For students across North Carolina who are passionate about science, technology, engineering, and math, the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics, better known as NCSSM, offers an incredible, tuition-free opportunity unlike any other.
NCSSM is a public, state-supported high school
for academically gifted 11th and 12th-grade students. Focusing on STEM and college-level coursework, the school provides students with a rigorous and enriching environment where curiosity, creativity, and leadership thrive. Students can attend NCSSM in one of two ways: through a residential program or an online program.
Ellie Drake, a student who chose the online program, shared her reasons for choosing NCSSM: “I was hoping to go to NCSSM because they offer some more classes that are not available at West, things that I’m more specifically interested in, like aerospace engineering, which I want to do as a career, and also offer more challenging courses that we don’t offer at West.” She chose the online path because of her many commitments at her current school, adding, “I want to do it online because I am very involved here at West, like I’m involved in the marching band, and I do soccer, and swim, so I would have those extracurriculars.”
The residential program is offered on two campuses, in Durham and Morganton, where students live on-site and engage in a full-time academic experience. Campus life is collaborative and lively, with students participating in research, clubs, and social activities, all while taking advanced courses in math, science, humanities, and the arts. It’s a chance to engage yourself in learning, build strong friendships, and prepare for college in a dynamic, supportive environment.
Hunter Kitchen, who chose the residential program, said, “I hope to learn my interests, what I want to do later in life as a job. I’m most excited for the independent factor of it and living over there, and meeting new people.” His enthusiasm reflects the excitement many students feel about stepping into an environment filled with like-minded peers and new opportunities.
For those who prefer to stay enrolled at their local high schools, NCSSM also offers a statewide online program. This virtual experience allows students to take advanced STEM and humanities courses not typically available in most schools, all while remaining part of their home communities. Online students are also invited to participate in on-campus events like college fairs, project meetups, and prom.
Ellie Drake, a student who chose the online program, shared her reasons for choosing NCSSM, “I was hoping to go to NCSSM because they offer some more classes that are not available at West, things that I’m more specifically interested in, like aerospace engineering, which I want to do as a career, and also offer more challenging courses that we don’t offer at West.” She chose the online path because of her many commitments at her current school, adding, “I want to do it online because I am very involved here at West, like I’m involved in the marching band, and I do soccer, and swim, so I would have those extracurriculars.”
Admission to NCSSM is highly competitive. Students apply during their 10th-grade year and must be legal residents of North Carolina by December 1 of the application year. The application process includes a holistic review of academic performance, interest in STEM, recommendations from teachers and counselors, and several essays. NCSSM looks for students who are not only strong academically but also show a genuine passion for STEM fields through their activities, competitions, and personal interests.
The goal of NCSSM is to build a community of well-rounded, curious, and driven students who are excited about learning and ready to make a difference. In return, students receive top-tier preparation for college and beyond, including opportunities for research, independent study, and even guaranteed admission to UNC System universities for those who meet certain academic criteria.
If you’re a 9th or 10th grader with big dreams in science, math, or technology, NCSSM might just be the next step in your journey.
