Carolina University is a small private Christian university in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, known until 2022 as Piedmont International University. It offers business, education, psychology, ministry and an MBA, with a large share of international students for its size. Classes are small and the campus is near downtown Winston-Salem.
Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States
Official website: carolinau.edu
1945 in Winston-Salem
Carolina University since 2022
Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools and SACSCOC
$12,000 – $20,000
International students, before scholarships
$11,000 – $14,000
Rent, food and local transport
Approximate figures for 2026-27, please verify. Fees change every year and vary by course, so check the latest amount on carolinau.edu before you apply.
MBA
Masters DegreeDuration
18 Months
Intake
Aug, Jan, May
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.0, TOEFL: 71
BS Business Administration
Bachelors DegreeDuration
48 Months
Intake
Aug, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.0, TOEFL: 61
BS Psychology
Bachelors DegreeDuration
48 Months
Intake
Aug, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.0, TOEFL: 61
MA Education
Masters DegreeDuration
24 Months
Intake
Aug, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.0, TOEFL: 71
Small classes, often under 20 students.
A high proportion of international students for a small university.
Winston-Salem's revived downtown is a short drive away.
Graduates work in business, education and church and nonprofit roles.
The MBA suits students aiming for management jobs in the Carolinas.
Check OPT eligibility for your programme before you apply.
Undergrad
Rolling
Postgrad
Rolling
Undergrad
Rolling
Postgrad
Rolling
Undergrad
No UG intake
Postgrad
Rolling
The campus is small and walkable, with housing, classrooms and a library close together.
Winston-Salem is a mid-sized city with low rent, an arts district and Wake Forest's medical centre as a big employer. Charlotte is about 90 minutes away.
Form I-20 issued by Carolina University
Proof of funds for one academic year
SEVIS I-901 fee payment receipt
Completed DS-160 online application
US embassy or consulate interview
Passport valid six months beyond stay
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. International students should apply at least three to four months before the term starts.
Most programmes start in fall and spring, and the MBA also has a summer start.
You'll need an F-1 visa. Once you accept your offer and send proof of funding, Carolina University issues the Form I-20. After that it's the SEVIS fee, the DS-160 form and an interview at a US embassy or consulate.
The MBA, business administration, psychology and education are popular. Graduate programmes need a bachelor's degree and IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 71.
Carolina University offers some institutional scholarships. Ask admissions what's available for international students.
