Stay Ahead: Your Guide to FAFSA Deadlines at NC Wesleyan
Filing your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) doesn鈥檛 have to be overwhelming! At NC Wesleyan University, we鈥檙e here to help you navigate the process so you can focus on planning your future with us.
1. Start Early
The 2025-26 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is now available at聽聽 If you have not already done so, please submit your FAFSA as soon as possible to ensure you have access to all types of financial aid for which you qualify.聽 Remember to include NC Wesleyan鈥檚 school code (002951) so that we will receive your FAFSA.
2. Need to Make Changes?
If you made a mistake on your FAFSA, you will need to log back in at聽聽and follow the directions to correct your mistake.聽 Please submit your corrections as soon as possible so that you will receive an accurate financial aid award letter.
3. Understand Your Award Letter
Once our Financial Aid Office receives your FAFSA and your Admissions information, you will receive a Financial Aid Award letter which breaks down the types of financial aid for which you qualify.聽 The letter will also include your Financial Aid Advisor鈥檚 name, email address and phone number. Please reach out to your Financial Aid Advisor with any questions.
4. Eligibility Reconsideration
麻豆原创 knows that life can throw curveballs, and the Office of Financial Aid is here to help! In some cases, with the right documentation, our team can review your situation to see if adjustments to your FAFSA can be made. We handle two types of unique situations: special and unusual circumstances. Please reach out to your Financial Aid Advisor and/or read more HERE.
Remember, securing financial aid starts with the FAFSA. Let鈥檚 make this step easy and stress-free so you can focus on joining the Bishop family!
| Academic year (you鈥檒l attend college between these dates) | FAFSA | Use income and tax info |
| July 1, 2024 -June 30, 2025 | 2024-2025 FAFSA | 2022, filed in 2023 |
| July 1, 2025 -June 30, 2026 | 2025-2026 FAFSA | 2023, filed in 2024 |
NCWU Graphic Designer Inspires at Career Fest
麻豆原创鈥檚 own graphic designer, Judie Taylor, recently shared her exciting journey with students at 鈥檚 Career Fest. Her story鈥攁 mix of creativity, perseverance, and adaptability鈥攐ffered a window into the world of design and was packed with inspiring takeaways for students just beginning to imagine their own career paths.
From the beginning, Judie was captivated by art. She made her first mark at , where she helped create and edit her school鈥檚 yearbook. This early role sparked her interest in design, setting her on a path that would eventually lead her across the country鈥攁nd back again. Judie honed her skills at in their Advertising and Graphic Design Program, where she even designed the school鈥檚 beloved NightHawk mascot that endures to this day.
Driven to expand her artistry, Judie continued her education at the prestigious in Georgia. There, she added a minor in Film and Television, diving into creative storytelling and further cultivating her love for design. After graduating, she took her skills to the bustling world of New York City, where she joined . In this role, she brought her artistic vision to iconic children鈥檚 brands like , and OshKosh B鈥橤osh. But as the pandemic unfolded, family and the familiarity of North Carolina called her back. Today, Judie is the Graphic Designer for 麻豆原创, where her work influences everything from social media graphics to major event marketing.
When asked what she loves most about her career, Judie didn鈥檛 hesitate: 鈥淚 think what I love most is the variety and the impact. One day, I might be working on a magazine or a billboard, and the next, designing materials for a campus event. Each project is unique and lets me be creative while also working with a team. Seeing something I helped create go public and resonate with people is an amazing feeling.鈥
At the Career Fest, Judie emphasized the importance of learning to take feedback in stride鈥攁 skill essential in any artistic career. 鈥淎rt is subjective, and not everyone will love what you create right away,鈥 she shared. 鈥淭hat doesn鈥檛 mean you鈥檝e done something wrong. Feedback from professors, clients, or teammates can be a powerful tool for growth. Embrace it as an opportunity to elevate your work and make it even stronger.鈥
Judie鈥檚 advice and personal journey served as a reminder that careers are often about more than titles and salaries; they鈥檙e about growth, resilience, and finding a way to turn passion into impact. And for the students of Faith Christian School, her message was clear: be fearless, stay curious, and don鈥檛 shy away from the creative process鈥攆eedback and all.
NCWU – A Premier Community College Partner
麻豆原创 (NCWU) continues to strengthen its reputation as a premier community college partner in the state, offering a seamless and affordable pathway to higher education for community college graduates and employees. With a steadfast commitment to accessible education and comprehensive student support, NCWU has built meaningful partnerships with community colleges that facilitate smooth transitions for students pursuing their bachelor degrees.
Over the past decade, more than 2,000 community college students have successfully completed their bachelor鈥檚 degrees at NCWU, reflecting the University鈥檚 dedication to fostering educational advancement. NC Wesleyan maintains articulation agreements with 38 of the 58 community colleges in North Carolina, ensuring that students can transfer credits efficiently. Additionally, Wesleyan is part of several key articulation agreements, including the and Registered Nurse (RN) to Bachelor of Science in Nurse (BSN). These partnerships reduce the number of credits students are required to take at a four-year institution, streamlining the transfer process and saving both time and money.
Wesleyan鈥檚 transfer-friendly policies set it apart from other institutions in the state, as it offers more transfer credits than any other North Carolina school. Students who have previously received college credit from a two-year institution may transfer in up to 75 credit hours and those who have attended a four-year institution up to 90 credit hours. Students can also take advantage of accelerated associate-to-master鈥檚 completion programs, allowing them to earn both degrees in just 2.5 years in high-demand fields such as Business, IT Management, and Criminal Justice. These programs are tailored to meet the needs of working adults and are designed to help students gain the skills needed to secure promotions or enter new career paths.
At the heart of NCWU鈥檚 transfer initiative is Wesleyan Works, the University鈥檚 signature transfer program. Through this program, NCWU has developed effective agreements with community colleges across the state, guaranteeing admission for graduates holding an Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, Associate of Fine Arts (AFA), Associate of Engineering(AE), and Associates in Teacher Preparation (ATP).This ensures that their credits transfer smoothly, allowing them to continue their educational journey with ease. With NCWU鈥檚 one-of-a-kind pathway for AAS degrees, students can transfer in a total of 75 semester hours. Benefit 鈥 applies for all AAS credits directly towards 120 bachelor鈥檚 degree required hours but further reduces remaining credits needed at NCWU by allowing the additional 15 hours.
鈥溌槎乖 is committed to supporting community college graduates and employees through flexible, affordable programs that help students reach their full potential,鈥 said Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of NCWU. 鈥淲e understand the unique challenges faced by community college students and aim to offer programs that fit their needs and schedules, allowing them to balance work, family, and education.鈥
NCWU not only supports community college graduates, but also extends special tuition rates to community college employees, making it more affordable for them to further their education and advance their careers. The University鈥檚 online and hybrid course options provide the flexibility working professionals need, allowing them to complete coursework at their own pace while balancing other responsibilities.
In addition to affordable tuition, NCWU offers a wide range of support services, including academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career services, to ensure that students receive the guidance and resources needed for a smooth transition and successful completion of their bachelor鈥檚 degree. These services are offered on their community college campus with dedicated office hours, avoiding the extra step of them having to come to Wesleyan.
As NC Wesleyan continues to expand its partnership with community colleges, the University remains dedicated to providing personalized educational experiences for students from all backgrounds. With a focus on flexibility, affordability, and student success, NCWU is helping build a brighter future for North Carolina鈥檚 community college graduates and employees.
NCWU Receives Multiple Accolades
麻豆原创 (NCWU) has garnered significant recognition in recent weeks, with a series of impressive rankings that highlight the institution鈥檚 commitment to excellence in higher education. As the data continues to pour in, it鈥檚 clear that NCWU is delivering on its promise to offer a top-tier, affordable, and supportive educational experience鈥攐ne that is both student and parent-approved.
