University of North Dakota logo

University of North Dakota

Grand Forks, ND Public ยท Urban und.edu
Accept Rate
77.09%
Grad Rate
63.2%
Enrollment
9,296
Avg SAT
1200
Tuition
$10,951
Median Salary
$63,552
Overall Grade
C
B-
Academics
A-
Value
C
Admissions
C
Diversity
B
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

The University of North Dakota feels like a close-knit community where school spirit runs deep, especially during hockey season. It's a place where the cold outside brings students together inside, creating a welcoming and resilient atmosphere. You'll find a blend of Midwestern hospitality and ambitious career focus across campus.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

77.09%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

SAT data not available

Average: 1200

ACT Score Range

ACT data not available

Average: 23

Admissions Tips

Highlight any interest in aviation, engineering, or health sciences in your application, as these are signature programs with strong industry connections. Since the acceptance rate is high, focus on maintaining a solid GPA and getting involved in extracurriculars that show leadership. Applying early can also help you secure scholarships and housing in the tight-knit campus community.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1200
40080012001600

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

Academics & Majors

UND is a national leader in aerospace, offering a renowned John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences with extensive flight training opportunities. The university also excels in health professions and engineering, providing students with hands-on research and clinical experience. Professors are known for being accessible and focused on practical, career-ready skills.

Popular Majors

Health Professions
16.1%
Transportation
14.5%
Business & Marketing
12.9%
Engineering
8%
Psychology
6.3%
Communications
6.1%
Education
4.4%
Foreign Languages
4.2%
Criminal Justice
4%
Biology & Biomedical
3.8%
Public Administration
3.5%
Social Sciences
3.1%

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

By The Numbers

63.2%
Graduation Rate
83%
Retention Rate
9,296
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
$10,951
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$18,998
After financial aid
Total Cost
$24,580
Cost of attendance/year
16.5%
Receive Pell Grants
42.5%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Grand Forks

Life in Grand Forks revolves around campus, with students bonding over hockey games at the Ralph Engelstad Arena and tailgating in the fall. When not studying, students enjoy the Greenway along the Red River for biking and walking, as well as local coffee shops and downtown eateries. Winters are long, so indoor activities like campus events and local rec centers are popular.

Local Rent Check

$736 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Grand Forks
Explore Grand Forks

Reality Check

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

$43,804
$0Est. 4 Years: $43,804

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($63,552):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

The campus is generally considered safe with a dedicated university police force and well-lit pathways. Grand Forks is a quiet, low-crime city, though students should always be mindful of safety, especially during the harsh winter months.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Renowned aerospace program with direct paths to aviation careers
  • โœ“ Affordable out-of-state tuition compared to many public universities
  • โœ“ Strong alumni network in the Upper Midwest and in aviation industries
  • โœ“ Vibrant D1 athletics scene, especially the powerhouse hockey team

Cons

  • โœ— Harsh, long winters with extreme cold and snow can be challenging
  • โœ— Remote location in Grand Forks limits off-campus entertainment options
  • โœ— Smaller city feel may not appeal to students seeking a bustling urban environment

Notable Alumni

Phil Jackson
Hall of Fame NBA coach who won 11 championships, played basketball at UND
Johnny Lang
Grammy-nominated blues rock guitarist and singer
Casey Saunders
Former professional football player and entrepreneur

Frequently Asked Questions

UND is nationally recognized for its John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, which is one of the largest and most respected aviation programs in the country. It is also a leader in health professions, particularly nursing and medicine, and has strong programs in engineering and psychology. The university is also known for its fierce rivalry with North Dakota State University (NDSU) and its dominant D1 hockey program.

No, the University of North Dakota has a relatively high acceptance rate of 77.09%, making it an accessible option for many students. While not highly selective, admissions committees still look for a solid high school GPA and a well-rounded application. Meeting the average statistics of admitted students will give you a strong chance of acceptance.

Campus life at UND is defined by a strong sense of community and school spirit, centered around its NCAA D1 athletics, particularly hockey. The campus is compact and walkable, fostering a close-knit environment where students easily connect. With over 200 student organizations, there are plenty of ways to get involved, though the social scene is heavily influenced by the school and the Midwest climate.

Yes, for many students, UND represents a solid financial investment. With an average net price of $18,998 and strong 10-year median earnings of $63,552, the ROI is competitive for a public university. The value is particularly high for out-of-state students in the Midwest due to tuition reciprocity and for those entering high-demand fields like aviation and healthcare.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Sanford Health Altru Health System Northern Pacific Railroad US Bank UND Aerospace Foundation
Smart Start Score
67

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

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Public
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 12,821
  • In-State Tuition $10,951
  • Out-of-State $15,570
  • Zip Code 58202

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 54.7% โ™€ 45.3%

The Money Talk

With an out-of-state tuition of $15,570, UND offers a high-value education, especially for students from neighboring states through tuition reciprocity programs. The 10-year median earnings of $63,552 suggest a strong return on investment, outpacing the average net price. The relatively low Pell Grant rate indicates a student body that isn't heavily reliant on federal aid, but the overall cost remains accessible for a public university.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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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 $10,951
Housing (12 mo) $8,832
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $26,983
With avg financial aid:
$18,998/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.