Overview
Norfolk State University is a accessible public four-year institution in Norfolk, Virginia. The school accepts 89.5% of applicants and enrolls 5,495 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 89.5%
- Average SAT
- 940
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 840–1,040
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 18
- Total Enrollment
- 5,495
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Norfolk State University uses rolling admissions, so you can submit your application throughout the year rather than waiting for specific deadlines. Apply online through the NSU website with your high school transcript, SAT or ACT scores, and the application fee. The university accepts applications well into the summer for fall enrollment.
Submit your FAFSA early to maximize financial aid opportunities. Norfolk State offers generous need-based aid packages that make attendance affordable for Virginia residents and out-of-state students alike.
Nursing and engineering programs maintain higher admission standards than the university overall. Nursing requires completion of prerequisite courses and competitive grades in science classes. Engineering applicants need stronger math preparation and may face additional requirements.
Housing fills quickly despite the rolling admissions policy. Submit your housing application and deposit immediately after acceptance to secure on-campus residence halls. First-year students must live on campus unless they commute from home.
Norfolk State requires all new students to attend orientation sessions during the summer. You'll register for classes, meet with advisors, and complete enrollment steps during these mandatory sessions. Multiple dates are available, but earlier sessions offer better course selection.
The campus sits in Norfolk's Ghent district, providing urban amenities and internship opportunities. Virginia Beach lies 20 minutes away, and the Norfolk Botanical Garden borders the campus. Public transportation connects to downtown Norfolk and the Norfolk Naval Base.
Transfer students need official transcripts from all previous colleges and must meet minimum credit hour requirements. Credits transfer readily from Virginia Community College System schools through established articulation agreements.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $12,973/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $9,910
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $21,412
- Students Receiving Aid
- 62%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 32.7%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $44,666/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 72.0%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Norfolk State University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Norfolk State University has test-optional admissions, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not required but can be submitted to strengthen your application.
What is the application deadline for Norfolk State University?
Norfolk State University has rolling admissions with priority deadlines in early spring for fall enrollment. Check the admissions office for specific dates as they can change annually.
Can I transfer credits to Norfolk State University?
Norfolk State University accepts transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions. Students must have a minimum GPA and completed coursework that aligns with NSU's degree requirements.
What GPA do I need to get into Norfolk State University?
Norfolk State University does not publish a minimum GPA requirement. The school reviews applications based on overall academic performance, with most admitted students having completed college preparatory coursework.