The accolades started strong in September with , where NC Wesleyan was ranked Top 50 in Regional Colleges South out of 131 institutions. The University also placed No. 17 in Best Value Schools, No. 11 in Best Colleges for Veterans, and listed as a Top Performer on Social Mobility. These rankings showcase NCWU鈥檚 dedication to providing quality education while ensuring that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to succeed and thrive.
is widely recognized as a global leader in educational rankings, and NCWU鈥檚 continuous recognition reflects the University’s ongoing commitment to delivering best-in-class value. Year after year, Wesleyan maintains its position among the top colleges, demonstrating a steadfast focus on student success and offering a personalized private higher education experience.
The momentum continued with a prestigious ranking from , which named NCWU鈥檚 Online MBA program the best in the country for the second consecutive year above Johns Hopkins University. Forbes praised the program鈥檚 focus on executive leadership, information security, and supply chain management, highlighting its emphasis on organizational change, ethical decision-making, and economic theory. This recognition underscores Wesleyan鈥檚 growing strength in graduate education and its determination to expand and improve its programs.
Further accolades came from , which ranked NCWU鈥檚 Online Master of Criminal Justice among the top 20 programs in the country. Notably, Wesleyan was one of only two universities in North Carolina to receive this distinction. The program鈥檚 flexibility, rigor, and focus on preparing students for impactful careers in criminal justice are key components of its success.
Lastly, ranked NC Wesleyan highly in several categories. In North Carolina-specific rankings, the University earned top spots: No. 2 for Diversity of 46, just behind Duke University, No. 5 for Safest Campuses of 40, and No. 14 for Best Colleges for Business of 40. Nationally, Wesleyan was ranked No. 80 out of 1,495 for Most Diverse Colleges in America, reflecting the University鈥檚 inclusive and welcoming environment.
The University fosters an environment where students from various backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives can come together to learn and grow. With students representing a wide range of socioeconomic, racial, and ethnic backgrounds, NCWU takes pride in creating a campus community that reflects the broader world. This diverse environment not only enhances the learning experience but also prepares students for success in a global society. The University’s dedication to inclusivity ensures that all students feel welcome, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. By embracing diversity, NCWU encourages collaboration and understanding, which enriches both the academic and social fabric of the institution.
Beyond the accolades, NCWU remains focused on offering affordable education to both traditional students and adult learners. The University awards $24 million in scholarships, grants, and financial aid annually, making higher education accessible and reducing the financial burden for students. In fact, NCWU鈥檚 average scholarship package brings the cost of attending Wesleyan in line with that of public universities.
A recent analysis by in March 2023 reinforced Wesleyan鈥檚 affordability, ranking the University as one of the top ten most affordable colleges in North Carolina and the most affordable private, nonprofit institution in the state.
As NC Wesleyan continues to excel in rankings and recognitions, its mission remains clear: to provide a high-quality, affordable education that prepares students for success both in their careers and in life. Whether you鈥檙e a traditional student just out of high school or a working adult balancing a busy schedule, NCWU offers the resources and support to help you achieve your academic and professional goals.
Wesleyan Works Program extended to LCC
North Carolina Wesleyan University is excited to announce a new transfer agreement withthrough the Wesleyan Works program, providing a streamlined pathway for students to continue their education. This collaboration is designed to support graduates who wish to pursue a bachelor鈥檚 degree by guaranteeing admission to Wesleyan for those who complete an Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. Students who participate in Wesleyan Works will have access to academic advising and financial aid counseling while attending LCC, as well as access to attend events on the NCWU main campus in Rocky Mount.
“Our partnership with Lenoir Community College reflects our commitment to creating seamless pathways for students,鈥 said NCWU President Dr. Evan Duff. 鈥淏y working together, we are not only enhancing transfer opportunities but also enriching the educational landscape for all learners. This collaboration embodies our shared vision of accessibility, support, and success, ensuring that every student can achieve their academic dreams.”
The Wesleyan Works program highlights 鈥s commitment to expanding opportunities for students and strengthening partnerships with institutions of higher education. Through this agreement, LCC and NCWU are ensuring that students have the support they need to achieve their academic and career goals.
鈥淲e are thrilled to partner with NC Wesleyan University through Wesleyan Works,鈥 said LCC President Dr. Rusty Hunt. 鈥淭his program will open new doors for our students, allowing them to continue their education with confidence, knowing they have guaranteed admission to a four-year institution.鈥
For more information about the Wesleyan Works program and how to enroll, please contact Alex Ranieri, LCC鈥檚 Director of Advising at Academic Success, at apranieri16@lenoircc.edu or 252-527-6223, ext. 936.
ACC & NCWU Sign Transfer Agreement
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA 鈥 Alamance Community College (ACC) and NC Wesleyan University (NCWU) have entered into a multi-tiered transfer agreement that provides students with academic opportunities across multiple programs.
The agreement enhances and expands educational opportunities for graduates transferring to NCWU after earning an associate degree from one or more of five different programs. The ACC graduates consequently gain access to the benefits of the Wesleyan Works program.
Wesleyan Works is a transfer program designed for community college students who plan to continue their education at NCWU. Wesleyan Works guarantees admission to NCWU for ACC鈥檚 graduates earning Associate in Arts, Associate in Science, Associate in Fine Arts, Associate of Engineering and Associate in Applied Science degrees. Students who participate in Wesleyan Works will have access to academic advising and financial aid counseling through NCWU, as well as access to attend events on NCWU鈥檚 main campus in Rocky Mount, NC. The target population for this program is adult students who intend to attend NCWU鈥檚 evening or online programs.
Students who graduate and transfer under this agreement may select any of NCWU鈥檚 traditional programs of study, or may transfer to NCWU鈥檚 Adult and Professional Studies programs utilizing the advantages of the Wesleyan Works program.
Once accepted to NC Wesleyan University, graduates of Alamance Community College鈥檚 AAS programs will be permitted to take up to an additional 15 hours of general education coursework while still at ACC, for a total of no more than 75 credit hours in transfer.
Bachelor degree opportunities for ACC transfer students include Criminal Justice, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Organizational Leadership, Accounting, and Healthcare Administration.
Furthermore, the Wesleyan Works agreement offers reduced tuition for ACC faculty and staff seeking online educational pathways. ACC employees would receive reductions of $350 per credit hour for undergraduate programs and $400 per credit hour for graduate programs.
鈥淲e are looking forward to serving the graduates and employees of Alamance Community College as they continue their higher education journey at the undergraduate and graduate levels,鈥 said NC Wesleyan President Dr. Evan Duff. 鈥淥ur programs are specifically designed for those who want to work part-time or full-time and complete their degree online. We also have robust traditional programs for students who graduate from Alamance and want to continue that on-campus experience. This partnership will provide multiple affordable pathways for ACC graduates and employees.鈥
鈥淭ogether with NC Wesleyan, we are creating a stronger foundation for our students鈥 future success,鈥 said Dr. Lisa Johnson, ACC Vice President of Instruction. 鈥淪upporting them through multiple pathways and program options ensures they will be well-equipped to meet the challenges of an ever-changing workforce.鈥
NCWU Welcomes Class of 2028
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA 鈥 麻豆原创 held its 68th annual New Student Convocation on Aug. 20 in Minges Auditorium at The Dunn Center to welcome the Class of 2028. President Dr. Evan D. Duff gave a warm welcome to over 300 new students who are embarking on their college experience, congratulating them on taking the next step in their educational journey.
Keynote Speaker Kevin Snyder
This year鈥檚 guest speaker was Kevin Snyder, owner of Southern Swag. Snyder graduated from NCWU in 2000 with a degree in Environmental Science and was a member of the Battling Bishop Men’s Soccer team. His professors and coaches planted the seeds for personal responsibility, and a “trust but verify” mentality which quickly translated to his professional career in Quality Assurance. He has worked on several of the world’s largest energy and utility projects, including the newly constructed nuclear power plants in China, Georgia and South Carolina, and the country’s largest offshore wind project off the coast of Massachusetts.
In early 2024, Kevin and his wife Jenny started a small business, . Southern Swag is a promotional products company that aims to provide cost effective solutions for business looking to increase their brand awareness.
Throughout his career, Kevin has recognized opportunities to give back, including leading and organizing an annual Golf Tournament fundraiser for Make A Wish of Central and Western Carolina for several years. Kevin has most recently taken his leadership passion to the soccer field as a volunteer goalkeeper coach for the Neuse River Futbol Alliance. He has organized multiple Community Days in conjunction with NCWU in an effort to connect youth soccer with our university athletics program.
Kevin’s desire to link the community to the campus extends beyond the soccer field. He has also worked to obtain sponsorships and foster connections from local businesses to help with improvements of Wesleyan’s Disc Golf Course and the Bishops Disc Golf Club. Kevin has previously served as an Alumni Class Champion and was recently appointed to the Alumni Board, as well as the President’s Advisory Community Council.
Above all, Kevin views his greatest accomplishment as his 18-year marriage with his wife, Jenny, and his children, Payne and Abby. The Snyder family can regularly be found on campus at sporting events, alumni events or volunteering efforts towards the betterment of the NCWU campus and community.
Rock the Mount Event
Afterwards, students exited The Dunn Center greeted by a cheering crowd of returning students, faculty, staff and friends of NC Wesleyan forming a time-honored tradition鈥 the Bishop Tunnel. As they continued through the tunnel to enter the annual Rock the Mount event, they were each welcomed by President Duff and his wife, Marcy. Rock the Mount is a tradition at NCWU of welcoming new students to campus and to the community. Each year, it takes place the day before the University鈥檚 first day of classes, serving as the official kick-off event for the new academic year. Organizations come out to support and celebrate the start of a new school year with food, music and advertising. This year, almost 110 community organizations lined the center of campus to celebrate Wesleyan鈥檚 Class of 2028. Local food trucks will be on-site to provide a variety of food options for everyone such as: 3 Boys Catering, Minnies Food and Thingz, Sweet P鈥檚 Galaxy Lemonade, Shawarmalicious, and Carolina Shaved Ice. Live entertainment will be provided by Relay Relay; Story Charlamagne, and DJ 3two1!
View the Photo Galleries for Student Convocation and Rock the Mount event!
Lancaster Family Establishes Endowed Scholarship
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA 鈥 The Lancaster family joined Dr. Evan D. Duff, President of 麻豆原创, to formalize the creation of The William Ted & Karen Naylor Lancaster Family Endowed Scholarship. This scholarship honors the legacy and contributions of the late William Ted Lancaster and Karen Naylor Lancaster, both proud graduates of NCWU鈥檚 Class of 1970.
The scholarship will distribute a minimum of $2,500 annually once the endowment reaches $50,000. Preference will be given to students from Rocky Mount, NC, who demonstrate academic achievement (minimum GPA of 2.5), good personal character, and financial need. Recipients may continue to receive the scholarship in successive years if they meet the criteria.
Karen Naylor Lancaster shared, “When I walked on campus for the first time in 1966, I had no idea the influence Wesleyan would have on me. Not only did I get an excellent education, but I met my life partner. Ted and I met in a history class, we were both history majors, and married in 1970. We moved to Raleigh and had our two children, Jon and Melissa. It was so special to be able to share Wesleyan鈥檚 beautiful campus with my family including my two grandchildren. It is an honor to help Rocky Mount students achieve their academic goals through this scholarship.”
Jon Lancaster, representing the family, added, “Knowing the significant role NC Wesleyan played in our parents’ lives, it was important to us to give back to the institution. We hope this endowment will assist future students in fulfilling their educational goals.”
Tammy Robinson, Director of Donor Engagement, stated, 鈥淭he Lancaster family鈥檚 generosity began over five years ago with gifts supporting Wesleyan students through an annual scholarship. It is gratifying to have another endowed scholarship that will leave a legacy for Wesleyan alumni. This gift will continue to impact and make a difference for our students.鈥
NCWU Students participate in NCDHHS Internship
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA 鈥 麻豆原创 students, Nayonna Bland and Makaela Stokes, have accepted an internship with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) as part of the department鈥檚 . This paid summer internship is a component of the department鈥檚 workforce development initiative to build a strong and inclusive workforce by increasing the number of human services professionals to provide for the growing number of residents in North Carolina.
鈥淲e are looking toward the future in NCDHHS by workforce that supports all North Carolinians,鈥 said NCDHHS Secretary Kody H. Kinsley. 鈥淲e genuinely applaud each of these young professionals for their assistance in helping NCDHHS protect the health, safety and well-being of the people in our communities now and into the future.鈥
Stokes and Bland will be working on a project with NCDHHS鈥 Division of Health Benefits. The internship will last 10 weeks and will include work in the assigned project area, seminars, presentation practice and an immersion event at the end of the internship experience.鈥
鈥淣CDHHS is now in its 6th Cohort of HBCU/MSI Change Champion Interns, connecting with over 150 students since 2022. We are creating a strong and inclusive workforce by building a pipeline to the public health and human services professions for this generation,鈥 said Angela Bryant, NCDHHS鈥 Assistant Secretary for the Health Equity Portfolio. 鈥淣CDHHS is excited that Makaela and Nayonna have chosen to join 41 other graduate and undergraduate interns to help build the workforce needed to improve the health, safety and well-being of all North Carolinians.鈥
NC Wesleyan believes that student engagement is vital to rewarding social lives, strengthening leadership skills, and the desire to make a difference on campus and the community. We encourage students to get involved and make most of their collegiate experience. We are so proud of these Bishops for taking advantage of this opportunity and taking a step further to make most of their journey. Both of these students will be able to apply the skills learned during their internship with DHHS towards their respective careers in the social sector.
Maryhelen Willhite Endowed Scholarship Established
ROCKY MOUNT, NORTH CAROLINA 鈥 Bishops are often asked, 鈥淲hat makes Wesleyan different?鈥 or 鈥淲hy Wesleyan?鈥 The answer is simple. It is the people, the community. This is proven once again by another generous donor, Maryhelen Willhite Jones.
Maryhelen is the daughter of the late Dr. W. Lyle Willhite who was a professor at NC Wesleyan from 1976 to 1984. Her dedication and commitment to Wesleyan runs deep and in 1996, she was able to assist one of Dr. Willhite鈥檚 former students, Rick Bradham III, 鈥81, in establishing The Dr. W.L. Willhite Endowed Scholarship.
Because of her late father鈥檚 influence, Maryhelen made her first contribution in the spring of 2024 to establish The Maryhelen Willhite Jones Endowed Scholarship, her own Second Generation Legacy Scholarship. This award will be given to undergraduate students majoring in Marketing who have excelled in academic and extracurricular accomplishments at NCWU.
Dr. Willhite instilled in Maryhelen to be bold and give with purpose and passion. Now she has been able to 鈥渂ring that 鈥榗an do鈥 boldness to NCWU through another endowed scholarship with the Willhite name.鈥
Maryhelen says 鈥淚 believe in not only paying things forward, but also paying them inward.鈥
Although her background is in the Arts, International Relations, and Information/ Library Sciences, she has a passion for all things Marketing: brands, products, companies, non-profits, social causes, innovations, and ideas. Maryhelen states, 鈥淚f I had to do it over again, I would go into the field of Marketing. What I can do instead is to help support those who decide to do just that.鈥
Maryhelen knows that Wesleyan鈥檚 undergraduate marketing degree involves research skills, critical thinking, demographics, collaboration, creativity, communication, persuasion, information, observation, social, economic, and cultural considerations, and yes, sometimes playfulness!
鈥淢y ultimate focus is on the students, who no matter what their career fields end up to be, are ethically grounded and have a strong moral self-compass,鈥 says Maryhelen Willhite Jones.
鈥淭he Dr. W. L. Willhite Endowed Scholarship has been financially supporting Wesleyan students for over 27 years. To have a scholarship established by his daughter, Maryhelen, that will impact lives in the same way is a grand gesture. We are grateful for the ongoing support from the Willhite family, which will continue to make a difference for future Wesleyan alumni. The relationship developed has been meaningful and of great significance.鈥
