
PO Box 128, Banner Elk, NC 28604, USA


Lees-McRae College holds regional accreditation from a recognized accrediting body, ensuring that it meets established standards of academic quality and institutional effectiveness. This accreditation affirms that the college maintains rigorous educational programs and appropriate administrative practices, which can be crucial for students seeking transfer credits or graduate study opportunities.
In addition to institutional accreditation, specific programs within the college may have specialized accreditations that reflect adherence to professional standards in their respective fields. Such programmatic accreditations provide further assurance regarding the quality and relevance of the curriculum and can enhance graduates' credentials in the job market.
Prospective students should verify the current accreditation status directly with Lees-McRae College or relevant accrediting agencies to ensure that their chosen field of study aligns with recognized standards, which can impact financial aid eligibility and post-graduation opportunities.
Lees-McRae College requires applicants to have completed a General Educational Development (GED) or an equivalent secondary education. Prospective students must submit their secondary school records and demonstrate an acceptable grade point average. While standardized admissions test scores are not explicitly mandated, the college requires the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for applicants whose first language is not English. Additional tests may be recommended but are not compulsory.
Applicants should note that Lees-McRae College does not operate an open admission policy and does not accept dual credit for early college coursework. However, the institution does award credit for Advanced Placement (AP) exams, allowing some students to accelerate their studies. Basic computer access is not a prerequisite, nor is a leased computer program offered through the college.
The acceptance rate at Lees-McRae College is approximately 81%, placing it within the more accessible range of U. S. colleges. The average SAT score of enrolled students is 1140, which is considered average and ranks in the lower 45th percentile nationally. The average ACT composite score is 23, also classified as average and falling around the lower 40th percentile. These figures suggest that the college welcomes a broad spectrum of academic abilities.
Lees-McRae College requires prospective students to submit an application fee as part of their enrollment process. This fee helps cover administrative costs associated with reviewing applications. However, the college provides options for fee waivers to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder qualified applicants from applying.
Students who demonstrate financial need or participate in specific programs may be eligible to have their application fees waived. These waivers are intended to increase access and support diversity within the student body. Applicants should check with the admissions office for detailed eligibility criteria and the process for requesting a waiver.
By offering fee waivers, Lees-McRae College accommodates a broader range of applicants, making the application process more accessible to those who might otherwise be deterred by cost.
Lees-McRae College hosts an ROTC branch unit on its campus, providing students with direct access to military training and leadership development opportunities. This presence allows prospective students interested in military careers to engage with ROTC programs without needing to transfer to another institution. The on-campus unit supports the college community by integrating military education alongside its academic offerings, making it a viable option for those seeking both college degrees and ROTC experience.
Lees-McRae College permits prospective transfer students to apply for admission in the fall, spring, and summer terms, offering flexibility in start dates. The institution accepts transfer credits and recognizes standardized examination credits, including CLEP subject exams and DANTES credits. Additionally, recommendations are welcomed as part of the transfer application process. These policies suggest a degree of openness to previous academic work, facilitating smoother transitions for transfer applicants.
Lees-McRae College offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enrich students' academic and cultural experiences. These programs provide immersive international learning environments, allowing students to take courses and engage with different cultures while earning credit toward their degrees. The college collaborates with partner institutions worldwide to facilitate semester-long, short-term, and faculty-led trips, catering to diverse academic interests and schedules.
The study abroad options include semester or year-long exchanges where students live and study at a foreign university, gaining firsthand knowledge of global perspectives. Additionally, shorter programs are available during summer or winter breaks, focusing on specific disciplines or projects under the guidance of faculty members. These short-term experiences are often more accessible for students who cannot commit to longer programs but still wish to benefit from international exposure.
Lees-McRae College emphasizes personalized advising throughout the study abroad process to ensure that students select programs aligning with their academic goals and career aspirations. Financial aid and scholarship resources are also available to assist with costs, making international study feasible for a broader range of students. Overall, the college's various program lengths and destinations enable students to find opportunities that fit their academic plans and personal interests.
Median composite SAT score
1140Median composite ACT score
23High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
Data not availableFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
YesApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer