Business school changes admissions model

More high school seniors now can enter UNC-Chapel Hill knowing they’ll have a place in the undergraduate business program.

The new Future Business Admits program offers selected Carolina applicants a guaranteed pathway into the UBP in their sophomore year after they complete first-year pre-requisites. Acceptance is based on exemplary academic performance in high school, demonstrated leadership and meaningful extracurricular involvement.

“Our goal for guaranteeing admission to a larger cohort of students at the start of their academic journeys is to enhance their career success through earlier access to resources, mentorship and professional development opportunities,” says Jordan Hale, UBP assistant dean. “This also provides a more predictable, supportive pathway for students interested in pursuing business education and makes it possible for them to spend more time engaging in campus life.”

A stronger start and more time to grow into business

FBA students’ first year at Carolina is intentionally broad and enriching, grounded in the Ideas in Action general education curriculum.

While they complete their business pre-requisite courses and general education requirements, they will take two foundational UNC Kenan-Flagler courses: Introduction to Business: People, Profits, Planet in the fall and Unlocking Your Leadership Potential in the spring.

FBA students will receive academic and career advising from the respective University offices in their first year. They may participate in UNC Kenan-Flagler career programming that is open to all undergraduates, including the Undergraduate Business Symposium, career treks, case competitions, industry bootcamps and employer information sessions. Like all undergraduates, they can join UBP clubs and affinity groups.

Easing stress, increasing access

The FBA model keeps Carolina competitive with peer institutions that offer direct admission to business majors and provides a more predictable college experience for students and their families.

This change addresses wellness concerns associated with the intra-transfer application process. The high-stakes nature of applying to the UBP after their first year has contributed to stress and anxiety for students who are still making the transition from high school to college.

It also aligns with the state’s request to increase UBP enrollment, reflecting the growing demand for Carolina graduates who contribute to the region’s economic development.

The FBA program admitted 200 students in 2025 and will grow to 400 students in 2026. Ultimately, this new admissions model will mean the majority of UBP students will be admitted when they enroll at Carolina. The intra-transfer application process remains for students who discover their interest in business after arriving at the University.

The FBA model also offers students long-term academic and personal benefits.

As part of a defined cohort, FBA students will build strong peer connections from the start — connections that deepen across their business coursework, co-curricular activities and broader Carolina experience. With early exposure to business concepts, leadership development and career exploration, they will start forming their academic and professional identities in their first year and approach their time at Carolina with greater focus and confidence.

In their second year, students will have the flexibility to pursue second majors, minors, study abroad, honors programs and undergraduate research to enrich their education.

“The FBA model reflects our commitment to putting students first,” says Shimul Melwani, UBP associate dean. “By creating a clearer and more supportive path into the business major, we’re making space for students to thrive academically and personally while preparing them earlier for the challenges of a rapidly evolving business world.”

For more information, email ubpadmissions@kenan-flagler.unc.edu.