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76.4%Acceptance
$12,240Tuition
6,004Students
54%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$51,955Earnings
#16 in MichiganPublic4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalNCAA Division IIStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

Overview

Saginaw Valley State University is a less selective public four-year institution in University Center, Michigan. The school accepts 76.4% of applicants and enrolls 6,004 students.

Admission Statistics

Acceptance Rate
76.4%
Average SAT
1,075
SAT Range (25th–75th)
970–1,180
ACT Composite (avg)
23
Total Enrollment
6,004

Your Chances by SAT Score

Strong Candidate
SAT above 1,180

Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.

Competitive
SAT 970–1,180

Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.

Reach School
SAT below 970

Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.

Admission Guide

Saginaw Valley State University uses a rolling admissions process, which means you can apply throughout the year and receive decisions relatively quickly after submitting your application. Submit your application through the Common Application or SVSU's online portal along with official high school transcripts and test scores if you choose to include them, as the university has adopted a test-optional policy.

While SVSU admits most applicants, the nursing program requires separate application and has limited spots due to clinical placement constraints. Engineering programs, particularly electrical and mechanical engineering, maintain higher admission standards and require strong math and science preparation. Computer science and related programs also review applications more selectively given their strong job placement outcomes.

Housing applications open in October for the following fall semester, and you should apply early since residence halls fill quickly. The university requires all first-year students under 20 who live more than 30 miles from campus to live on campus unless they live with family. Orientation occurs during summer months with multiple session dates available.

The campus sits between Saginaw and Bay City, providing internship and job opportunities in healthcare, manufacturing, and technology sectors throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region. The university operates on a semester system and offers extensive online and hybrid course options. Financial aid processing moves efficiently, but submit your FAFSA early to maximize aid opportunities. Most students receive some form of financial assistance, making the university particularly affordable for Michigan residents.

What It Costs If You Get In

Average Net Price
$14,582/yr
Tuition (in-state)
$12,240
Tuition (out-of-state)
$28,752
Students Receiving Aid
32%

View full cost breakdown →

After You Graduate

Graduation Rate (6-year)
53.8%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$51,955/yr
Freshman Retention Rate
75.4%

View full outcomes data →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Saginaw Valley State University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?

Saginaw Valley State University has adopted a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.

What is the application deadline for Saginaw Valley State University?

Saginaw Valley State University operates on a rolling admissions basis with no specific deadline. Applications are reviewed as they are received until classes are full.

How many transfer credits does Saginaw Valley State University accept?

Saginaw Valley State University accepts up to 90 transfer credits from accredited institutions. Students must complete at least 30 credit hours at SVSU to earn a degree.

Does Saginaw Valley State University offer early admission programs?

Saginaw Valley State University does not offer early decision or early action programs. The university uses rolling admissions throughout the academic year.