Future Students FAQ
Welcome to the NC State Industrial and Systems Engineering graduate programs. We are a top-15-ranked national program.
Last Updated: 03/09/2026 | All information is accurate and still up-to-date
Welcome to the Future Student FAQ, your resource for answers about the NC State Industrial and Systems Engineering Program. Need more help? Contact our program coordinator at ise-undergradoffice@ncsu.edu.
What is Industrial and Systems Engineering?
What do industrial and systems engineers do?
- Industrial and systems engineering is often called the “people person’s” engineering.
- In addition, the field combines the physical and social sciences with engineering principles to improve processes and systems.
- Simply put, industrial and systems engineers find better ways to do things.
- As a result, they improve quality and productivity while reducing waste in time, materials, money and energy.
- To learn more, visit What is Industrial Engineering?
Can I get a job in industrial and systems engineering when I graduate?
YES.
- Industrial and systems engineering is expected to experience continued employment growth over the next decade.
- In fact, this growth is projected to be faster than the average for many occupations.
- Moreover, over 95 percent of our students have a job at graduation.
- In addition, many students secure a job before the start of their final semester.
- At the College of Engineering Career Fair, over one-third of the 300-plus companies recruit industrial engineers.
- To learn more, visit Careers in Industrial Engineering.
What industries hire industrial and systems engineers?
- Industrial and systems engineers work in many industries. As a result, you can apply your skills in a wide variety of settings, including:
- Aerospace
- Automotive
- Banking
- Communications
- Consulting
- Health care
- Insurance
- Petroleum
- Pharmaceuticals
- Transportation
- And many more
- In addition, industrial and systems engineers continue expanding into new and emerging fields. These include nanomanufacturing, advanced manufacturing, 3D printing and biomedical manufacturing.
- Furthermore, they also work in service industries, entertainment companies, shipping and logistics businesses and healthcare organizations.
- Because of this flexibility, industrial and systems engineers are not limited to one industry. Instead, they can keep their career options open and adapt to changing markets.
- As a result, they often remain resilient during shifts within any single industry.
- To learn more, visit What is Industrial Engineering?
Can’t find your answer? Please contact our Undergraduate Services Coordinator | ise-undergradoffice@ncsu.edu | 919.513.2189.
Admissions
What courses must high school students complete to be eligible for freshman admission?
- Freshman applicants who currently attend high school in the United States must meet the UNC-System Minimum Course Requirements.
Can I get credit at NC State for AP, IB or dual-enrollment courses?
- Learn about the recognized test curriculum, accepted test scores and credit awarded for the following exams:
- In addition, you must send all AP and IB score reports to NC State directly from the testing agency.
- The university will not accept scores reported from other sources. Likewise, NC State will not transfer course credit for AP scores awarded by other schools.
- For dual enrollment courses, search the Transferable Credit Database to determine which institution’s credits transfer to NC State.
How do I send my transcript(s) to NC State?
- It is your responsibility to request that your official transcripts be sent to NC State.
- Through The Common Application, you will notify your high school counselor to send your transcript to NC State.
- In addition, transfer applicants must contact all previous colleges to request official transcripts. These transcripts must be mailed or sent electronically to NC State.
- However, NC State cannot accept transcripts sent by fax or email.
NC State University Office of Undergraduate Admissions
Campus Box 7103
Raleigh, NC 27695
What are the undergraduate admissions deadlines?
- Submit your completed application by the deadline to receive a decision on the corresponding notification date.
- In contrast, decisions for international applicants are posted as applications are completed and reviewed.
- For additional details, review the Application Dates and Deadlines.
How do I pay the application fee?
- The application fee for undergraduate admission is $80 for U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
- In comparison, the fee for international students is $100.
- You must pay the fee online through the Common Application website.
- You may use MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express or an online check payment.
How can I update or change my application I have already submitted for undergraduate admissions?
Update your mailing address: To update your mailing address, first log in to your MyPack account using your Unity ID. Then click Personal Information. Next, select Addresses and enter your updated information.
Update your email address: Your email address is connected to your Unity ID. Therefore, contact the office at undergraduate-admissions@ncsu.edu to request an email address update.
