AdmissionsOS University of North Carolina at Charlotte vs Western Carolina University
| University of North Carolina at Charlotte | Western Carolina University | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 80% | 82% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 1,140-1,330 | 1,080-1,270 |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 21-28 | 19-25 |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $15,435 | $13,315 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $23,010 | $19,992 |
| Graduation rate | 69% | 60% |
| Retention rate | 85% | 79% |
| Undergraduates | 24,453 | 10,024 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 21:1 | 16:1 |
| Setting | Charlotte, NC | Cullowhee, NC |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Application fee | $75 | $65 |
| Test policy | Required for some | Required for some |
Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.
Compare these in the interactive toolCommon questions
Is University of North Carolina at Charlotte or Western Carolina University harder to get into?
University of North Carolina at Charlotte is more selective, with a 80% acceptance rate versus 82% at Western Carolina University. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, University of North Carolina at Charlotte or Western Carolina University?
Western Carolina University has the lower average net price ($13,315 versus $15,435). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.