Forbes New Ivies 2025: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill UNC Maintains Excellence in Research and Liberal Arts Education for Second Straight Year

Looking to study at a top university based on Forbes New Ivies 2025 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill?

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has earned its place on the Forbes “New Ivies” list for the second consecutive year in 2025.

This prestigious recognition highlights UNC’s growing reputation as an institution that rivals the traditional Ivy League in academic quality and outcomes.

UNC-Chapel Hill stands among just 10 public universities nationwide to receive this distinction.

This affirms its position as a top-tier educational institution that delivers exceptional value.

What makes Carolina particularly noteworthy in the 2025 rankings is its combination of selectivity and accessibility.

With a 19% acceptance rate and median SAT scores of 1470, UNC offers academic rigor comparable to many private elite institutions but at a fraction of the cost for in-state students.

Forbes specifically cited UNC’s impressive metrics, highlighting its status as a top carolina institution on the list. approaching quality and prestige of an Ivy League education without the exclusive price tag.

The “New Ivy” designation reflects more than just admissions statistics. UNC’s placement on this exclusive list recognizes the university’s strong academic programs, vibrant campus culture, and the exceptional career outcomes that Chapel Hill graduates achieve.

Employers increasingly view a Carolina degree with the same esteem as those from traditional Ivy institutions.

Key Takeaways: Forbes New Ivies List 2025 as a Top Public University

• UNC has earned Forbes’ “New Ivy” recognition for two consecutive years with competitive 19% acceptance rates and 1470 median SAT scores.
• Chapel Hill offers academic quality approaching Ivy League standards at a significantly lower cost, especially for in-state students.
• Graduates enjoy exceptional career outcomes and employer recognition that rivals traditional elite institutions.

UNC-Chapel Hill’s Rise to the New Ivies

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has established itself as a UNC is recognized as a powerhouse among public universities, especially when outpacing most Ivy Leaguers in the eyes of employers., earning recognition on Forbes’ “New Ivies” list for the second consecutive year in 2025.

This achievement reflects both UNC’s academic excellence and its growing reputation among employers nationwide.

Criteria for New Ivies Selection

Forbes evaluates schools on several key metrics when determining “New Ivy” status. UNC-Chapel Hill stood out particularly for its academic rigor and value proposition.

The university offers an education approaching Ivy League quality at a fraction of the cost, especially for in-state students.

According to the latest rankings, UNC is the only North Carolina institution to make the prestigious list and one of just six public universities recognized.

Employers consistently rank Carolina graduates among their top hiring preferences, citing their strong preparation and practical skills.

The selection criteria also emphasize:

• Expanding applicant pools (UNC saw a 21% increase in applications since 2022)
• Graduate outcomes and career placement rates
• Research output and institutional innovation
• Faculty credentials and teaching excellence

Comparison with Traditional Ivy League Schools

While Ivy League schools maintain their historic prestige, UNC-Chapel Hill has narrowed the gap in several important areas.

The university now competes directly with Ivies in terms of research output, with UNC securing over $1.2 billion in research funding annually.

When comparing student outcomes, Carolina graduates achieve employment rates within 3 percentage points of Ivy graduates, at around 94% placement within six months.

The salary gap has also narrowed, with UNC graduates earning approximately 88% of the starting salary of their Ivy counterparts.

The most dramatic difference remains cost and accessibility. In-state students at UNC pay roughly one-fourth the tuition of Ivy League institutions.

This creates a compelling value proposition that has many top students choosing Carolina over more expensive options.

As Ivy Link experts note, UNC’s growing reputation has expanded its applicant pool, attracting students who previously focused solely on the Ivies.

Academic Excellence and Rankings

UNC-Chapel Hill combines exceptional educational quality with a strong reputation, earning its place among the elite “New Ivies” in 2025.

The university maintains impressive standings across national metrics while developing distinct academic strengths in key disciplines.

National and International Rankings

UNC-Chapel Hill continues to shine in prestigious rankings, maintaining its position as a Top 5 public university for the 23rd consecutive year according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 rankings.

This consistent excellence has earned Carolina recognition as a “new Ivy” by Forbes for the second straight year, placing it among institutions approaching the prestige of traditional Ivy League schools.

In broader metrics, UNC ranks #168 overall among all U.S. colleges and #6 among public colleges according to Forbes’ comprehensive assessment.

The university also holds strong regional standing as the #5 institution in the South.

When compared to traditional Ivy League schools like Harvard, Yale, and Princeton, UNC offers a comparable education quality at a fraction of the cost, particularly for in-state students.

Departments and Programs of Note

UNC-Chapel Hill boasts exceptional academic programs across multiple disciplines.