Apply for another semester or year: If you already received an admission decision but want reconsideration for a later semester in the same year, submit a new application through the Common App. In addition, submit any updates or changes to your application in writing to undergraduate-admissions@ncsu.edu. Be sure to include your full name and date of birth so staff can locate your application.
Change other application information: If you need to change other details on your application, submit your request in writing. You may send the request by email to undergraduate-admissions@ncsu.edu or by regular mail.
Office of Undergraduate Admissions
NC State University
Campus Box 7103
Raleigh, NC 27695-7103
I have recently been accepted. What do I do next?
View the next steps and resources for admitted students at http://admissions.ncsu.edu/admitted-students/
Can’t find your answer? Please contact our Undergraduate Services Coordinator | ise-undergradoffice@ncsu.edu | 919.513.2189.
Accepted Admission / Next Steps
When will I receive my 9-digit Student (Campus) ID number and my Unity ID? What is the difference between the two?
- After you submit your online application and pay the processing fee, the Graduate School will send your 9-digit NC State Student ID number. Therefore, watch your email for this important update.
- Next, visit the Office of Information Technology website to learn more about Unity and Campus IDs. There, you can find clear instructions and helpful details.
- Later, you will receive your Unity ID and password information in your final admission letter. In addition, you can view your decision letter through the online application portal. To access it, log in using your application password and the PIN you received by email when you created your account. By keeping this information handy, you can easily check your admission status and next steps.
How and when should I enroll in courses?
- Each semester, before enrollment opens for the upcoming term, you will see an Enrollment Advising Hold in your MyPack Portal.
- First, the ISE Undergraduate Office must clear this hold before you can access the online course registration system.
- Therefore, be sure to contact your advisor to discuss your coursework and academic plan.
- In addition, you can learn more about how and when to enroll in courses by visiting Registration & Records Registration Information.
Can’t find your answer? Please contact our Undergraduate Services Coordinator | ise-undergradoffice@ncsu.edu | 919.513.2189.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
How do I apply for financial aid?
Complete the FAFSA® (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) at https://fafsa.gov/. The process is free and usually quick to finish. Therefore, you can apply for federal student aid without any cost.
After you submit the FAFSA, review NC State’s Applying for Aid page for more details. There, you will find helpful information about next steps and deadlines. By completing these steps early, you can explore your financial aid options with confidence.
Can I get an estimate of the aid I may receive?
Use the Net Price Calculator on NC State’s website to estimate your financial aid and out-of-pocket expenses. First, enter the requested information carefully. Then, review the estimate to better understand your potential costs.
As a result, you can plan your budget more confidently. In addition, this tool can help you explore your options before making financial decisions. By using the calculator early, you can prepare for your expenses and avoid surprises later.
I submitted my FAFSA. How do I know if you need anything else from me?
If we need additional information, we will send you a letter from our office. In addition, we will send follow up requests by email. Therefore, please check your email regularly for updates.
You can also monitor your status online at any time. Simply log in to your MyPack Portal and navigate to your financial aid page. There, you can review any outstanding items and next steps. By staying informed and responding quickly, you can keep your financial aid process moving smoothly.
How will I know if I’ve been awarded financial aid and when should I expect to be notified?
We will notify you about your award by email to your NC State email address. In addition, you can view your awards in MyPack Portal under the My Financial Aid section. Therefore, be sure to check both your email and your portal regularly.
If you submit the FAFSA and all requested documents by March 1, you can expect a decision in the first week of April. As a result, you will have time to review your award and plan ahead. By meeting the deadline and monitoring your account, you can stay informed and prepared.
How do I apply for merit scholarships?
- The Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid awards university scholarships. In addition, each of the ten colleges within NC State University also offers scholarships. Therefore, you have multiple opportunities for support.
- If you apply for admission by November 1, you will automatically be considered for merit scholarships. As a result, you do not need to submit a separate application for those awards.
- To explore specific scholarship programs and college-based awards, visit NC State’s Scholarships page. There, you can review eligibility details and deadlines. By checking this information early, you can plan and take full advantage of available opportunities.
How do I apply for need-based scholarships?
The Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid awards university scholarships. In addition, each of the ten colleges within NC State University also offers scholarships. Therefore, you have several opportunities to receive support.
