Norfolk State University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
With an 87.8% acceptance rate, Norfolk State is accessible for many students, but the 39% six-year graduation rate makes preparation the bigger question. Since scores are optional, submit them only if they help you; aiming near 1040 SAT or 22 ACT puts you at the top of the current middle range.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Norfolk State University facts and stats
Norfolk State University enrolls 5,411 undergraduates in an urban campus setting. Norfolk State has a 73% freshman retention rate, slightly above the national average of roughly 70%, and a 39% six-year graduation rate. The student-to-faculty ratio is 15:1.
Norfolk, VA
How do your scores compare at Norfolk State?

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Key Norfolk State University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
May 31
Early Action
Not offered
Early Decision
Not offered
Priority Deadline
—
Financial Aid Priority
March 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
If you choose to submit scores to Norfolk State, plan to take your first SAT or ACT by the spring of junior year and save the summer before senior year and the fall of senior year for retakes. Since the Regular Decision deadline is May 31, a December retake should still arrive in time and can give you another superscoring opportunity.
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What you'll actually pay
Norfolk State is a public university in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, with in-state tuition of $6,076 and out-of-state tuition of $17,578. To be considered for financial aid on time, submit the FAFSA by the March 15 priority deadline.

Norfolk State’s out-of-state tuition is $17,578, while in-state tuition is $6,076. Room and board adds $11,626, so the billed cost can differ substantially depending on a student’s tuition category and housing plans. Financial aid can lower the amount families actually pay, with need-based grants, scholarships, and loans shaping the final net price.
Student life at Norfolk State University
Student activities and organization details coming soon.
38% of undergrads live on campus
No fraternity or sorority life on campus.
Similar schools
Averett University
Danville, VAAcceptance rate: 56.6%
SAT: 850–1170
ACT: 15–28
Bluefield University
Bluefield, VAAcceptance rate: 59.3%
Blue Ridge Community College, Virginia
Weyers Cave, VAAcceptance rate: 47.8%
Bridgewater College
Bridgewater, VAAcceptance rate: 91.7%
SAT: 1010–1390
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