Over 23,000 NC High School Seniors Accept College Offers Through NC College Connect

More than 23,000 North Carolina public high school seniors have accepted direct college admission offers through the NC College Connect program. Between August 2025 and January 2026, students accepted over 88,000 offers, representing roughly 21% of the Class of 2026.

The program, now in its second year, automatically matches qualifying seniors—those with a 2.8 GPA or higher—to colleges and universities across the state, removing the need for a traditional application.

State Superintendent Maurice “Mo” Green called the program a key step in providing clear pathways for students. “That so many students have taken advantage of this opportunity is incredibly exciting,” he said.

This year, 11 public universities, 29 private colleges, and all 58 community colleges participated. The initiative also boosted College Application Week in October, with more than 117,000 applications submitted—up nearly 9% from last year.

NC College Connect will return for the 2026-27 school year, with eligible seniors notified in the fall.