To be considered for need based scholarships, you must apply for admission by November 1. In addition, you must apply for financial aid by March 1. For financial aid, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid FAFSA. By meeting both deadlines, you can qualify for need based funding.
To learn more about specific scholarship programs and college-based awards, visit NC State’s Scholarships page. There, you can review eligibility details and application steps. By exploring your options early, you can maximize your opportunities for financial support.
Can’t find your answer? Please contact our Undergraduate Services Coordinator | ise-undergradoffice@ncsu.edu | 919.513.2189.
Parents and Families
What resources are available to me as a Parent/guardian?
The Office of Parents and Families Services offers a wide range of programs and services for parents. In addition, the office provides helpful resources to support families throughout the year. Therefore, you can stay informed and connected to campus.
To learn more, visit NC State’s parents’ website. There, you will find information about year-round programs and services for NC State families. By exploring these resources, you can stay engaged and support your student with confidence.
How are students notified of their tuition statement and financial aid?
The Cashier’s Office sends billing notifications to each student’s university email address. Therefore, ask your student to check their university email often. By doing so, they can stay current on important updates and deadlines.
In addition, you may want your student to grant you parental access through the MyPack Portal. With this access, you can view financial records and billing details directly. As a result, you can better support your student and help them manage their account responsibly.
As a parent, how do I receive emergency notifications from the University?
In the event of an emergency, the Office of Parents and Families Services will notify all parents. Therefore, you can expect timely communication when urgent situations arise.
To receive these alerts, make sure your current cell phone number is listed in your MyPack Portal record. By keeping your contact information updated, you can ensure you receive important messages without delay.
In addition, the university will post updates on its homepage. You can also find information on NC State’s parents’ website. By checking these sources, you can stay informed and respond quickly if needed.
How do I gain access to MyPack Portal as a Parent/Guardian?
To comply with FERPA, you must create and assign Parent or Guardian Access through MyPack Portal. This system serves as NC State’s online student services platform.
By granting access, you allow your parent or guardian to view selected student information online. For example, they may see transcript details and billing information. Therefore, you control what information is shared.
To begin, log in to MyPack Portal with your Unity ID and password. Next, go to Student Self Service, then Student Center, then Parent Access. After that, click “Add Relationship” and enter the person’s name, email address and relationship. Then, click “Create Parent Access” and read and accept the Informed Consent information.
Next, choose which records to release. You may select Student Account, Academic Info or Directory Info. Then, enter and confirm the parent or guardian email address. Create a PIN and a hint for phone access. Finally, click Submit to grant consent.
To access transcript information by phone, call Registration and Records at 919.515.2572.
Financial information is available by calling:
- University Cashier’s Office | 919.515.2986
- Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid | 919.515.242
- Communication Technologies | 919.515.7099, option 1
Where can students find part-time employment on campus?
Visit jobs.ncsu.edu to explore job listings across campus. There, you can find a wide range of employment opportunities for students.
Can’t find your answer? Please contact our Undergraduate Services Coordinator | ise-undergradoffice@ncsu.edu | 919.513.2189.
Student Life
How many students attend NC State?
As of the Fall 2025 semester, NC State University enrolled 40,500 undergraduate and graduate students. Since then, enrollment numbers may have changed.
For the most current information about NC State and its student body, visit the University Planning and Analysis “Fast Facts” section. There, you can review updated data and key statistics. By checking this resource, you can gain a clear and accurate overview of the university community.
What are the male-to-female and multicultural statistics of the students at NC State?
For the most current information about the makeup of NC State students, visit the University’s Office of Equal Opportunity website. There, you can find updated data about the student population.
In addition, the site provides helpful details about diversity and campus demographics. By reviewing this information, you can better understand the NC State community and its commitment to inclusion.
How do I get a parking permit?
To apply for a parking permit, log in to your MyPack Portal. Next, click on “Parking Permit.” You will find this option in Student Self Service under the Enrollment menu.
If you need additional details, visit the Transportation website. There, you can review permit options, rates and important deadlines. By checking both resources, you can complete your parking request quickly and confidently.
Can’t find your answer? Please contact our Undergraduate Services Coordinator | ise-undergradoffice@ncsu.edu | 919.513.2189.