About

About Norfolk State University

hbcupublic universityhigh acceptance ratehealth sciences focusbusiness and social sciences

Norfolk State University is a public university in Norfolk, VA, known for its hbcu, public university, and high acceptance rate. With an acceptance rate of 90%, NSU is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 1,300 students each year. NSU is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 840–1040, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. NSU offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $10,462 per year; the sticker price of $37,878 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Norfolk State University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

90%
Overall Accept Rate
940
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 840 – 1040 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Norfolk 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
Norfolk State is an HBCU with a strong commitment to community uplift and student empowerment, so use your personal statement to show how that mission connects to your own goals and background. Admissions readers want to see that you understand what NSU stands for, not just that you need a school to attend.
Test Score Strategy
NSU is test optional, so if your score is below their typical range, leave it off your application and let your grades and activities speak for you instead.

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Financial Aid & Cost

What Norfolk State University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceEst. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$38k/yr$12.8k
30k-48k~$38k/yr$13.9k
48k-75k~$38k/yr$15.5k
75k-110k~$38k/yr$18.0k
110k+~$38k/yr$26.2k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

33%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$33k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
16:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
4,601
Undergrad Enrollment
Norfolk State University Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch