Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
The Vibe Check
Attending LSU feels like being part of a massive, spirited family where game day energy is a way of life. The campus buzzes with Southern hospitality, school pride, and a palpable sense of tradition that makes the large enrollment feel like a tight-knit community. You'll experience a unique blend of rigorous academics and vibrant social life under the Louisiana sun.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
Estimate your admission chances
⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
LSU is a powerhouse for research and innovation, particularly in engineering, agriculture, and coastal environmental science. The faculty are known for being accessible and invested in undergraduate success, offering hands-on research opportunities through programs like the LSU Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP). With top-rated programs in Business, Engineering, and Mass Communications, students receive a robust education backed by a Carnegie R1 research designation.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Baton Rouge
Life in Baton Rouge revolves around the vibrant downtown scene, local Cajun and Creole cuisine, and the bustling nightlife on Third Street and the North Gates near campus. Students enjoy tailgating at Tiger Stadium, exploring the scenic Mississippi River levees, and attending live music events at venues like the Varsity Theatre. The city offers a rich cultural mix with festivals, museums, and a strong sense of local community.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).
Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($61,251):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
LSU has a dedicated University Police Department and an extensive network of emergency blue light phones and safe ride shuttle services across campus. While the campus itself is well-patrolled, students are advised to practice urban safety awareness, especially in the surrounding areas of Baton Rouge, and utilize campus resources for safe transportation at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Unmatched school spirit and football culture that creates a lively campus atmosphere.
- ✓ Strong academic programs in Engineering, Business, and Agriculture with high research activity.
- ✓ Affordable in-state tuition combined with generous merit scholarships for eligible students.
Cons
- ✗ Large class sizes in introductory courses can make personalized attention difficult.
- ✗ The urban setting of Baton Rouge requires students to be proactive about personal safety and transportation.
- ✗ Summers in Louisiana are extremely hot and humid, which can be an adjustment for out-of-state students.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
LSU is widely known for its passionate fan base and dominant football program, but academically, it is renowned for its research in coastal and environmental science, engineering, and agriculture. The university holds the prestigious R1 Carnegie Classification, indicating the highest level of research activity. Additionally, it is famous for its strong ties to the oil and gas industry and its vibrant arts scene, particularly the School of Music and the LSU Museum of Art.
LSU has an acceptance rate of 74%, making it generally accessible but increasingly selective. The middle 50% SAT range for admitted students is typically between 1160 and 1340, with an average of 1248. While admission is not considered highly competitive for the university as a whole, specific programs like Mechanical Engineering, Business, and Mass Communication have higher academic standards and more limited spots.
Campus life at LSU is defined by high-energy school spirit, particularly during football season when campus transforms into a sea of purple and gold. With over 600 student organizations and a traditional residential campus experience, students have ample opportunities to get involved. The social scene is lively, with a mix of tailgating, Greek life involvement, and exploring the local Baton Rouge food and music culture.
For in-state students, LSU is an excellent financial investment, offering a high-quality education at a public university price point with strong post-graduation earnings. The 10-year median earnings of $61,251 surpass the national average for public university graduates, justifying the cost of attendance. For out-of-state students, the value depends on the major and available financial aid, but the ROI remains competitive due to the university's strong regional reputation and alumni network.
Similar Universities
Top Employers
Next Steps & Tools
Make the best decision with our free planning tools.
Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 33,626
- In-State Tuition $11,954
- Out-of-State $28,631
- Zip Code 70803
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $20,015 and relatively low in-state tuition, LSU offers an exceptional return on investment for Louisiana residents. The 10-year median earnings of $61,251 significantly outpace the average cost of attendance, making the degree a financially sound investment. Out-of-state students pay a premium, but the strong alumni network and high graduate earnings still make it a competitive value compared to private institutions.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.