Gardner-Webb University Participates in No-Fee Direct Admission Program

Offered Through North Carolina Independent Colleges & Universities, Initiative Simplifies Application Process

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University is one of 26 North Carolina Independent Colleges & Universities (NCICU) participating in the NCICU Direct Admission Program for the 2025-2026 academic year. This groundbreaking initiative simplifies the college application process for North Carolina high school seniors with a weighted GPA of 2.8 or higher.

In just five minutes, students can complete their application at www.ncicu.org without the worry of any application fees. Among the 36 NCICU campuses, 26 are part of this innovative program, offering eligible students the exciting opportunity to confirm their acceptance.

“Gardner-Webb is pleased to partner with NCICU and to join with peer institutions across the state in making the goal of a college education more achievable than ever,” shared GWU President Dr. William M. Downs. “As the value of a Gardner-Webb degree continues to rise, so too should access increase for eligible high school seniors. This new program is a major step forward.”

The NCICU Direct Admission Program provides a seamless and swift application process. By answering a few straightforward questions, students will receive information directly from the colleges and universities of their choice, including details about conditional acceptance, specific campus requirements, and available financial aid options. This streamlined process is designed to make the college application experience as stress-free as possible.

NCICU will distribute Counselor’s Handbooks to over 1,000 North Carolina school counselors, which includes information about the Direct Admission Program this year. NCICU President Dr. A. Hope Williams said this initiative will give 70,000 students the opportunity to find the college that is right for them. “Informing students about their options at these 26 private, non-profit colleges and universities enhances their educational opportunities,” Williams said. “The program will also contribute to meeting the state’s myFutureNC educational attainment goal.”

NCICU encourages all students to prioritize completing their FAFSA and seize the opportunities presented by the North Carolina Need-Based Scholarship, Federal Pell Grants, and significant Institutional Aid available at NCICU campuses. These financial aid programs provide crucial financial support to help ease the burden of college expenses.

All NCICU colleges and universities also offer the traditional admissions process. Click here for more information about the NCICU Direct Admission Program.

About NCICU

North Carolina Independent Colleges & Universities (NCICU) supports, represents, and advocates for North Carolina independent higher education in the areas of state and federal public policy and on education issues with the other sectors of education in the state. It also raises funds through the Independent College Fund of North Carolina for student scholarships and enrichment experiences, provides research and information to and about private colleges and universities, conducts staff development opportunities and coordinates collaborative programs. Presidents of the 36 colleges and universities comprise the NCICU Board of Directors.

About Gardner-Webb

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.