NC College Connect Makes College Entry Easier for Seniors With Guaranteed Spots at Top Schools

Starting this fall, NC College Connect will send automatic acceptance letters to public high school seniors who meet basic grade requirements. The program cuts through red tape at schools across the state.

"NC College Connect represents a fundamental shift in how we approach college admissions in North Carolina," said Peter Hans, president of the University of North Carolina System. "By eliminating unnecessary complexity, we're ensuring that college-ready students can focus on choosing the right institution for their goals, not navigating bureaucratic hurdles."

Eight Black colleges joined the effort: Elizabeth City State, Fayetteville State, NC Central, Johnson C. Smith, Livingstone, Bennett, Saint Augustine's, and Shaw.

State Superintendent Maurice "Mo" Green spoke to WS Chronicle. "When our entire education community works together like this, students win."

While 11 state schools and 29 private colleges signed up, some big names stayed out. NC State, UNC-Chapel Hill, and NC A&T won't take part yet.

Students with a 2.8 GPA or better will get their letters both by mail and online. They'll need to respond through NCCollegeConnect.org or CFNC.org during a special week this October.

The streamlined process skips essays and test scores. No fees either. This opens doors for students who might be the first in their family to attend college.

Money help exists too. Next NC Scholarship pays full costs at community colleges if families make under $80,000. Private school students can tap the NC Need-Based fund.

Four schools — Elizabeth City State, Fayetteville State, UNC Pembroke, and Western Carolina — cost just $500 per term under NC Promise.

Dr. Jeff Cox leads the state's community colleges. He said, "By removing barriers and simplifying the process, we're helping more students access the life-changing opportunities our community colleges provide – close to home and at a price they can afford."

Last year's test run reached 70,000 students. Qualified seniors can check their status and claim spots this fall through the program website.