed tuition for in-state students?
The UNC System has maintained in-state undergraduate tuition for nine consecutive years, supported by increased state funding.
What challenges is East Carolina University facing regarding enrollment?
East Carolina University saw a minimal increase of 0.8% and plans to implement $25 million in budget cuts over three years due to enrollment challenges.
| University | Fall 2025 Enrollment | Annual Growth Rate |
|---|---|---|
| UNC System Total | 256,438 | 3.4% |
| Fayetteville State University | 7,623 | 7.3% |
| N.C. Central University | 9,160 | 6.8% |
| N.C. A&T State University | 15,275 | 6.7% |
| NC State | 39,259 | 2.1% |
| UNC Chapel Hill | 34,099 | 5.1% |
| UNC Charlotte | 32,207 | 3.6% |
| East Carolina University | 27,153 | 0.8% |
| UNC Asheville | 2,874 | -6.0% |
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Additional Resources
- Business North Carolina
- QC News
- News & Observer
- WFMY News 2
- Carolina Journal
- Wikipedia: University of North Carolina System
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