The Kenan-Flagler Business School, Gillings School of Global Public Health, and School of Medicine consistently rank among the nation’s best. 

The journalism program remains one of the most respected in the country, producing Pulitzer Prize winners and industry leaders.

The university’s STEM departments have gained significant recognition, with particularly strong offerings in biology, chemistry, and computer science.

UNC’s liberal arts programs maintain their historic excellence, with English, history, and political science departments regularly producing groundbreaking research.

For graduate education, Carolina’s programs rival those at Ivy League institutions, with selective admissions and rigorous curricula.

Doctoral students at Carolina benefit from robust research funding and mentorship from world-class faculty, making it one of the top public universities on the list. many of whom have been recruited from traditional Ivy League schools.

Admissions and Student Selection

UNC-Chapel Hill’s recognition as a Forbes New Ivy is reflected in its increasingly competitive admissions process.

The university has established rigorous selection criteria that rival traditional Ivy League institutions while maintaining its public university mission.

Admissions Data and Trends

UNC’s acceptance rate has become significantly more selective in recent years. For the class of 2029, the university admitted only 18.6% of applicants, down from 24% just five years ago.

This increasing selectivity places Carolina among the most competitive public universities in the nation.

Key admissions factors:

• Strong academic performance (GPA above 4.0 weighted)
• Rigorous course selection (AP/IB/Honors)
• Meaningful extracurricular involvement
• Compelling personal essays

For North Carolina residents, the acceptance rate remains somewhat higher at 24.3%, reflecting the university’s commitment to serving in-state students.

Out-of-state applicants face a much steeper challenge with only 10.8% gaining admission to one of the top public universities on the list.

The admissions office evaluates applications holistically, considering not just academic metrics but also the potential to succeed in a competitive landscape, often outpacing Ivy Leaguers. personal qualities and potential contributions to campus.

Standardized Test Scores

UNC has maintained high standardized test standards despite many peer institutions adopting test-optional policies.

The middle 50% ranges for admitted students demonstrate the university’s academic caliber:

The median SAT score of 1470 places UNC-Chapel Hill just behind the private Forbes New Ivies, which boast a median SAT of 1530 according to the 2025 rankings.

For test-optional applicants, the admissions committee places greater emphasis on course rigor, GPA trends, and extracurricular achievements.

However, strong test scores can still significantly strengthen your application, especially for competitive programs like business and computer science.

Campus Life and Culture

UNC-Chapel Hill offers a vibrant campus experience with over 800 student organizations and a strong tradition of student activism.

The university blends southern charm with academic excellence, creating a unique atmosphere for students to grow both personally and academically.

Student Organizations and Activities

UNC-Chapel Hill hosts more than 800 student organizations ranging from academic clubs to recreational groups.

Students can join the Carolina Union Activities Board which plans major campus events or participate in Greek life which includes 60+ fraternities and sororities.

The university’s athletic traditions are central to campus culture, with the men’s basketball team having won 6 NCAA championships.

Game days transform campus with students participating in the famous “Carolina Blue” spirit traditions.

Popular annual events include:

• Fall Fest – welcome celebration with food and activities
• Homecoming Weekend – alumni gatherings and football
• Holi Moli – celebration of colors and diversity

Students also enjoy recreational sports programs and access to state-of-the-art facilities like the Student Recreation Center and Rams Head Recreation Center.

Campus Protests and Political Activism

UNC-Chapel Hill has a storied history of student activism dating back to the Civil Rights Movement.

The university gained national attention during the 1960s when students advocated for desegregation and free speech.

In recent years, students have organized around issues including racial equity and inclusion, climate change activism, labor rights for campus workers, and affordable education initiatives.

The Campus Y, UNC’s center for social justice, serves as a hub for student organizing and volunteer work. Founded in 1860, it’s one of the oldest student organizations focused on social justice in the nation.

Student activists have successfully advocated for policy changes including the university’s sustainability initiatives and expanded mental health services.

The administration has created formal channels for student input through committees and town halls.

Unlike some peer institutions, UNC balances its southern heritage with progressive student movements, creating a unique environment that attracts attention from the University of Illinois and Georgia Tech. dynamic environment where diverse viewpoints are expressed.

Career Outcomes and Alumni Network

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill delivers exceptional career outcomes for graduates, backed by a powerful alumni network that spans industries and regions.

 UNC’s reputation among employers continues to grow as the university cements its position as a Forbes New Ivy for 2025.

Graduate Success and Employer Reputation

UNC Chapel Hill graduates enjoy impressive employment rates with 93% of recent graduates employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation.

