Application Deadline
Summer 2027 Application Deadline: January 12, 2027, at 11:59 PM
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, 2026.
Application Requirements
The School Counseling program seeks applicants who are academically prepared, committed to working with children and adolescents, and passionate about promoting student success through leadership, advocacy, and culturally responsive practice.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution before enrolling
- Have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
- Demonstrate the academic preparation, interpersonal skills, and professional potential needed to succeed in a rigorous graduate program
While not required, successful applicants often have experience working with children, adolescents, or in school or youth-serving settings.
Application Process
To apply to the School Counseling program, you must submit the following materials:
- An online application
- Three letters of recommendation
- 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)
- Your statement should describe:
- Why you want to become a school counselor.
- Why the UNC School Counseling Program is the right fit for your professional goals.
- How your experiences have prepared you for graduate study and a career serving K–12 students.
- Applicants with an undergraduate GPA below 3.0 should address this in their statement.
Current résumé
- Your statement should describe:
- Application fee: $95 (non-refundable)
- Application fee waivers are available only to ten groups of applicants. We do not offer waivers outside of these groups. If none of these groups applies to you, you must pay the application fee to complete your application. If you have questions, please contact clamber@unc.edu.
Applicants are encouraged to monitor their application status regularly to ensure all materials are received.
Interview Process
Following the application review, selected applicants will be invited to interview with program faculty.
- Interviews are held on Fridays in late January and early February.
- In-person interviews are strongly encouraged.
- Virtual interviews are available for applicants who cannot travel.
Admissions Timeline
| Milestone | Date |
| Application Opens | August 4, 2026 |
| Priority Financial Support Deadline | December 16, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | January 12, 2027 (11:59 PM ET) |
| Interviews | Late January–Early February |
| Admission Decisions | Mid-March |