About

About West Virginia State University

hbcuopen access admissionssmall class sizesmasters programsbusiness and education focus

West Virginia State University is a public university in Institute, WV, known for its hbcu, open access admissions, and small class sizes. With an acceptance rate of 96%, VSU is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 331 students each year. VSU is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 840–1065, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. VSU offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $7,391 per year; the sticker price of $31,458 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

West Virginia State University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

96%
Overall Accept Rate
953
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 840 – 1065 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to West Virginia State University

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

Application Strategy
West Virginia State is an HBCU with a distinctive history as a historically Black institution that became majority non-Black, so in your application highlight why you are drawn to that unique multicultural environment and what you will contribute to that community.
Application Strategy
WVSU has strong programs in criminal justice, business, and education, so make sure your application clearly connects your intended major to specific programs, faculty, or facilities on campus rather than speaking about the school in general terms.

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Financial Aid & Cost

What West Virginia State University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceEst. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$31k/yr$9.5k
30k-48k~$31k/yr$10.2k
48k-75k~$31k/yr$10.7k
75k-110k~$31k/yr$13.8k
110k+~$31k/yr$17.4k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

34%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$33k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
12:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
1,877
Undergrad Enrollment
West Virginia State University Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch