2026 College Rankings

Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina

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The two-year student loan default rate measures how many graduates from the institution go into default on their student loans with two years of graduation. This is a complicated metric with many factors, but in general colleges and universities with high student loan default rates may indicate that students have trouble finding employment or well-paying jobs after college. This may mean that the institution has a less-established reputation with employers or that it graduates a higher percentage of students with degrees in lower-wage fields of study.

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Rank	Institution	Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year)	Acceptance Rate	SAT Score	Your Est. Net Price Avg. Net Price	Median Starting Salary	Save
1	Duke University	0.8	5.71	1,520 – 1,560	23422	85792	#1 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Duke University Durham, NC Methodists and Quakers founded Duke University in 1838. The school has produced 50 Rhodes Scholars, three Turing Award winners, and 15 Noble laureates. Known as the Blue Devils, the university’s colors are Duke blue and white....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 0.8 % Acceptance Rate 5.7% SAT Score 1,520 – 1,560 Avg. Net Price $23,422 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $85,792
2	Wake Forest University	0.8	21.56	1,410 – 1,510	27790	67722	#2 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Wake Forest University Winston-Salem, NC Based in Winston-Salem, Wake Forest University accepts 22% of applicants. They require $85 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 34% of students at Wake Forest University currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 0.8 % Acceptance Rate 21.6% SAT Score 1,410 – 1,510 Avg. Net Price $27,790 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $67,722
3	Davidson College	1.5	13.37	1,400 – 1,520	26510	62866	#3 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Davidson College Davidson, NC Davidson College was founded in 1837 and started trying to reduce the cost of higher education for students by the 1850’s. Today, the school meets students’ financial needs through grants, employment, and more. 65% of students receive institutional grant aid....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 1.5 % Acceptance Rate 13.4% SAT Score 1,400 – 1,520 Avg. Net Price $26,510 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $62,866
4	University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill	1.5	15.34	1,350 – 1,520	11140	57057	#4 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, NC The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is the flagship of the state’s school system. Enrolling students in 1795, it’s also one of the oldest public schools in the United States. UNC became coeducational in 1877 and began admitting African-American graduate students in 1951. Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 1.5 % Acceptance Rate 15.3% SAT Score 1,350 – 1,520 Avg. Net Price $11,140 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $57,057
5	Elon University	2	66.35	1,150 – 1,340	41849	58082	#5 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Elon University Elon, NC Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 2.0 % Acceptance Rate 66.4% SAT Score 1,150 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $41,849 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $58,082
6	Carolinas College of Health Sciences	2.7	81.48	920 – 1,110	0	59817	#6 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Carolinas College of Health Sciences Charlotte, NC Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 2.7 % Acceptance Rate 81.5% SAT Score 920 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $0 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $59,817
7	Meredith College	3.2	74.18	1,130 – 1,350	23405	45293	#7 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Meredith College Raleigh, NC Meredith College is a private women’s liberal arts school, but its graduate program does admit men. It offers 42 majors and programs, with many choosing to study Biology/Biological Sciences, General. Athletes are known as the Avenging Angels, and they participate in the USA South Athletic Conference. Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 3.2 % Acceptance Rate 74.2% SAT Score 1,130 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $23,405 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,293
8	North Carolina State University	3.2	41.67	1,240 – 1,450	14860	57623	#8 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina North Carolina State University Raleigh, NC The North Carolina State University at Raleigh is part of the Research Triangle with Duke University and the University of North Carolina. The school has a 15 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio and a 93% first year retention rate....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 3.2 % Acceptance Rate 41.7% SAT Score 1,240 – 1,450 Avg. Net Price $14,860 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $57,623
9	Queens University of Charlotte	3.6	56.51	1,150 – 1,320	27178	48170	#9 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Queens University of Charlotte Charlotte, NC Found in Charlotte, Queens University of Charlotte accepts 57% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 99% of students attending Queens University of Charlotte currently receive grant aid from the school. At Queens University of Charlotte, there is a 73% first year retention rate and a......Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 3.6 % Acceptance Rate 56.5% SAT Score 1,150 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $27,178 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,170
10	Appalachian State University	3.7	90.14	1,040 – 1,280	14712	43663	#10 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Appalachian State University Boone, NC Found in Boone, Appalachian State University accepted 90% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges $65 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 45% of students at Appalachian State University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 3.7 % Acceptance Rate 90.1% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,280 Avg. Net Price $14,712 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,663
11	Wingate University	4.3	91.13	990 – 1,210	21464	43992	#11 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Wingate University Wingate, NC Based in Wingate, Wingate University accepted 91% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 97% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 4.3 % Acceptance Rate 91.1% SAT Score 990 – 1,210 Avg. Net Price $21,464 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,992
12	Campbell University	4.4	87.2	1,020 – 1,220	24517	45511	#12 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Campbell University Buies Creek, NC Based in Buies Creek, Campbell University accepts 87% of applicants. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications. About 100% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 4.4 % Acceptance Rate 87.2% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $24,517 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $45,511
13	East Carolina University	4.7	89.22	1,020 – 1,220	14470	46420	#13 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina East Carolina University Greenville, NC Found in Greenville, East Carolina University accepted 89% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge $75 for undergraduate applications. About 47% of students attending East Carolina University currently receive institutional grant aid. At East Carolina University, there is a 82% first year......Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 4.7 % Acceptance Rate 89.2% SAT Score 1,020 – 1,220 Avg. Net Price $14,470 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,420
14	Warren Wilson College	4.7	77.71	1,210 – 1,370	27913	27723	#14 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Warren Wilson College Swannanoa, NC Located in Swannanoa, Warren Wilson College’s acceptance rate is 78%. They request unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 99% of students at Warren Wilson College will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 4.7 % Acceptance Rate 77.7% SAT Score 1,210 – 1,370 Avg. Net Price $27,913 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $27,723
15	University of North Carolina School of the Arts	4.9	33.08	1,170 – 1,320	11163	24537	#15 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina University of North Carolina School of the Arts Winston Salem, NC The University of North Carolina School of the Arts accepts only 33% of applicants. 47% of those accepted will go on to attend the following fall. It has a whopping 6 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio and an 87% first year retention rate....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 4.9 % Acceptance Rate 33.1% SAT Score 1,170 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $11,163 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $24,537
16	Montreat College	5	65.55	970 – 1,140	26294	39763	#16 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Montreat College Montreat, NC Located in Montreat, Montreat College accepted 66% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 99% of students attending Montreat College will receive grant aid from the school....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 5.0 % Acceptance Rate 65.6% SAT Score 970 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $26,294 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,763
17	University of North Carolina at Charlotte	5	79.6	1,110 – 1,320	13768	48812	#17 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina University of North Carolina at Charlotte Charlotte, NC Based in Charlotte, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte accepts 80% of applicants. They request $75 for undergraduate applications. About 47% of students at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The first year retention rate is......Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 5.0 % Acceptance Rate 79.6% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,320 Avg. Net Price $13,768 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $48,812
18	Carolina University	5.6	34	850 – 1,140	19111	30657	#18 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Carolina University Winston-Salem, NC Located in Winston-Salem, Carolina University accepted 34% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges $55 for undergraduate applications. About 99% of students at Carolina University currently receive grant aid from the school. 58% of students decide to stay at Carolina University after......Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 5.6 % Acceptance Rate 34.0% SAT Score 850 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $19,111 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $30,657
