Application Deadline
Deadline for Financial Support
Most financial support for graduate students is offered through individual academic programs. In addition, a limited number of awards are available through The Graduate School and are based on program nominations. To allow sufficient time for nomination, applications — including all uploads and required test scores — must be complete by December 16, 2025.
Application Requirements
We welcome applicants from a variety of backgrounds and stages of life who are intellectually capable, socially responsible, and committed to working with children and youth in school settings. A completed bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year institution and a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 are required.
Successful applicants typically bring prior experience in schools or youth-serving environments and demonstrate a clear sense of purpose in pursuing a career in school counseling. In reviewing applications, we look for evidence of academic readiness, thoughtful career exploration, and the potential to lead and advocate within the profession.
Applicants are encouraged to monitor their application status regularly to ensure all materials are received.
Application Process
To apply to the School Counseling program, you must submit the following materials:
- An online application
- Three letters of recommendation
- Strong letters typically come from former faculty and/or professional supervisors who can speak to your academic potential, interpersonal skills, and experiences working with children, youth, or in school settings.
- Unofficial transcripts from all postsecondary institutions
- A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required. If below 3.0, please address this in your Statement of Purpose.
- Statement of purpose (500–750 words)
- This statement should demonstrate a commitment to working with children and youth in the school setting, as well as clarity regarding why the school counseling program at UNC-Chapel Hill is a good fit for the applicant.
- Can this applicant succeed in a rigorous graduate program?
- Has this applicant made a careful, well-educated choice regarding this career and program?
- Is this applicant likely to become an outstanding leader in school counseling, contributing to the profession in significant ways?
- This statement should demonstrate a commitment to working with children and youth in the school setting, as well as clarity regarding why the school counseling program at UNC-Chapel Hill is a good fit for the applicant.
- Resume
- Application fee: $95 (non-refundable)
- Interview (if selected)
- All applicants who advance beyond the initial review will participate in an interview with program faculty. In-person interviews on campus are strongly encouraged, as they offer the best opportunity for both you and the faculty to assess fit. If travel is not possible, a virtual interview will be arranged.
- Interviews are held on Fridays in late January and early February. Optional campus tours are available through the UNC Visitors’ Center.
After the application deadline, faculty review all completed applications and extend interview invitations to selected applicants. Final admissions decisions are made by the Graduate School based on program recommendations. Some applicants may be placed on a waitlist pending space availability.
Final admissions decisions are typically communicated by mid-March. Due to the competitive nature of the program and its early summer start, admitted students are asked to confirm their enrollment within approximately three weeks of notification.