The university’s standing as a “new Ivy” has significantly enhanced its appeal to employers.

Top hiring companies recruiting UNC graduates include Google, Bank of America, Deloitte, Epic Systems, and Microsoft.

Hiring managers consistently praise UNC graduates for their critical thinking abilities, strong communication skills, research experience, leadership potential, and adaptability in diverse workplaces.

The university’s career preparation resources include personalized coaching, resume workshops, and industry-specific networking events.

These services help you navigate your path from student to professional with confidence.

UNC’s consistent ranking as a Top 5 public university for 23 straight years signals to employers that graduates receive an education comparable to traditional Ivy League schools.

Networking and Alumni Engagement

With over 356,000 living alumni worldwide, your UNC connection opens doors to a vast professional network.

The Carolina Alumni Association maintains strong connections that benefit graduates in the eyes of employers. active chapters in all 50 states and 50+ countries.

Key networking opportunities include:

• LinkedIn groups with 150,000+ members
• Regional networking events held in major cities quarterly
• Industry-specific mentor programs
• Annual career fairs with 200+ employers
• Online job board exclusively for UNC alumni

The Tar Heel Network connects current students with alumni in their fields of interest for mentorship and job shadowing.

This creates valuable relationships that often lead to internships and job offers.

UNC’s alumni are exceptionally loyal and engaged, with over 20% contributing annually to the university.

This engagement translates to real opportunities for recent graduates seeking career guidance or job referrals.

Alumni events like the Career Connections Conference bring together students and successful graduates for Panel discussions, resume reviews, and networking sessions often result in meaningful professional relationships that help students outpace their peers.

Comparative Analysis with Other Public Ivies

UNC-Chapel Hill continues to stand out among public universities with its unique blend of academic rigor, affordability, and post-graduation outcomes.

Its recognition as a Forbes New Ivy places it in elite company among institutions that are increasingly challenging the traditional Ivy League’s dominance.

Peer Institution Evaluations

When compared to other Public Ivies like the University of Michigan and University of Virginia, UNC-Chapel Hill demonstrates competitive strengths in several key areas.

In employer surveys, UNC ranks particularly well, with 76% of employers rating its graduates as “extremely well prepared” for entry-level positions compared to 71% for Michigan and 73% for Virginia.

Table: Public Ivy Comparison (2025)

UNC stands out for its exceptional value proposition.

Your cost of attendance at Carolina averages $24,500 per year for in-state students, significantly lower than Michigan ($32,800) and Virginia ($30,700).

Education Quality and Facilities Comparable to Private Institutions in 2024 and 2025 Forbes Rankings

Carolina’s educational experience compares favorably with other elite public universities in both quality and facilities.

The student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1 matches the University of Virginia and beats Michigan’s 15:1, giving you more personalized attention from professors.

Recent investments in campus facilities have enhanced UNC’s position among its peers.

 The $95 million renovation of the Undergraduate Library completed in 2024 created one of the most advanced learning commons in public education.

This complements the $350 million science complex that opened in 2023.

UNC’s innovative approach to learning is evident in its Carolina Away program, which allows students to gain valuable experiences while studying abroad, something the Forbes study highlighted as increasingly important to employers.

Your opportunities for hands-on research as an undergraduate are also exceptional, with 68% of students participating in faculty-mentored research before graduation.

Financial Aspects of Education

Understanding the financial landscape at UNC-Chapel Hill helps students make informed decisions about their education investment.

The university offers various support systems while delivering strong value compared to traditional Ivy League institutions.

Tuition and Financial Aid

UNC-Chapel Hill maintains its reputation as one of the most affordable elite universities in America.

For the 2024-2025 academic year, in-state students pay approximately $9,000 in tuition, while out-of-state students face costs around $37,000.

These figures place Carolina significantly below private institutions in the Ivy League and many other “New Ivies.”

The university demonstrates strong commitment to financial accessibility UNC-Chapel Hill offers various programs, including partnerships with military academies.

• Carolina Covenant: Guarantees debt-free education to qualified low-income students
• Blue Sky Scholars: Supports middle-income North Carolina students
• Merit scholarships: Numerous options based on academic achievement
• Need-based aid: 47% of undergraduates receive some form of need-based assistance

UNC has consistently ranked among the top 5 public universities for value in national publications, including comparisons with the University of Pittsburgh and Purdue University.

The average financial aid package for eligible students exceeds $15,000 annually.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

When evaluating the return on investment (ROI) of a UNC education, the numbers speak volumes.

The average starting salary for UNC graduates is approximately $65,000, with mid-career earnings averaging $110,000 across all majors.

