About

About Jackson State University

hbcudoctoral research universityhigh acceptance ratepre med programsmississippi based public school

Jackson State University is a public research university in Jackson, MS, known for its hbcu, doctoral research university, and high acceptance rate. With an acceptance rate of 89%, JSU is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 1,132 students each year. JSU is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 1073–1210, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. JSU offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $8,085 per year; the sticker price of $26,326 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Jackson State University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

89%
Overall Accept Rate
1142
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 1073 – 1210 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Jackson State University

The first 2 tips apply to all applicants. Your personalized strategy requires your profile — build your free list to unlock it.

Essay Strategy
Jackson State is a proud HBCU with a strong culture of community uplift and service to Mississippi. If you write a personal statement or any supplemental writing, connect your goals to how you plan to contribute to that mission, not just what you hope to gain.
Test Score Strategy
Since Jackson State is test optional and your score falls below their 75th percentile, you are better off not submitting it and letting your GPA, activities, and any other strengths carry your application.

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Financial Aid & Cost

What Jackson State University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceEst. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$26k/yr$22.9k
30k-48k~$26k/yr$22.5k
48k-75k~$26k/yr$26.2k
75k-110k~$26k/yr$26.4k
110k+~$26k/yr$27.6k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

32%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$31k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
14:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
4,216
Undergrad Enrollment
Jackson State University Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch