Fayetteville State University logo

Fayetteville State University

Accept Rate
79.89%
Grad Rate
39.3%
Enrollment
5,493
Avg SAT
972
Tuition
$3,969
Median Salary
$40,144
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
A+
Value
C
Admissions
B-
Diversity
B
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Fayetteville State University offers a supportive and close-knit HBCU atmosphere where students feel a strong sense of community and belonging. The campus is a vibrant hub of activity, with a focus on academic success and cultural pride. It feels like a place where faculty genuinely know your name and are invested in your growth.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

79.89%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 97275th Pctl
8551045
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 1775th Pctl
1520
1122436

Admissions Tips

When applying, be sure to highlight your leadership experiences and community involvement in your personal essay, as FSU values well-rounded students. Since the average SAT score is around 972, focus on achieving a strong GPA in core academic subjects. For the best financial aid package, complete the FAFSA as early as possible and apply for FSU-specific scholarships through the university portal.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
972
40080012001600
School range: 855โ€“1045

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

FSU is a leader in STEM education through its prestigious Bronco STAR program, offering robust research opportunities for undergraduates. The university is also highly regarded for its professional programs in Business, Education, and Criminal Justice, with a teaching model that emphasizes personalized attention. Small class sizes allow for meaningful mentorship from dedicated faculty.

Popular Majors

Business & Marketing
19.7%
Health Professions
16.9%
Psychology
14.4%
Criminal Justice
13.2%
Social Sciences
6.2%
Education
5.7%
Biology & Biomedical
4.1%
Public Administration
3.8%
Computer Science
1.9%
English & Literature
1.9%
Visual & Performing Arts
1.5%
Communications
1.2%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

39.3%
Graduation Rate
77.7%
Retention Rate
5,493
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$3,969
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$7,360
After financial aid
Total Cost
$16,098
Cost of attendance/year
52.6%
Receive Pell Grants
45.9%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Fayetteville

Students can explore downtown Fayetteville's growing arts scene, with venues like the Cape Fear Regional Theater and the Arts Council. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the nearby Cape Fear River Trail and the historic Airborne & Special Operations Museum. The city also offers a variety of dining options, from Southern comfort food to international cuisine, and hosts numerous community festivals throughout the year.

Local Rent Check

$1,120 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Fayetteville
Explore Fayetteville

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$15,876
$0Est. 4 Years: $15,876

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($40,144):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus has its own police department and is generally considered safe, with well-lit paths and active safety programs. Fayetteville is a large city, so students should practice standard urban safety awareness, especially when venturing off-campus.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Extremely affordable tuition, especially for in-state students
  • โœ“ Strong, supportive HBCU community and culture
  • โœ“ Renowned STEM programs through the Bronco STAR initiative
  • โœ“ Significant financial aid availability and scholarship opportunities

Cons

  • โœ— Graduation and retention rates are below the national average
  • โœ— Off-campus life and entertainment options can be limited
  • โœ— As an urban campus, students must be mindful of city safety

Notable Alumni

Bobby G. Lashley
Professional wrestler and mixed martial artist known for his time in WWE and Bellator.
Darren L. Haynes
Award-winning broadcast journalist and anchor for ABC7/WJLA-TV in Washington, D.C.
Ronald L. Fisher
Vice Admiral in the U.S. Navy and the former commander of the Naval Air Systems Command.

Frequently Asked Questions

Fayetteville State University is a historically black university (HBCU) known for its strong sense of community, affordability, and excellent programs in STEM through its Bronco STAR initiative. It is also highly recognized for its professional programs in Business, Criminal Justice, and Education. The university provides a supportive environment focused on student success and leadership development.

No, Fayetteville State University has an acceptance rate of approximately 80%, making it an accessible option for many students. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 972. While admissions are not highly selective, a strong academic record, including a good GPA and involvement in extracurriculars, will strengthen an application.

Campus life at FSU is community-oriented, with a variety of student organizations, Greek life, and cultural events that celebrate the HBCU experience. Students can participate in athletics, marching band, and numerous clubs focused on academic and social interests. The university provides a supportive atmosphere where students can build lasting relationships and engage in leadership opportunities.

Yes, Fayetteville State University offers an excellent return on investment, particularly for in-state students with a tuition of just $3,969. With an average net price of $7,360 and strong financial aid, it is one of the most affordable paths to a four-year degree. The 10-year median earnings of $40,144 for graduates make it a financially sound choice for a public university education.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Cape Fear Valley Health Fayetteville State University Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg) Methodist University City of Fayetteville
Smart Start Score
45

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Public
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 7,049
  • In-State Tuition $3,969
  • Out-of-State $7,969
  • Zip Code 28301

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 31% โ™€ 69%

The Money Talk

With an average net price of $7,360 and significantly lower in-state tuition, FSU offers exceptional financial value, especially for North Carolina residents. The high Pell Grant rate of 52.6% demonstrates the university's commitment to making education accessible to students from all economic backgrounds. Considering the 10-year median earnings of $40,144, the return on investment is strong for a public university education.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $3,969
Housing (12 mo) $13,440
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $24,609
With avg financial aid:
$7,360/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.