Bowie State University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
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
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.
Bowie, MD
How do your scores compare at Bowie State?

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Key Bowie State University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
August 1
Early Action
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Early Decision
December 1
Priority Deadline
February 15
Financial Aid Priority
March 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 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.

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
26% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: Priority
Fraternities and sororities are active on campus.
Similar schools
Allegany College of Maryland
Cumberland, MDAcceptance rate: 100%
SAT: 1114–1372
ACT: 23–30
Anne Arundel Community College
Arnold, MDAcceptance rate: 100%
ACT: 18–25
Capitol Technology University
Laurel, MDAcceptance rate: 11%
Carroll Community College
Westminster, MDAcceptance rate: 90.2%
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