The Carolina Covenant

Since 2004, the Carolina Covenant — UNC-Chapel Hill’s groundbreaking program for students from low-income families — has supported more than 11,000 scholars, providing an opportunity to graduate debt-free through scholarships, work-study and grants.

Candice Powell smiling while looking straight ahead

‘An extraordinary feat’

“To enable thousands of outrageously talented students to graduate from Carolina debt-free is an extraordinary feat, one that continues to attract bright minds to our University.”

— Candice Williams ’06, ’21 (PhD), director of the Carolina Covenant

READ DIRECTOR'S LETTER

Carolina Covenant quick facts

All Carolina students are admitted before ever being assessed for financial need and dozens of faculty and staff mentors currently support and guide Carolina Covenant Scholars.

Almost 10%

of all undergraduates are Carolina Covenant Scholars.

More than 40%

Amount that the four-year graduation rate of Carolina Covenant Scholars has increased since 2004.

Nearly 50%

of Carolina Covenant Scholars are first-generation college students.

About 80%

of Carolina Covenant alumni have enrolled in graduate school.

A stronger future

Matthew Thornton looks into the distance with the Bell Tower in the background.

Access, Affordability & Scholarships

2 min read

A passion for math leads to a new path

Covenant Scholar reflects on his path to Carolina.

Naomi King smiles at the camera with the Bell Tower in the background.

Access, Affordability & Scholarships

2 min read

Aspiring nurse leader embraces community and purpose

Carolina Covenant instrumental for daughter of Marine.

“I’ve always had this desire to help someone if they were in need. That’s why I want to go into dental hygiene and help people be more confident in their smiles.”

Shayla Woods standing in front of the Old Well

Shayla Woods ‘27

Dental Hygiene Major

“The Carolina Covenant is the sole reason I am at Carolina today. I am grateful every day for the program that welcomed me to the Carolina community.”

Lillian Harbison ‘26

Advertising and Public Relations Major

“I am the first of my siblings to go to college, so I cannot say thank you enough. Thank you on behalf of all who received this blessing.”

Zack Moore standing in front of the Old Well

Zachary Moore ‘26

History and Political Science Major

Thank you!

Because of your support, more than 11,000 students have had the opportunity to graduate without debt from UNC-Chapel Hill over the Carolina Covenant’s 20-year history. Thank you for your generosity and commitment to bringing access and excellence together at Carolina.

Carolina Covenant Impact Reports