Application Deadlines
Applicants will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis up until the deadline and/or until enrollment capacity is reached, so applicants are encouraged to complete their application early.
Fall 2026 start: March 10, 2026
Transfer Application Deadline: February 15, 2026
Admission Requirements
The Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) program welcomes UNC–Chapel Hill undergraduate students who are interested in supporting the well-being of children, families, and communities through people-centered, interdisciplinary work. Students may apply to the HDFS program after establishing a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5. While GPA is an important consideration, the HDFS admissions committee takes a holistic approach and recognizes that GPA reflects only one dimension of an applicant’s preparation.
Successful applicants typically demonstrate academic readiness, a strong interest in human services, and potential to contribute meaningfully to the lives of others. Students are encouraged to monitor their application status regularly to ensure all materials are submitted and received on time.
Personal Essay
As part of the application, students must submit a personal essay (1.5–2 pages, double-spaced) that reflects on their interest in Human Development and Family Science (HDFS) and a future in human services. The essay should address how their interest in the field developed, the educational, professional, volunteer, or personal experiences that shaped their desire to work with children, families, youth, couples, and/or adults, and how earning a degree in HDFS will help them achieve their career goals. Applicants are encouraged to be thoughtful and specific in sharing their story and aspirations.
Resume
A standard resume is required. Career services can assist you with preparing a resume. Please be sure to include your experiences working with and leading organizations, either through work, volunteer efforts, and co-curricular activities, along with the duration of each experience. For extra-curricular activities at UNC-Chapel Hill, describe any special roles you have fulfilled, such as being an officer or heading a committee. Some of this information could be included in your essay.
How to Apply
Current UNC-Chapel Hill Undergraduate Students
To apply to the HDFS major, you must first request a major change within ConnectCarolina. Once you have submitted the request to change your major in ConnectCarolina, you will receive an email from UNC’s application system, Slate, that includes a link to the online application. Please note that it may take 24-72 hours to receive the application email.
All application materials are submitted electronically. No hard copy materials are accepted. By submitting an application to the UNC-Chapel Hill School of Education, consent is granted to university staff to obtain any additional or missing information as needed, including Campus Safety Information.
Note: The application includes a test score section; however, it is not required, as test scores are not mandatory for admission.
Transfer Students
Students transferring to UNC–Chapel Hill from another institution may apply to HDFS as junior transfers. Applications may be submitted during their first semester at Carolina or through the Common Application.
- Create an account and start your Common Application.
- Submit the Common Application, the Common Application supplement, and application fee.
- For the School of Education Common Application supplement, upload your response to the following question: “Why are you interested in pursuing the Human Development and Family Studies major?”
- Submit official transcripts from all secondary and post-secondary schools to:
Office of Undergraduate Admissions
Jackson Hall, Campus Box 2200
Chapel Hill, NC 27599-2200
After you submit your application, you will receive instructions for creating your MyCarolina account, which will allow you to view the status of your application, including your admission decision. Be sure to check your MyCarolina account frequently for important application updates.
Transfer students must complete all application steps by February 15, 2026. You will be notified of an admissions decision by mid-April.
Review Process
All applications are reviewed by HDFS faculty, who assess each applicant’s individual strengths and alignment with the program. Admitted students bring a range of experiences — some with high academic achievement, others with strong service backgrounds or professional interests related to serving the unique needs of individuals, families and communities. The review process is designed to identify students who are well-suited to thrive in the HDFS program and contribute meaningfully to its community.
Upon Admission
Students who are accepted, must accept their offer of admission in ConnectCarolina in order to officially declare the HDFS major. Students have until August of the admission year to accept their offer of admissions. We encourage students to accept or deny admissions with 14 days of notification. Early acceptance allows you to enroll in courses that are reserved for HDFS majors only.