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Appalachian State University and North Carolina Central University are both public institutions — Appalachian State University in Boone, NC and North Carolina Central University in Durham, NC. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Boone, NC · Public
Acceptance rate: 90.1%
Undergrad enrollment: 19,444
Tuition: $25,212/year
Student-faculty ratio: 16.0:1
Graduation rate: 74.5%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Psychology
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Boone, NC with published program strength in Business and marketing and Biological sciences.
Durham, NC · Public
Acceptance rate: 87.0%
Undergrad enrollment: 6,081
Tuition: $19,735/year
Student-faculty ratio: 16.0:1
Graduation rate: 41.6%
Top programs: Social sciences, Business and marketing, Security and law enforcement
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Durham, NC with published program strength in Social sciences and Business and marketing.
| Factor | Appalachian State University | North Carolina Central University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 90.1% | 87.0% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1120–1280 |
| 1050 average |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 21–27 | 19–22 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 19,444 | 6,081 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $25,212/year | $19,735/year |
| Average net price after aid | $16,836 | $15,359 |
| Graduation rate | 74.5% | 41.6% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $51,836 | $42,968 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 16.0:1 | 16.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Boone, NC | Durham, NC |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Psychology | Social sciences, Business and marketing, Security and law enforcement |
North Carolina Central University is more selective (87.0% vs 90.1% acceptance rate). North Carolina Central University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($15,359 vs $16,836). Appalachian State University reports the higher graduation rate (74.5% vs 41.6%). Appalachian State University is the larger undergraduate campus (19,444 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Appalachian State University and North Carolina Central University
Appalachian State University has an acceptance rate of 90.1%; North Carolina Central University is around 87.0%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Appalachian State University tuition is $25,212/year. North Carolina Central University is $19,735/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
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