UNC’s academic reputation among employers continues to strengthen, especially in fields like:

The student loan default rate for UNC graduates is only 1.9%, significantly below the national average of 7.3%.

This indicates graduates can comfortably manage their post-college financial obligations.

You’ll also benefit from UNC’s extensive alumni network of over 356,000 graduates worldwide, providing invaluable connections for internships and job opportunities.

This network partly explains why 91% of graduates secure employment or graduate school admission within six months of graduation.

Frequently Asked Questions: Brightest Students at the Ivy League level with Forbes New Ivies 2025 UNC

UNC-Chapel Hill has earned its spot as a Forbes New Ivy for the second consecutive year, demonstrating exceptional academic quality, strong employer recognition, and impressive student outcomes that rival traditional Ivy League institutions.

What factors were considered in ranking the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in Forbes’ New Ivies list for 2025?

Forbes evaluated several key metrics when placing UNC-Chapel Hill on its prestigious list of universities, noting its outpacing of many peer institutions. New Ivies list for 2025.

Academic excellence was a primary consideration, with UNC’s rigorous curriculum and distinguished faculty playing major roles.

Student outcomes were also crucial, including graduation rates and post-graduate employment success, which are vital in the eyes of employers.

UNC-Chapel Hill graduates consistently demonstrate strong performance in the job market.

Employer perception weighed heavily, with many companies viewing UNC credentials as comparable to those from Ivy League schools.

The university’s research contributions and global impact further strengthened its position.

Which universities have been included in the Forbes list of New Ivies for the year 2025?

The 2025 Forbes New Ivies list features 20 exceptional institutions divided evenly between public and private universities. UNC-Chapel Hill proudly represents North Carolina as the state’s only institution on this elite roster.

Other public universities joining UNC include flagship state schools known for academic rigor and research excellence.

The University of Michigan, University of Virginia, and University of California campuses frequently appear alongside Carolina.

Private institutions on the list include Tufts University, which shares the distinction with UNC-Chapel Hill.

These schools offer education quality approaching traditional Ivy League standards but often with different strengths and campus cultures.

How does the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill compare to traditional Ivy League schools according to Forbes’ assessment for 2025?

Academic standards at UNC-Chapel Hill closely approach Ivy League levels, with selective admissions and challenging coursework.

The median SAT scores at UNC remain competitive with many Ivy League institutions.

Employer perception is particularly notable, with many companies valuing UNC graduates as highly as those from traditional Ivies.

This recognition translates into strong job placement rates and starting salaries.

Cost represents a significant advantage for UNC, especially for in-state students.

While providing comparable educational quality, UNC offers substantially lower tuition than private Ivy League universities, creating exceptional value.

What are the characteristics of ‘Public Ivy League’ schools, and does the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill fit this category according to the latest Forbes ratings?

Public Ivy League schools deliver educational experiences rivaling the original eight Ivy League institutions but at public university prices.

They feature rigorous academics, distinguished faculty, comprehensive research opportunities, and selective admissions.

UNC-Chapel Hill exemplifies the Public Ivy concept with its blend of academic excellence and relative affordability.

Forbes’ New Ivies designation reinforces UNC’s longstanding Public Ivy status.

The university maintains high academic standards while serving its public mission of accessibility.

This balance of excellence and inclusivity defines the Public Ivy approach that has earned UNC recognition in Forbes’ assessment.

In what ways has the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s football program contributed to its ranking on the Forbes New Ivies 2025 list?

While academics form the foundation of UNC’s Forbes New Ivy status, athletics contribute to overall institutional prestige and recognition.

The football program enhances campus culture and generates national visibility.

Athletic success creates strong alumni engagement and financial support. These connections strengthen the university’s ability to fund academic initiatives and campus improvements.

The football program also demonstrates UNC’s commitment to developing well-rounded students.

This holistic approach to education aligns with the values Forbes recognizes in its New Ivies selections.

What is the broader impact of being named one of Forbes’ New Ivies on a university like the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill?

This prestigious recognition enhances UNC’s ability to attract top students nationally and internationally.

Application numbers typically increase following such designations, allowing greater selectivity in admissions.

Faculty recruitment benefits from the New Ivy status, helping UNC compete for leading scholars and researchers.

This strengthens academic programs and research initiatives across the university.

The designation also creates lasting reputational advantages for graduates. UNC alumni entering the job market carry the benefit of their degree’s association with elite educational quality, opening doors throughout their careers.

Forbes New Ivies 2025 University of North Carolina Chapel Hill UNC demonstrates a clear boost in reputation with employers by being named a New Ivy for the second straight year!