19	University of North Carolina at Greensboro	5.6	88.51	1,120 – 1,290	10592	39869	#19 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina University of North Carolina at Greensboro Greensboro, NC Based in Greensboro, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro accepted 89% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge $65 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 81% of students attending the University of North Carolina at Greensboro will receive institutional grant aid. At the......Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 5.6 % Acceptance Rate 88.5% SAT Score 1,120 – 1,290 Avg. Net Price $10,592 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,869
20	University of North Carolina Wilmington	5.8	64.24	1,200 – 1,340	18606	46972	#20 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina University of North Carolina Wilmington Wilmington, NC Located in Wilmington, the University of North Carolina Wilmington accepted 64% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges $80 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 50% of students attending the University of North Carolina Wilmington currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 5.8 % Acceptance Rate 64.2% SAT Score 1,200 – 1,340 Avg. Net Price $18,606 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $46,972
21	Gardner-Webb University	5.9	87.02	980 – 1,190	24035	43996	#21 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Gardner-Webb University Boiling Springs, NC Located in Boiling Springs, Gardner-Webb University accepts 87% of applicants and requests $40 to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 99% of students at Gardner-Webb University currently receive institutional grant aid. At Gardner-Webb University, there is a 66% first year retention rate and a 36% four year......Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 5.9 % Acceptance Rate 87.0% SAT Score 980 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $24,035 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,996
22	Salem College	5.9	78.9	980 – 1,180	19000	38496	#22 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Salem College Winston-Salem, NC Found in Winston-Salem, Salem College accepts 79% of applicants and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 99% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. The college’s first year retention rate is 68% and 66% of students will graduate in......Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 5.9 % Acceptance Rate 78.9% SAT Score 980 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $19,000 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $38,496
23	Barton College	6.5	94.2	950 – 1,150	23804	40785	#23 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Barton College Wilson, NC Found in Wilson, Barton College’s acceptance rate is 94%. They require unknown for undergraduate applications. About 100% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid. The school’s first year retention rate is 65% and around 44% of students will graduate in four years or less. Three popular areas of study among......Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 6.5 % Acceptance Rate 94.2% SAT Score 950 – 1,150 Avg. Net Price $23,804 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,785
24	Brevard College	6.7	39.46	940 – 1,130	26938	34401	#24 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Brevard College Brevard, NC Found in Brevard, Brevard College accepts 39% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of students attending Brevard College currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 6.7 % Acceptance Rate 39.5% SAT Score 940 – 1,130 Avg. Net Price $26,938 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $34,401
25	Guilford College	6.8	83.76	900 – 1,150	22620	40401	#25 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Guilford College Greensboro, NC Located in Greensboro, Guilford College accepted 84% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to send in unknown to apply. Approximately 100% of students at Guilford College will receive institutional grant aid....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 6.8 % Acceptance Rate 83.8% SAT Score 900 – 1,150 Avg. Net Price $22,620 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,401
26	Lees-McRae College	6.8	76.85	1,040 – 1,240	26009	41599	#26 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Lees-McRae College Banner Elk, NC Located in Banner Elk, Lees-McRae College’s acceptance rate is 77%. They charge $25 for undergraduate applications and . About 100% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 6.8 % Acceptance Rate 76.9% SAT Score 1,040 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $26,009 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $41,599
27	Western Carolina University	6.9	81.8	1,030 – 1,230	12252	43085	#27 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Western Carolina University Cullowhee, NC Based in Cullowhee, Western Carolina University’s acceptance rate is 82%. They request $65 for undergraduate applications, but some schools offer fee waivers. About 69% of students attending Western Carolina University will receive grant aid from the school....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 6.9 % Acceptance Rate 81.8% SAT Score 1,030 – 1,230 Avg. Net Price $12,252 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,085
