About University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is a public research university in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States, established in 1789. UNC Chapel Hill is one of the oldest public universities in the United States. It is known for public health (Gillings School), business (Kenan-Flagler), medicine and journalism, and is part of the Research Triangle.
International students from all over the world study at UNC Chapel Hill, supported by international student offices, career services and a large alumni network.
UNC Chapel Hill ranking
In the QS World University Rankings 2026, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is ranked #140 in the world. Rankings look at academic reputation, employer reputation, research citations and international outlook — also check the subject ranking for your chosen course.
Why study at UNC Chapel Hill?
- Ranked #140 in the QS World University Rankings 2026
- One of the oldest public universities in the US
- Gillings School of Global Public Health
- Kenan-Flagler Business School
- Eligible for OPT work after graduation (STEM OPT extension for eligible STEM degrees)
Popular courses at UNC Chapel Hill
UNC Chapel Hill offers undergraduate (bachelor’s), graduate (master’s and professional) and doctoral (PhD) programs. Subject areas popular with international students include:
- Business
- Public Health
- Medicine (MD)
- Law (JD)
- Computer Science
- Economics
US bachelor’s degrees usually take four years and include general education courses before you choose a major. Master’s degrees usually take one to two years, and PhDs typically five to six years.
UNC Chapel Hill admission requirements for international students
- Undergraduate: apply through the Common App with your Class 12 / high-school transcripts, essays, teacher recommendations and proof of English. SAT/ACT policies vary — check the current testing policy.
- Graduate: apply directly to the program with a bachelor’s degree, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, CV and English test scores; some programs ask for the GRE or GMAT.
- English: TOEFL iBT around 80–100 or IELTS Academic 6.5–7.0 (requirements vary by program).
UNC Chapel Hill tuition fees and cost of living
Tuition: Approx. $35,000 – $50,000 per year (non-resident / international undergraduate tuition; varies by program). Graduate and professional programs (MBA, JD, MD) have their own fees. On top of tuition, budget for housing, food, health insurance, books and travel. To get your I-20 you must show funds that cover the estimated cost of the first year.
Intakes and application deadlines
Fall (August) — main intake; Spring (January) for selected programs. Undergraduate early deadlines are usually in November and regular deadlines in early January; many graduate programs close between December and February for Fall entry. Always confirm dates on the official website.
Scholarships and financial aid at UNC Chapel Hill
Limited merit scholarships for international undergraduates; graduate students can apply for teaching and research assistantships. Check the financial aid and graduate school pages for eligibility and deadlines.
F-1 student visa and work after graduation
After you accept an offer and show proof of funds, the university issues a Form I-20. You then pay the SEVIS I-901 fee and apply for an F-1 student visa at a US embassy or consulate.
F-1 students can usually work on campus up to 20 hours a week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks. After graduation, Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows up to 12 months of work, and graduates of eligible STEM degrees can apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension. Immigration rules can change, so always check the latest official guidance.
How GIEC Global helps you get into UNC Chapel Hill
GIEC Global offers free counselling, university and course shortlisting, SOP and essay guidance, application support and F-1 visa preparation for University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
