Henderson State University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
Although Henderson State is test-optional, ACT scores are still common here: 96% of applicants submit them. With an 81.9% acceptance rate, your goal is to use a score in or above the 18-24 range to strengthen an already accessible admissions path.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Henderson State University facts and stats
Henderson State University enrolls about 1,461 undergraduates in a small-town campus setting. Henderson State has a 62% freshman retention rate and a 37% six-year graduation rate. The student-to-faculty ratio is 14:1.
Arkadelphia, AR
How do your scores compare at Henderson State?

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Key Henderson State University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
July 15
Early Action
Not offered
Early Decision
Not offered
Priority Deadline
—
Financial Aid Priority
June 1
Test dates
August 22, 2026
Registration deadline: August 7, 2026
September 12, 2026
Registration deadline: August 28, 2026
October 3, 2026
Registration deadline: September 18, 2026
September 19, 2026
Registration deadline: August 14, 2026
October 17, 2026
Registration deadline: September 11, 2026
December 12, 2026
Registration deadline: November 6, 2026
If you choose to submit SAT or ACT scores to Henderson State, plan to take your first test by the spring of junior year. Use the summer before senior year and the fall of senior year for retakes if a stronger score or superscore could help, since the last fall retake should still arrive before the July 15 Regular Decision deadline.
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What you'll actually pay
Henderson State’s in-state tuition is $6,408, and out-of-state tuition is $8,784. About 56% of students receive aid, with an average merit award of $7,185. Submit the FAFSA by the June 1 priority deadline.

Henderson State’s out-of-state tuition is $8,784, while in-state tuition is $6,408, with room and board adding $8,562. Financial aid can significantly reduce costs, with 56% of students receiving aid and an average aid package of $9,279. The average merit award is $7,185. Students graduate with an average debt of $20,638.
Student life at Henderson State University
43% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: Priority
Fraternities and sororities are active on campus.
Similar schools
Arkansas Baptist College
Little Rock, ARAcceptance rate: 100%
Lyon College
Batesville, ARAcceptance rate: 62.8%
Arkansas State University
Jonesboro, ARAcceptance rate: 79.6%
SAT: 1010–1180
ACT: 18–24
Arkansas State University - Beebe
Beebe, ARAcceptance rate: 100%
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