About

About Shepherd University

public liberal artssmall class sizesopen access admissionshealth sciences focus

Shepherd University is a public university in Shepherdstown, WV, known for its public liberal arts, small class sizes, and open access admissions. With an acceptance rate of 96%, Shepherd University is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 553 students each year. Shepherd University is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 930–1170, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. Shepherd University offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $9,787 per year; the sticker price of $32,947 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Shepherd University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

96%
Overall Accept Rate
1050
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 930 – 1170 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Shepherd University

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

Application Strategy
With a 96% acceptance rate, Shepherd University is very likely to admit you, so focus your energy on completing your application early in the fall to lock in your spot and get ahead of housing and orientation sign-ups.
Demonstrated Interest
Shepherdstown is a small historic town on the Potomac River, so if you can visit campus, stop by the Frank Center for the Arts or walk the downtown area and mention specific things you noticed in any communication with admissions to show genuine interest in the community.

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Financial Aid & Cost

What Shepherd University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceEst. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$33k/yr$7.9k
30k-48k~$33k/yr$7.8k
48k-75k~$33k/yr$10.1k
75k-110k~$33k/yr$14.0k
110k+~$33k/yr$15.9k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

50%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$44k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
14:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
2,196
Undergrad Enrollment
Shepherd University Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch