College Raptor Ranks UNC Asheville a Hidden Gem in the Southeast and for Affordability

UNC Asheville is featured in College Raptor’s 2023 rankings as a Hidden Gem College in the Southeast, and as one of 25 Hidden Gem Colleges for the Middle Class, based on affordability. It is also the only public university in North Carolina to rank as a Hidden Gem College in the Southeast. 

The ranking is designed to bring attention to colleges with fewer than 7,000 students that might “fly under the radar,” but are notable for their academic, financial and social qualities. 

“With our small classes, robust academic programs, expert faculty and staff, and professional and community engagement opportunities, there’s never been a doubt that UNC Asheville is a gem,” said Chancellor Nancy J. Cable. 

UNC Asheville also ranked #6 of 25 schools nationwide featured on the Hidden Gem Colleges for the Middle Class. 

Colleges were ranked for affordability based on the estimated net price at each institution for a “typical” middle-class family, described as a family of four with one student in college, a family income of $80k, and family assets of $50k. 

UNC Asheville was the only school in North Carolina to be featured on the affordability list.