28	University of Mount Olive	7	77.75	850 – 1,040	17893	43026	#28 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina University of Mount Olive Mount Olive, NC Found in Mount Olive, the University of Mount Olive accepts 78% of applicants and requires unknown for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 96% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 7.0 % Acceptance Rate 77.8% SAT Score 850 – 1,040 Avg. Net Price $17,893 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,026
29	High Point University	7.1	76.83	1,110 – 1,310	43578	50955	#29 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina High Point University High Point, NC Located in High Point, High Point University’s acceptance rate is 77%. They charge $50 for undergraduate applications and $50 for graduate applications. Approximately 89% of students at High Point University will receive institutional grant aid. At High Point University, there is a 81% first year retention rate and 65% of......Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 7.1 % Acceptance Rate 76.8% SAT Score 1,110 – 1,310 Avg. Net Price $43,578 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $50,955
30	Methodist University	7.2	75.2	1,100 – 1,250	25786	40540	#30 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Methodist University Fayetteville, NC Located in Fayetteville, Methodist University accepted 75% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges $50 for undergraduate applications. About 99% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. 62% of students decide to stay at......Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 7.2 % Acceptance Rate 75.2% SAT Score 1,100 – 1,250 Avg. Net Price $25,786 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,540
31	William Peace University	7.2	94.25	1,100 – 1,240	24503	39738	#31 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina William Peace University Raleigh, NC Found in Raleigh, William Peace University accepts 94% of applicants. They charge unknown for undergraduate applications, but some students qualify for fee waivers. About 100% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 7.2 % Acceptance Rate 94.3% SAT Score 1,100 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $24,503 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $39,738
32	Greensboro College	7.3	70.14	900 – 1,110	19783	36462	#32 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Greensboro College Greensboro, NC Found in Greensboro, Greensboro College accepts 70% of applicants and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. Approximately 98% of attending students will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 7.3 % Acceptance Rate 70.1% SAT Score 900 – 1,110 Avg. Net Price $19,783 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,462
33	University of North Carolina Asheville	7.4	91.94	1,160 – 1,350	14175	36947	#33 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina University of North Carolina Asheville Asheville, NC Found in Asheville, the University of North Carolina Asheville accepted 92% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They charge $75 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 90% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 7.4 % Acceptance Rate 91.9% SAT Score 1,160 – 1,350 Avg. Net Price $14,175 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,947
34	Galen Health Institutes-Asheville	7.6	0	--	75993	58951	#34 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Galen Health Institutes-Asheville Asheville, NC Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 7.6 % Acceptance Rate -- SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $75,993 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $58,951
35	Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte	7.7	79.89	890 – 1,140	29481	35802	#35 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Johnson & Wales University-Charlotte Charlotte, NC Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 7.7 % Acceptance Rate 79.9% SAT Score 890 – 1,140 Avg. Net Price $29,481 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,802
36	Pfeiffer University	7.9	91.26	800 – 1,080	21402	44621	#36 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Pfeiffer University Misenheimer, NC Located in Misenheimer, Pfeiffer University’s acceptance rate is 91%. Undergraduates have to send in unknown to apply. About 99% of attending students currently receive grant aid from the school. 67% of students continued their studies at Pfeiffer University after completing their first year....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 7.9 % Acceptance Rate 91.3% SAT Score 800 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $21,402 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,621
37	Lenoir-Rhyne University	9.3	80.68	970 – 1,180	24042	44799	#37 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Lenoir-Rhyne University Hickory, NC Located in Hickory, Lenoir-Rhyne University’s acceptance rate is 81%. They request $35 for undergraduate applications. About 100% of students attending Lenoir-Rhyne University currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 9.3 % Acceptance Rate 80.7% SAT Score 970 – 1,180 Avg. Net Price $24,042 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $44,799
