Tuition at UNCW Wilmington NC: All You Need to Know

Thinking about attending the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW)? Here's a comprehensive guide to tuition and financial aid information to help you plan.

In-State Tuition:

• Undergraduate: $7,324 per year
• Graduate: $10,446 per year

Out-of-State Tuition:

• Undergraduate: $24,232 per year
• Graduate: $24,734 per year

Tuition Increases:

UNCW has historically experienced a modest tuition increase rate of around 2-3% per year.

Financial Aid Options:

UNCW offers a range of financial aid options to eligible students, including:

• Grants: Free money that doesn't need to be repaid
• Scholarships: Merit-based or needs-based awards
• Loans: Borrowed money that must be repaid after graduation
• Work-Study: On-campus jobs that help offset costs

Fast Facts:

• In 2021-22, UNCW awarded over $100 million in financial aid to students.
• The average financial aid package for in-state undergraduates is over $7,000.
• The average financial aid package for out-of-state undergraduates is over $20,000.

Pain Points and Motivations:

Pain Points:

• Rising tuition costs can be a burden for students and families.
• Students may struggle to find affordable housing near campus.
• Financial aid applications can be complex and time-consuming.

Motivations:

• UNCW offers a high-quality education with excellent faculty and research opportunities.
• The university is located in a vibrant and growing city.
• UNCW graduates have a high earning potential after graduation.

Effective Strategies:

• Apply for financial aid early: Deadlines vary, so it's important to submit your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as soon as possible.
• Explore scholarship opportunities: UNCW offers numerous scholarships, both university-based and external.
• Consider work-study: On-campus jobs can help offset expenses while providing valuable work experience.
• Negotiate with the financial aid office: If you have special circumstances, don't be afraid to reach out and discuss your options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Waiting to apply for financial aid: Procrastination can lead to missed deadlines and reduced financial aid.
• Borrowing too much money: Loans can quickly accumulate, so it's important to borrow only what you need.
• Not exploring all scholarship opportunities: Many scholarships go unclaimed every year due to lack of awareness.
• Assuming you won't qualify for financial aid: Even if you think you don't qualify, it's still worth applying.