Austin Peay State University logo

Austin Peay State University

Accept Rate
95.95%
Grad Rate
43.9%
Enrollment
7,365
Avg SAT
1050
Tuition
$8,675
Median Salary
$44,301
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
A-
Value
C
Admissions
A-
Diversity
B
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Austin Peay State University offers a tight-knit community feel where students are known by name, not just a student ID. The campus combines historic red-brick buildings with modern facilities, creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere. There's a strong sense of school spirit and resilience, embodied by the 'Let's Go Peay!' chant.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

95.95%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 105075th Pctl
9431165
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2175th Pctl
1823
1122436

Admissions Tips

With a high acceptance rate, Austin Peay is accessible, but you should still highlight your involvement in extracurriculars or work experience in your application. If your GPA is on the lower side, a strong personal statement explaining your growth can make a difference. Be sure to apply early for scholarships, as need-based aid covers nearly half the student body.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1050
40080012001600
School range: 943โ€“1165

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

Academics & Majors

The university excels in practical, career-focused majors like Health Professions, Business, and Parks & Recreation, offering strong hands-on learning. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from dedicated faculty who are focused on student success. Research opportunities are accessible, particularly through undergraduate projects and partnerships with local industries.

Popular Majors

Business & Marketing
8%
Health Professions
7.5%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
5.5%
Psychology
4.4%
Criminal Justice
3.3%
Education
3.2%
Computer Science
2.9%
Visual & Performing Arts
2.7%
Communications
1.8%
Public Administration
1.7%
Social Sciences
1.6%
Agriculture
1.5%

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

By The Numbers

43.9%
Graduation Rate
66.8%
Retention Rate
7,365
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
$8,675
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$14,846
After financial aid
Total Cost
$26,790
Cost of attendance/year
45.6%
Receive Pell Grants
35.7%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Clarksville

Clarksville is a growing city with a vibrant downtown featuring local breweries, coffee shops, and the historic Roxy Theatre. Outdoor enthusiasts love being near the Cumberland River and the scenic Dunbar Cave State Park. Nashville's famous music and nightlife scene is also just a short drive away for weekend trips.

Local Rent Check

$970 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Clarksville
Explore Clarksville

Reality Check

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

$34,700
$0Est. 4 Years: $34,700

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($44,301):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus has its own dedicated police force and utilizes a comprehensive emergency alert system to keep students informed. While Clarksville is generally safe, students are advised to practice standard urban safety precautions, especially at night.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Highly affordable tuition, especially for in-state students
  • โœ“ Strong support systems and accessible faculty due to small class sizes
  • โœ“ Growing campus with recent investments in facilities and technology
  • โœ“ Prime location near Nashville with a self-contained city life in Clarksville

Cons

  • โœ— Low graduation and retention rates indicate student persistence can be a challenge
  • โœ— Limited national brand recognition may require more networking effort
  • โœ— Campus social scene can be quieter compared to larger universities

Notable Alumni

Terry Coburn
Former NFL player and successful businessman.
Tommie Smith
Olympic gold medalist and civil rights icon (attended).
Tony Rose
Former NFL player and successful high school coach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Austin Peay, or 'The Peay,' is known for its strong programs in Health Professions, Business, and Parks & Recreation. It is also recognized for its commitment to serving military students due to its proximity to Fort Campbell. The university prides itself on providing a supportive, accessible education with a tight-knit community feel.

No, it is not considered a selective school. With an acceptance rate of 95.95%, admissions are open to the vast majority of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students typically have an SAT score between 990 and 1110, but the university uses a holistic review process.

Campus life is community-oriented with a mix of commuter and residential students. There are over 150 student organizations, NCAA Division I athletics, and a popular campus recreation center. Clarksville provides a mix of outdoor activities and city amenities, offering a balanced college experience.

Yes, for many students, particularly Tennessee residents. The low in-state tuition and high accessibility make it a financially smart choice. While the graduation rate is a concern, the low debt levels and median earnings suggest a positive financial outcome for graduates who complete their degrees.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Fort Campbell Vanderbilt University Medical Center Clarksville-Montgomery County School System Amaroq Tactical TriStar Health
Smart Start Score
48

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

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Public
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 9,723
  • In-State Tuition $8,675
  • Out-of-State $14,219
  • Zip Code 37044

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 41.1% โ™€ 58.9%

The Money Talk

With an average net price of under $15,000 and affordable in-state tuition, the university offers a solid return on investment for Tennessee residents. The 10-year median earnings of $44,301 are competitive for a regional public university, especially given the low debt burden. For out-of-state students, the value is still strong compared to many private institutions.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

See how this school stacks up

Compare with Marshall University

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 $8,675
Housing (12 mo) $11,640
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $27,515
With avg financial aid:
$14,846/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.