38	Catawba College	9.6	75.21	960 – 1,240	18319	36912	#38 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Catawba College Salisbury, NC Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 9.6 % Acceptance Rate 75.2% SAT Score 960 – 1,240 Avg. Net Price $18,319 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,912
39	Fayetteville State University	9.7	79.89	810 – 1,020	7298	37831	#39 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Fayetteville State University Fayetteville, NC Found in Fayetteville, Fayetteville State University accepted 80% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges $50 for undergraduate applications. Approximately 63% of students at Fayetteville State University currently receive institutional grant aid. 78% of students continued their studies at......Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 9.7 % Acceptance Rate 79.9% SAT Score 810 – 1,020 Avg. Net Price $7,298 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,831
40	St. Andrews University	11.6	30.48	890 – 1,080	31503	37691	#40 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina St. Andrews University Laurinburg, NC Located in Laurinburg, St- Andrews University’s acceptance rate is 30%. They charge $35 for undergraduate applications and . Approximately 93% of students attending St- Andrews University will receive institutional grant aid. On average, these students receive $15,378 each. The first year retention rate is 42%....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 11.6 % Acceptance Rate 30.5% SAT Score 890 – 1,080 Avg. Net Price $31,503 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,691
41	Miller-Motte College-Wilmington	11.7	75.2	--	22769	26349	#41 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Miller-Motte College-Wilmington Wilmington, NC Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 11.7 % Acceptance Rate 75.2% SAT Score -- Avg. Net Price $22,769 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $26,349
42	University of North Carolina at Pembroke	11.9	93.35	890 – 1,090	9687	37126	#42 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina University of North Carolina at Pembroke Pembroke, NC Located in Pembroke, the University of North Carolina at Pembroke accepted 93% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request $55 for undergraduate applications and $55 for graduate applications. About 42% of students at the University of North Carolina at Pembroke currently receive grant aid from......Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 11.9 % Acceptance Rate 93.4% SAT Score 890 – 1,090 Avg. Net Price $9,687 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $37,126
43	Winston-Salem State University	12.1	78.26	850 – 1,040	12948	40557	#43 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Winston-Salem State University Winston-Salem, NC Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 12.1 % Acceptance Rate 78.3% SAT Score 850 – 1,040 Avg. Net Price $12,948 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $40,557
44	Belmont Abbey College	12.4	90.38	960 – 1,190	23463	43816	#44 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Belmont Abbey College Belmont, NC Found in Belmont, Belmont Abbey College’s acceptance rate is 90% and requests unknown to apply, but fee waivers may be available. About 99% of students attending Belmont Abbey College will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 12.4 % Acceptance Rate 90.4% SAT Score 960 – 1,190 Avg. Net Price $23,463 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $43,816
45	Shaw University	12.7	30.48	760 – 970	14111	26148	#45 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Shaw University Raleigh, NC Located in Raleigh, Shaw University accepted 30% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request $25 for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be available. About 90% of students attending Shaw University currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 12.7 % Acceptance Rate 30.5% SAT Score 760 – 970 Avg. Net Price $14,111 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $26,148
46	North Carolina Wesleyan University	13	77.95	860 – 1,100	19111	38939	#46 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina North Carolina Wesleyan University Rocky Mount, NC Found in Rocky Mount, North Carolina Wesleyan University accepts 78% of applicants and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 98% of students attending North Carolina Wesleyan University currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 13.0 % Acceptance Rate 78.0% SAT Score 860 – 1,100 Avg. Net Price $19,111 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $38,939
47	Bennett College	13.4	33.61	800 – 1,040	20928	23153	#47 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Bennett College Greensboro, NC Located in Greensboro, Bennett College accepts 34% of applicants. They request $35 for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be offered. About 93% of students at Bennett College will receive grant aid from the school....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 13.4 % Acceptance Rate 33.6% SAT Score 800 – 1,040 Avg. Net Price $20,928 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $23,153
48	North Carolina Central University	14.3	86.97	810 – 1,130	13884	35967	#48 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina North Carolina Central University Durham, NC North Carolina Central University is non selective, accepting 87% of applicants. 90% receive grant aid, $12,449 on average. A NCAA Division I-FCS school, student athletes could receive athletic scholarships. Popular sports include Football, Basketball, and Tennis. Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 14.3 % Acceptance Rate 87.0% SAT Score 810 – 1,130 Avg. Net Price $13,884 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,967
49	Chowan University	14.5	72.37	880 – 1,090	15845	30096	#49 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Chowan University Murfreesboro, NC Located in Murfreesboro, Chowan University’s acceptance rate is 72%. They request $20 for undergraduate applications, but fee waivers may be offered. About 100% of students attending Chowan University currently receive grant aid from the school. 64% of students decide to stay at Chowan University after completing their first......Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 14.5 % Acceptance Rate 72.4% SAT Score 880 – 1,090 Avg. Net Price $15,845 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $30,096
50	North Carolina A & T State University	14.8	46.17	940 – 1,100	10258	36638	#50 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina North Carolina A & T State University Greensboro, NC North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, or A&T for short, is the largest HBCU in the country. The campus is often called “Aggieland.” In 1960, four Aggies helped kick off the Civil Rights movement when they conducted a “sit-in” at a Woolworth’s....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 14.8 % Acceptance Rate 46.2% SAT Score 940 – 1,100 Avg. Net Price $10,258 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $36,638
51	Livingstone College	15.7	74.09	780 – 930	15162	24024	#51 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Livingstone College Salisbury, NC Located in Salisbury, Livingstone College accepted 74% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. Undergraduates have to pay $25 to apply. About 93% of students at Livingstone College will receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more affordable. At Livingstone College, there is a 47%......Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 15.7 % Acceptance Rate 74.1% SAT Score 780 – 930 Avg. Net Price $15,162 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $24,024
52	Mid-Atlantic Christian University	16.1	76.21	890 – 1,010	26793	29887	#52 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Mid-Atlantic Christian University Elizabeth City, NC Found in Elizabeth City, Mid-Atlantic Christian University accepts 76% of applicants. They request $50 for undergraduate applications. About 93% of students at Mid-Atlantic Christian University currently receive grant aid from the school....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 16.1 % Acceptance Rate 76.2% SAT Score 890 – 1,010 Avg. Net Price $26,793 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $29,887
53	Elizabeth City State University	16.7	64.61	840 – 1,040	7363	33776	#53 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Elizabeth City State University Elizabeth City, NC Elizabeth City State University is part of the University of North Carolina system. The school motto is “To Live is to Learn.” 92% of students receive grant aid – about $10,554 on average – to help them better afford the cost of college. Many undergraduates major in Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General. Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 16.7 % Acceptance Rate 64.6% SAT Score 840 – 1,040 Avg. Net Price $7,363 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $33,776
54	Mars Hill University	17.9	68.22	1,000 – 1,200	19842	35680	#54 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Mars Hill University Mars Hill, NC Found in Mars Hill, Mars Hill University accepted 68% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle and charges unknown for undergraduate applications. Approximately 97% of students attending Mars Hill University will receive institutional grant aid....Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 17.9 % Acceptance Rate 68.2% SAT Score 1,000 – 1,200 Avg. Net Price $19,842 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $35,680
55	Johnson C Smith University	20.4	45.21	790 – 980	19326	31478	#55 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Johnson C Smith University Charlotte, NC Based in Charlotte, Johnson C Smith University accepted 45% students who applied to the school in the last admissions cycle. They request $25 for undergraduate applications and $40 for graduate applications. Approximately 68% of attending students currently receive institutional grant aid to make attending college more......Read more Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 20.4 % Acceptance Rate 45.2% SAT Score 790 – 980 Avg. Net Price $19,326 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $31,478
56	Saint Augustine's University	29.5	34.65	760 – 920	18373	26999	#56 2026 Top Colleges Ranked by Student Loan Default Rate in North Carolina Saint Augustine's University Raleigh, NC Student Loan Default Rate (2 Year) 29.5 % Acceptance Rate 34.7% SAT Score 760 – 920 Avg. Net Price $18,373 Sign in to see your Estimated Net Price Median Starting Salary $26,999