Jackson State University logo

Jackson State University

Jackson, MS Public ยท Urban www.jsums.edu
Accept Rate
91.03%
Grad Rate
33.7%
Enrollment
4,769
Avg SAT
974
Tuition
$9,090
Median Salary
$39,060
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
B
Value
C
Admissions
C
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Jackson State University is a vibrant HBCU in the heart of Jackson, Mississippi, known for its strong sense of community. The campus blends urban energy with a supportive, family-oriented atmosphere, fostering a dynamic student experience.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

91.03%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 97475th Pctl
8501080
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 1875th Pctl
1520
1122436

Admissions Tips

JSU operates with a high acceptance rate, making it an accessible option, but applicants should still aim to meet the average SAT score of 974. For the best scholarship opportunities, ensure you apply by the priority deadline and highlight your involvement in extracurricular activities. A strong personal statement can also help you stand out for the Honors College or specific departmental scholarships.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
974
40080012001600
School range: 850โ€“1080

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

Academics & Majors

As a public research university, JSU is recognized for its strong programs in business, engineering, and education, particularly through the College of Science, Engineering, and Technology. The university also offers a robust Honors College and unique opportunities in urban research due to its location in the state capital.

Popular Majors

Education
13.4%
Business & Marketing
12.4%
Biology & Biomedical
11.8%
Multidisciplinary Studies
9.5%
Health Professions
7.6%
Public Administration
7.4%
Criminal Justice
6.6%
Engineering
6%
Communications
5%
Psychology
4.2%
Computer Science
3.1%
Physical Sciences
3%

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

By The Numbers

33.7%
Graduation Rate
68.5%
Retention Rate
4,769
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
$9,090
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$20,191
After financial aid
Total Cost
$28,611
Cost of attendance/year
68.4%
Receive Pell Grants
78%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Jackson

Located in the capital city, students have access to cultural attractions like the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum and the Jackson Zoo. The city offers a vibrant music scene and local dining, though students are encouraged to explore with awareness of their surroundings.

Local Rent Check

$997 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Jackson
Explore Jackson

Reality Check

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

$36,360
$0Est. 4 Years: $36,360

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($39,060):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

Campus safety is a top priority at JSU with 24/7 police patrols and a well-lit campus environment. The university also utilizes a campus-wide alert system to keep students informed about safety updates.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Affordable tuition rates, especially for in-state students.
  • โœ“ Strong, close-knit alumni network and school spirit.
  • โœ“ Designated as a Carnegie Research University with growing research opportunities.
  • โœ“ Prime location in the state capital for internships and civic engagement.

Cons

  • โœ— Lower than average graduation rate (33.7%).
  • โœ— Urban location requires students to be vigilant about safety off-campus.
  • โœ— Limited on-campus housing options compared to larger universities.

Notable Alumni

Jerry Rice
Pro Football Hall of Famer and NFL's all-time leading receiver.
Lemar
Grammy-nominated R&B singer and songwriter known for hits like 'Final Tear'.
James Bevel
Civil Rights leader and strategist for the Birmingham Campaign and Selma to Montgomery marches.

Frequently Asked Questions

The student-to-faculty ratio is approximately 20:1, allowing for personalized attention in many classes.

Yes, JSU offers a variety of merit-based scholarships. The priority deadline for scholarship consideration is typically December 1st.

JSU offers on-campus housing in residence halls like Tiger Village. However, space is limited, so early application is recommended.

Yes, JSU competes in the NCAA Division I Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), with a strong tradition in football and basketball.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Trustmark National Bank University of Mississippi Medical Center Mississippi State Government Nissan North America Jackson Public Schools
Smart Start Score
41

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

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Public
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 5,351
  • In-State Tuition $9,090
  • Out-of-State $10,110
  • Zip Code 39217

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 36.4% โ™€ 63.6%

The Money Talk

With an annual tuition of $9,090, JSU offers a highly affordable education for in-state students. The average post-graduation earnings of $39,060 provide a solid return on investment for the cost of attendance.

*Based on Dept of Education data

โš–๏ธ Compare Schools

See how this school stacks up

Compare with Purdue University Fort

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 $9,090
Housing (12 mo) $11,964
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $28,254
With avg financial aid:
$20,191/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.