The University of North Carolina (UNC) offers international students more than just a world-class education—it opens the door to fully-funded scholarships, work-study opportunities, and an accessible F-1 student visa pathway. For ambitious students dreaming of studying in the U.S. without the financial burden, UNC’s programs are a golden opportunity to earn a degree while gaining real-world work experience.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about applying to UNC with scholarship support and obtaining a U.S. student visa to legally study and work on campus.

Why Choose the University of North Carolina?

UNC is one of the oldest and most respected public universities in the United States, known for academic excellence and diversity. Here’s why thousands of international students choose UNC each year:

• Ranked among the Top 30 U.S. universities

• Offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs

• Strong emphasis on research, innovation, and career readiness

• A diverse student population from over 100 countries

• Located in North Carolina—one of the most student-friendly states in the U.S.

Plus, UNC’s strong commitment to affordability and access makes it a perfect choice for students seeking high-quality education with scholarship and visa support.

What Is the Work & Study Visa Program?

The F-1 visa allows international students to study in the U.S. and also work part-time on campus during their academic program. Here’s what the program offers:

• 20 hours/week of on-campus employment during school sessions

• Full-time work during holidays and breaks

• Option for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT)—programs that allow you to gain real-world job experience in your field of study

• Legal pathway to remain in the U.S. after graduation for employment

When combined with a scholarship, this visa pathway significantly reduces the financial burden on international students and creates career advancement opportunities.

Types of Scholarships Offered at UNC

UNC offers a wide range of merit-based and need-based scholarships specifically for international students. These include:

• Global Gap Year Fellowship – For students who want to take a year off for global service or travel before starting college

• Morehead-Cain Scholarship – UNC’s most prestigious and fully-funded scholarship, covering tuition, housing, meals, and expenses

• Carolina Global Initiative Award – Financial support for students seeking international educational experiences

• Graduate Research and Teaching Assistantships – For master’s and Ph.D. students

Scholarships can be full or partial and often come bundled with leadership training, mentorship, and networking access.

Eligibility Criteria for International Students

To qualify for UNC scholarships and a U.S. student visa, applicants must meet certain requirements:

• A high school diploma or undergraduate degree from an accredited institution

• Excellent academic records (GPA, transcripts)

• Competitive SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT scores (where applicable)

• Strong English language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)

• Demonstrated leadership, community involvement, or unique achievements

• For visa application: a valid I-20 form issued by UNC after admission

Meeting these criteria enhances your chances of receiving both admission and financial aid.

How to Apply for the UNC Scholarship

Here’s a step-by-step process to apply for a UNC scholarship as an international student:

1. Research UNC Programs – Choose your preferred course of study.

2. Complete Online Application – Apply via the UNC portal or Common App.

3. Submit Required Documents – Transcripts, test scores, essays, and recommendation letters.

4. Indicate Financial Need – Fill out scholarship or financial aid applications.

5. Interview (If Required) – Some scholarships, like the Morehead-Cain, require interviews.

6. Wait for Admission Decision – If accepted, you’ll receive a scholarship offer letter.

Be sure to apply early, as many scholarships have priority deadlines months before the semester begins.

Student Visa Application Process (F-1 Visa)

Once admitted and awarded a scholarship, UNC will issue an I-20 form, the document needed to apply for an F-1 visa. Here’s how the process works:

1. Pay the SEVIS Fee – Required to activate your visa record.

2. Fill Out the DS-160 Form – The official non-immigrant visa application.

3. Schedule a Visa Interview – At the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

4. Prepare Required Documents – Passport, I-20, financial proof, scholarship letter, visa photo.

5. Attend Interview – Answer questions about your program, finances, and plans post-graduation.

6. Receive Visa – Once approved, you’re ready to travel to the U.S.

F-1 visa holders can work part-time, pursue internships, and stay post-graduation under OPT or STEM extension rules.

Benefits of Studying & Working at UNC as an International Student

UNC’s work and study model offers unique advantages:

• Reduced cost of education through scholarships and legal work

• Professional experience through OPT/CPT programs

• Access to world-class faculty, labs, and global research

• Exposure to multicultural learning environments

• Chance to build a U.S.-based career network

• Pathways to H-1B sponsorship and permanent residency after graduation

These benefits make UNC an exceptional launchpad for students aiming for long-term success in the U.S.

Conclusion: Your Future Begins at UNC

With a reputation for academic excellence, strong scholarship support, and a legal work-study visa path, the University of North Carolina is a top destination for international students. Whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s or graduate degree, UNC can help you study affordably, gain career experience, and even explore permanent residency options in the United States.

Don’t miss your chance to earn a fully-funded education, develop global skills, and build your future in America. Start your UNC journey today—your opportunity to study, work, and thrive in the U.S. begins here.