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Norfolk State University

Norfolk, Virginia · Public

$13k/yearCost after aid
May 31Application deadline

FindU Grade

B-Value
N/ACampus
CAcademics
C-Admissions
BStudent Life
C+Overall

About

Norfolk State University is located in Norfolk, Virginia. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 5,495 students.

nsu.edu
HBCU

Cost and aid

True cost

Great value
$13kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$9,910
Out-of-state tuition$21,412
Room & board$11,692
Avg aid package$11,153
Students receiving aid62%
Pell grant recipients62%

Norfolk State University provides an affordable education, with a net price of $12,272 per year. A significant 97% of students receive financial aid, making it accessible for many. The university also offers various scholarships to help students manage the cost of tuition.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%840–1100
4001600
ACT · middle 50%16–21
136

Application info

Acceptance rate87%
Average GPA2.84
Student–faculty ratio18:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$25

Application dates

PriorityMay 31
Regular DecisionMay 31

Norfolk State University has an acceptance rate of 87%, making it relatively accessible. The university considers SAT/ACT scores but does not require them. A high school GPA is required for admission, and the application fee is $25. The university accepts the Common App.

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Academics

Graduation rate36%
Retention rate72%
Student–faculty ratio18:1
Full-time faculty63%

Norfolk State University fosters a supportive academic environment with helpful and dedicated professors. The university emphasizes the development of time management and self-motivation skills. With a student-faculty ratio of 15:1 and 66% of classes having fewer than 20 students, students receive personalized attention.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$44,666
Avg starting salary$44,666
Earn more than HS grad57%
Economic mobility344%
Loan default (3 yr)12%
Loan repayment (3 yr)27%

Norfolk State University boasts a high employment rate, with 94% of graduates employed one year after graduation. The university's career services provide support in securing internships and preparing for real-world careers. The median starting salary for alumni is around $44,600.

Student life

Demographics

Medium School
5,495Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 67%Male 33%
84% BlackRacial diversity
Black 84%Hispanic 5%White 2%Asian 0%Other 9%
Greek lifeYes
Campus housingYes

Norfolk State University offers a vibrant campus life with a variety of activities and organizations. Greek life is prominent, and the university hosts events like bowling and go-karting nights. The campus community is friendly and diverse, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all students.

Student reviews

Professors

Student

As a Fine Arts major at Norfolk State University, my experience has been both challenging and inspiring. Being at an HBCU like Norfolk State has allowed me to grow not only as an artist, but also as a person.

Student

My overall experience at NSU has been pretty mixed. Academically, I haven’t been very satisfied because the professors and administration often feel unhelpful, hard to reach, or even a little rude at times, which makes it frustrating when I’m trying to get support or clear information.

Campus and vibes

Student

I would recommend taking calculus in High School that way the required math you have to take for Computer Science isn't foreign too you.My biggest challenge was living with a roommate. My particular roommate believed college was all about the party life but not working hard on his studies to make to balance it all out.

Student

The process was relatively easy. I didn't have to do a special application when applying. I just enrolled and listed Journalism as my choice.

Student

I enjoy the campus life the environment is friendly.The campus buildings are clean the events are sponsored by big organizations and the programs involves student life like sports teams,Greek organizations and the college staff.

About Norfolk State University

Campus safety at Norfolk State University is considered average, with regular police patrols. While the surrounding area has some safety concerns, many students feel secure on campus. The university enforces strict policies against underage drinking, drug use, and academic dishonesty.

The Robert C. Nusbaum Honors College at Norfolk State University offers an enriched and challenging program for high-achieving students. The program emphasizes academic excellence, professional preparation, personal growth, and community service. Honors students have opportunities to study abroad, present at conferences, and work closely with faculty on research projects.

Norfolk State University embraces diversity, with students from various ethnic backgrounds, including international students. The university provides a culturally rich campus experience where students can share and learn about different cultures. Students from 25 countries are represented at NSU, with the majority coming from India, Kenya, and Nepal.

Endowment$68,263,710
Avg faculty salary$114,240

Norfolk State University FAQ

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Norfolk State University admits about 87% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

76%Your chances
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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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