Winona State University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
Winona State’s 75.5% acceptance rate means your strategy should be about fit and positioning, not just clearing an admissions bar. Because it is test-optional, submit scores when they help: an SAT near the top of the 970 to 1230 range is a useful target. Merit scholarships listed here are GPA-based, so keep your transcript strong.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Winona State University facts and stats
Winona State University enrolls 5,317 undergraduates in a small-town campus setting. Winona State has a 79% freshman retention rate, above the national average of roughly 70%, and a 56% six-year graduation rate. The student-to-faculty ratio is 14:1.
Winona, MN
How do your scores compare at Winona State?

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Key Winona State University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
Not offered
Early Action
Not offered
Early Decision
Not offered
Priority Deadline
—
Financial Aid Priority
May 15
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 Winona State is test-optional, use this timeline only if you plan to submit SAT or ACT scores. Take your first SAT or ACT by spring of junior year, then use the summer before senior year and fall of senior year for retakes. Since no ED, EA, or Regular Decision deadline is listed, aim to have any retake scores ready before you submit your application.
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What you'll actually pay
Winona State’s in-state tuition is $8,388, while out-of-state tuition is $15,120. About 46% of students receive aid, with an average merit award of $2,869. Submit the FAFSA by the May 15 priority deadline to be considered for financial aid.

For out-of-state students, Winona State University lists tuition at $15,120, while Minnesota students pay $8,388; room and board adds about $10,220. Aid reaches 46% of students, with an average package of $9,390, which can meaningfully reduce the billed cost for eligible students. Merit awards average $2,869. Graduates leave with an average debt of $32,110.
Student life at Winona State University
29% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: Guaranteed
Fraternities and sororities are active on campus.
Similar schools
Alexandria Technical & Community College
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Coon Rapids, MNAugsburg University
Minneapolis, MNAcceptance rate: 82%
Riverland Community College
Austin, MNAcceptance rate: 76.5%
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