University of Nebraska at Kearney SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
The key number at Nebraska Kearney is not just the 89.5% acceptance rate, but the 58% six-year graduation rate, which makes preparation matter after you get in. Since 88% of applicants submit ACT scores, aim toward the top of the 18 to 25 range if you test. For aid, the listed major scholarships hinge on a 3.70+ GPA.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
University of Nebraska at Kearney facts and stats
University of Nebraska at Kearney enrolls about 4,214 undergraduates in a small-town campus setting. Nebraska Kearney has an 80% freshman retention rate, which is above the national average of roughly 70%. Its 6-year graduation rate is 58%, and the student-to-faculty ratio is 14:1.
Kearney, NE
How do your scores compare at Nebraska Kearney?

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Key University of Nebraska at Kearney application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
Offered
Early Action
Not offered
Early Decision
Not offered
Priority Deadline
—
Financial Aid Priority
April 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 Nebraska Kearney is test-optional, use this timeline only if you choose to submit SAT or ACT scores. Take your first test by spring of junior year, then use the summer before senior year and fall for superscore-focused retakes, with your last retake scheduled early enough for scores to arrive by the Regular Decision deadline.
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What you'll actually pay
Nebraska Kearney lists in-state tuition at $6,690 and out-of-state tuition at $14,610. About 64% of students receive aid, with average merit awards of $8,301; the FAFSA priority deadline is April 1.

Nebraska Kearney’s out-of-state tuition is $14,610, compared with $6,690 for in-state tuition, and room and board is $11,910. About 64% of students receive aid, with an average aid package of $15,908. Merit awards average $8,301, which can meaningfully reduce costs for qualifying students. Graduates leave with an average debt of $19,929.
Student life at University of Nebraska at Kearney
38% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: Guaranteed
Fraternities and sororities are active on campus. 13% of men join fraternities, and 11% of women join sororities.
Similar schools
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Omaha, NEAcceptance rate: 78.2%
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College of Saint Mary
Omaha, NEReady to fit University of Nebraska at Kearney's core benchmarks?
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