McNeese State University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
McNeese admits many applicants, but it is not a score-blind process: ACT scores are a standard part of the file, with 86% of students submitting them. Aim for a 23+ ACT to be above the middle range; if you take the SAT, an 1180+ plays a similar role.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
McNeese State University facts and stats
McNeese State University enrolls about 5,668 undergraduates in an urban campus setting. McNeese has a 68% freshman retention rate and a 46% 6-year graduation rate. The student-to-faculty ratio is 20:1. McNeese is test-required for admissions.
Lake Charles, LA
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Key McNeese State University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
August 1
Early Action
Not offered
Early Decision
Not offered
Priority Deadline
—
Financial Aid Priority
May 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
Because McNeese requires SAT or ACT scores, plan to take your first test by the spring of junior year. Use the summer before senior year and senior fall for retakes, with the December test date as the last practical option that should still get scores to McNeese before its August 1 Regular Decision deadline.
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What you'll actually pay
McNeese is a public university in the Southland Conference, with in-state tuition of $8,842 and out-of-state tuition of $9,842. About 47% of students receive aid, and the FAFSA priority deadline is May 1.
For out-of-state students, tuition at McNeese State University is $9,842, compared with $8,842 for in-state students. Room and board add $11,802, so living on campus can make the total bill much higher than tuition alone. About 47% of students receive financial aid, with an average aid package of $9,856, which can reduce what families pay out of pocket.
Student life at McNeese State University
Fraternities and sororities are active on campus.
Similar schools
Bossier Parish Community College
Bossier City, LAAcceptance rate: 100%
Centenary College of Louisiana
Shreveport, LAAcceptance rate: 55.7%
SAT: 1053–1185
ACT: 20–25
Fortis College, Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge, LAAcceptance rate: 100%
Delgado Community College
New Orleans, LAAcceptance rate: 54.4%
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