About North Carolina State University
North Carolina State University is a public research university in Raleigh, North Carolina, United States, established in 1887. NC State in Raleigh is a public research university and part of North Carolina’s Research Triangle. It is known for engineering, textiles, agriculture and veterinary medicine, and its Centennial Campus hosts industry and government partners.
International students from all over the world study at NC State, supported by international student offices, career services and a large alumni network.
NC State ranking
In the QS World University Rankings 2026, North Carolina State University is ranked #272 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 NC State?
- Ranked #272 in the QS World University Rankings 2026
- Part of the Research Triangle
- Centennial Campus with industry partners
- Poole College of Management
- Eligible for OPT work after graduation (STEM OPT extension for eligible STEM degrees)
Popular courses at NC State
NC State offers undergraduate (bachelor’s), graduate (master’s and professional) and doctoral (PhD) programs. Subject areas popular with international students include:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Business
- Mathematics
- Biology
- Physics
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.
NC State admission requirements for international students
- Undergraduate: apply through the Common App or the NC State application 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).
NC State tuition fees and cost of living
Tuition: Approx. $28,000 – $36,000 per year (international undergraduate tuition and fees; 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 NC State
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 NC State
GIEC Global offers free counselling, university and course shortlisting, SOP and essay guidance, application support and F-1 visa preparation for North Carolina State University.
