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Colleges / NC / Boone
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Appalachian State University

Public Boone, NC · Town · Southeast · 100% data reported · Agent Insights
74%
Graduation Rate
$51,836
Earnings (10yr)
$16,836
Net Price
90%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

With an enrollment of nearly 19,500 students, Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina, is a solid choice for those looking to dive into fields like Business and Marketing, Biology, Education, Psychology, or Health Professions. The acceptance rate of 90% suggests that we can comfortably welcome a diverse group of students, making it an accessible option for many. This school suits individuals who prioritize a strong sense of community and a connection to the beautiful Appalachian Mountains, while also seeking practical, career-oriented programs.

Looking at what happens after graduation, students from Appalachian typically see earnings around $51,836 a decade later. That’s a decent figure, especially for graduates entering fields with a focus on service and education. Many students find their footing in good-paying jobs, which speaks to the value of the education they receive. The affordability of this experience is noteworthy; with a net price of $16,836, it positions itself as a reasonable investment for families.

When we look at the financials, the median debt for graduates rests at $20,231. This is manageable for many, especially considering the earnings potential. Students who thrive here often come from a diverse range of backgrounds, and those who are proactive about utilizing campus resources typically find success. With a significant percentage of students receiving Pell Grants, it’s clear that Appalachian State is committed to supporting those who need it most, making it a place where many can flourish.

Rankings

How Appalachian Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation74%Earnings 10yr$52KNet Price$17KRetention84%Median Debt$20KPell Grant Rate26%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$9K$0-30K$12K$30-48K$15K$48-75K$22K$110K+

The Mobility Equation

Mobility = Access x Success. How many low-income students get in, and how many reach the top 20%?

ACCESS% from bottom 20%354.5%SUCCESS% who reach top 20%1523.3%MOBILITY54.00%

Cost & Financial Aid

$7,579
In-State Tuition
$25,212
Out-of-State
$16,836
Avg Net Price
$20,231
Median Debt
26%
Pell Grant Rate
37%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$9,325
Family Income $0–$30K
$11,600
Family Income $30K–$48K
$15,204
Family Income $48K–$75K
$22,382
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$43,663
6 Years After Entry
$48,423
8 Years
$51,836
10 Years
0.39x
Debt-to-Earnings
64%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$43,663 6yr $48,423 8yr $51,836 10yr

Social Mobility

Data: Raj Chetty's Mobility Report Card · 30M+ anonymized tax records

54.00%
Mobility Rate
Bottom 20% → Top 20%
1523.3%
Success Rate
If bottom 20% get in
354.5%
From Bottom 20%
Share of students
$105,900
Parent Median Income

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.49
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
-0.02
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
7.1%
Volunteering Rate
0.99
Support Ratio
Community support

Innovation

Data: Opportunity Insights Patent & Innovation Data

0.130%
Inventor Rate
13
Total Patents
28
Total Citations

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 90%
Retention Rate 84%
SAT Average 1214
ACT Midpoint 27
SAT Range 1120–1280
ACT Range 21–27
Full-Time Faculty 78%
Faculty Salary (mo) $9,281
Diversity Index 0.37
First-Gen Students 25%

Top Programs

Business & Marketing 25%
Biology & Biomedical 9%
Education 9%
Psychology 8%
Health Professions 8%
Communications 7%
Visual & Performing Arts 6%
Social Sciences 5%