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Bowie State University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements

SAT Range790 to 970
ACT RangeN/A
Average GPA3.16
Acceptance Rate75%

Bowie State is test-optional, and very few admitted students submit scores, so your testing decision should be strategic. With a 75% acceptance rate, focus on keeping your GPA solid and submitting an SAT only if it strengthens your file. If you do send scores, aim near or above 970.

Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.

Bowie State University facts and stats

Quick Facts

Bowie State University enrolls about 5,136 undergraduates in a small-town campus setting. Bowie State has a freshman retention rate of 68%. The student-to-faculty ratio is 15:1.

Location

Bowie, MD

Undergrad Enrollment5,136
Freshman Retention68%
SettingSmall town
Student to Faculty Ratio15:1
Graduation RateN/A
Test PolicyTest-optional

How do your scores compare at Bowie State?

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Key Bowie State University application dates

Key dates

Application deadlines

Regular Decision

August 1

Early Action

Early Decision

December 1

Priority Deadline

February 15

Financial aid deadlines

Financial Aid Priority

March 1

Test dates

SAT 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

ACT test dates

September 19, 2026

Registration deadline: August 14, 2026

October 17, 2026

Registration deadline: September 11, 2026

December 12, 2026

Registration deadline: November 6, 2026

Take tests early for the best outcomes

If you choose to submit scores to test-optional Bowie State, plan to take your first SAT or ACT by the spring of junior year, then use the summer before senior year and the fall for retakes. For the December 1 Early Decision deadline, the November SAT or October ACT is likely the last retake that can arrive in time.

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What you'll actually pay

Bowie State is a public university with in-state tuition of $6,113 and out-of-state tuition of $16,833. About 57% of students receive aid, and the FAFSA priority deadline is March 1.

House illustration
In-State Tuition$6,113
Out-of-State Tuition$16,833
Room and Board$13,656
Average Merit AwardN/A
Application Fee$40
Students on Aid57%
Average Aid Package$11,274
Average Debt at Grad$19,528

At Bowie State University, out-of-state tuition is $16,833, while in-state tuition is $6,113. Room and board adds about $13,656, so total costs can vary significantly by residency and housing choices. About 57% of students receive financial aid, with an average aid package of $11,274. Graduates leave with an average debt of $19,528.

Student life at Bowie State University

Activities and Organizations
Student newspaper
Drama and theater
Marching band
Choral groups
Concert band
Jazz band
Pep band
Symphony orchestra
Dance
Musical theater
Music ensembles
Yearbook
Student government
International student organization
Housing

26% of undergrads live on campus

Freshman housing: Priority

Coed
Men only
Women only
Living-learning
Greek life

Fraternities and sororities are active on campus.

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