Arkansas State University logo

Arkansas State University

Accept Rate
69.67%
Grad Rate
53.9%
Enrollment
7,994
Avg SAT
1119
Tuition
$7,754
Median Salary
$42,617
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
A-
Value
C
Admissions
C+
Diversity
B
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Arkansas State University feels like a hub of spirited community in the heart of the Delta, where the campus buzzes with a mix of academic drive and genuine Southern hospitality. You'll sense a welcoming, down-to-earth atmosphere where school pride runs deep, especially cheering on the Red Wolves.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

69.67%
Moderately Selective

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 111975th Pctl
10301180
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2375th Pctl
1925
1122436

Admissions Tips

Aim for an SAT score around 1119 or higher to be a competitive applicant, though the university values a holistic review. Highlight any leadership roles or community service in your application, as A-State appreciates engaged students, and be sure to apply for their generous merit scholarships early.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1119
40080012001600
School range: 1030โ€“1180

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

A-State is a recognized leader in programs like Health Professions and Education, offering strong, career-focused degrees. Students benefit from accessible faculty who emphasize practical teaching and opportunities for undergraduate research in fields like agriculture and engineering.

Popular Majors

Health Professions
21.1%
Business & Marketing
11.9%
Psychology
7.1%
Education
6.2%
Communications
5.6%
Social Sciences
4.2%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
3.2%
Visual & Performing Arts
3%
Agriculture
3%
Biology & Biomedical
2.5%
Engineering
1.9%
Public Administration
1%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

53.9%
Graduation Rate
77.8%
Retention Rate
7,994
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$7,754
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$13,085
After financial aid
Total Cost
$22,823
Cost of attendance/year
36.8%
Receive Pell Grants
42.3%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Jonesboro

Student life in Jonesboro is centered around campus events, with a lively downtown area offering local coffee shops, restaurants, and live music. For outdoor fun, students often explore nearby Craighead County Park or take short trips to the beautiful Mississippi River region.

Local Rent Check

$767 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Jonesboro
Explore Jonesboro

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$31,016
$0Est. 4 Years: $31,016

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($42,617):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The Jonesboro campus is generally considered safe with a dedicated university police force and well-lit areas. While the city has typical urban concerns, students often report feeling secure, especially within the campus boundaries.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ High affordability, especially for in-state students
  • โœ“ Strong, career-oriented programs in Health and Education
  • โœ“ Generous scholarship opportunities for a public university
  • โœ“ Genuine, welcoming campus community

Cons

  • โœ— Graduation rate is below the national average
  • โœ— Location in Jonesboro may feel remote compared to major metro areas
  • โœ— Retention rate could be higher, suggesting some students transfer

Notable Alumni

John Grisham
Bestselling author of legal thrillers like 'The Firm' and 'A Time to Kill'.
Ne-Yo
Grammy-winning R&B singer, songwriter, and record producer.
Paul Sorvino
Renowned actor known for his roles in 'Goodfellas' and 'The Nutty Professor.'

Frequently Asked Questions

A-State is particularly known for its standout programs in Health Professions, Business, and Education. It also has a strong reputation as a regional leader in online education and is recognized for its research in agriculture and sustainability.

No, it is not considered highly selective. With an acceptance rate of 69.67%, admission is accessible for many students. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1119, and the university uses a holistic review process.

Campus life is energetic and community-focused, with a strong emphasis on school spirit, especially during football and basketball seasons. Students can join over 200 student organizations, and the campus provides a supportive environment with a mix of on-campus housing and commuter activities.

Yes, for many students, it represents a strong value. The combination of low in-state tuition, a below-average net price, and solid post-graduation earnings ($42,617 median at 10 years) makes it a financially sound investment, particularly for Arkansas residents.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Baptist Health Medical Center St. Bernard's Healthcare Arkansas State University FNBC Bank Ritter Communications
Smart Start Score
51

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Public
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 10,321
  • In-State Tuition $7,754
  • Out-of-State $13,826
  • Zip Code 72401

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 37.9% โ™€ 62.1%

The Money Talk

With an average net price of $13,085 and affordable in-state tuition, A-State offers a solid return on investment, especially for Arkansas residents. The 10-year median earnings of $42,617 for graduates suggest the degree provides a strong financial foundation relative to the cost.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

See how this school stacks up

Compare with University of Alaska

๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $7,754
Housing (12 mo) $9,204
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $24,158
With avg financial aid:
$13,085/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.