Public
Accredited · Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Fort Valley, Georgia
62.8% Acceptance Rate
Fort Valley State University — Admission Snapshot 2026
A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application
62.8%Acceptance Rate
2.87Avg GPA
864Avg SAT
18Avg ACT
$20,342Annual Cost
$36,666Grad Salary
72%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
62.8%
Avg GPA
2.87
Avg SAT
864
Avg ACT
18
Selectivity
Somewhat Selective
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
SAT Middle 50%
795–920
ACT Middle 50%
16–19
Avg Net Price
$11,609
Need-Based Aid
72% receive Pell
Fort Valley State University Fort Valley State University (FVSU), founded in 1895 in Georgia, is a historically black public university and member of the University System of Georgia. As Georgia's only 1890 land-grant institution, FVSU has particular strengths in agriculture, STEM fields, and education. The 1,365-acre campus includes agricultural research facilities, modern science labs, and the state-of-the-art Health and Physical Education Complex. FVSU's Small Business Development Center provides entrepreneurial training and resources to the community. The university's athletic teams, the Wildcats, compete in NCAA Division II as members of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.
FVSU maintains a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of teaching, research, and extension services. Recent campus improvements include the new Student Amenities and Recreation Center and upgraded residence halls. The university's Cooperative Developmental Energy Program has gained national recognition for increasing diversity in STEM fields. FVSU's Agricultural Research Station supports important work in sustainable farming practices. With a focus on hands-on learning and community impact, FVSU provides valuable educational opportunities while preserving its historic role as an HBCU serving Georgia's rural communities.
Fort Valley State University Acceptance Rate
Fort Valley State University is somewhat selective in its admission process. The acceptance rate of Fort Valley State University is 62.8%. This means that 63 out of every 100 applicants get admitted.
Admissions Guidelines
- Broad Evaluation: Personal growth and vocational goals are considered alongside grades.
- Flexible Standards: Strengths in extracurriculars can often balance an average GPA.
Selectivity at a Glance
Somewhat Selective
Selectivity scale: Somewhat Selective — 62.8% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)
Recommended Academic Profile
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
2.87 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
2.67 – 2.86
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 2.42
Secondary Reach
Requires Contextual Support
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Fort Valley State University GPA Requirement
The average GPA of admitted students at Fort Valley State University is 2.87. This suggests moderate selectivity.
A mix of A's, B's, and some C's is common. Higher SAT/ACT scores can compensate for a lower GPA.
Note: This is an unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with AP or IB courses will typically have a weighted GPA of 3.07-3.27 for this same academic profile.If your GPA is between 2.57 and 2.87, aim for a strong standardized test score.
Fort Valley State University GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment: Holistic review is critical for admission.
Recommended Strategy: Requires Contextual Factors (Leadership, hardship, or talent).
Admissions at Fort Valley State University utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 2.87, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
2.87 – 4.00
Strategic Reach
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
2.67 – 2.86
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
2.47 – 2.66
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 2.46
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At Fort Valley State University, a slightly lower GPA (e.g., 3.8) in a transcript featuring multiple AP or IB courses is often prioritized over a 4.0 in a standard curriculum.
- The Upward Trend: If your early high school grades were lower, an upward trajectory in 11th and 12th grade demonstrates Academic Resilience.
Data Source: Verified via IPEDS and latest Common Data Set (CDS). Reviewed by our academic board led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.
Check Your Admission Chances at Fort Valley State University
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on Fort Valley State University's verified institutional data
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Calculating Profile...
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Your SAT Score 1200
Your Unweighted GPA 3.00
✅ Verified Data: Institutional records for 2026.
Calculated via College Portal's Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards. Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.
Fort Valley State University Test Requirements
In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2026 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.
Can I Get Into Fort Valley State University Without SAT or ACT?
Fort Valley State University requires test (SAT/ACT) scores to determine the merit for admission. It means that students will not be allowed to apply without test scores. Hence you are required to plan early and appear in upcoming SAT / ACT tests. Check the schedule of the test and plan accordingly. It is advisable to appear multiple times in the test unless you score well above the average SAT / ACT score of the admitted students, as given below. Normally, students may appear in the test multiple times to improve their scores.
Fort Valley State University Average SAT Score: 864
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Fort Valley State University is 864 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
SAT 864 — Accessible
This score makes it an easy target for SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 864 on the SAT.
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (920 SAT or 19 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Fort Valley State University allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.
If your score is below 795, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at Fort Valley State University. Retaking the test multiple times is completely normal — most competitive applicants take the SAT two or three times to achieve their best score. There is no official limit on attempts.
SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 418 | 395 | 440 |
| SAT Reading | 440 | 400 | 480 |
| SAT Composite | 864 | 795 | 920 |
It means that if you have scored less than 795 then you are below most of the admitted students at Fort Valley State University and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 920 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students.
View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 850
Can I get into Fort Valley State University with a 900 SAT?
With a 900 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Fort Valley State University are good but the admission staff at Fort Valley State University tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.
Fort Valley State University ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at Fort Valley State University is 18.
ACT Competitiveness
ACT 18 — Accessible
This score makes Fort Valley State University an easy target for ACT scores. You need to put average efforts to score 18 on the ACT.
ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 17 | 16 | 18 |
| ACT English | 17 | 15 | 19 |
| ACT Composite | 18 | 16 | 19 |
Can I get into Fort Valley State University with a 19 ACT?
A 19 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at Fort Valley State University — meaning you score higher than 75% of students who were accepted. This is a strong position, but the ACT is just one dimension of your application. Admissions officers at Fort Valley State University use the ACT as a benchmark to validate your academic readiness, not as a standalone admission ticket.
Unlike the SAT, the ACT measures four distinct subject areas — English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science — each scored on a 1–36 scale. If one of your section scores is significantly lower than the others, admissions staff will notice the imbalance. For example, a weak ACT Science score at a STEM-focused institution carries more weight than the same weakness at a liberal arts college. It is worth reviewing your section-level scores and addressing any outliers before applying.
One important advantage the ACT has over the SAT is that Fort Valley State University — like most US universities — accepts Superscoring for the ACT, meaning they take your highest section scores across multiple test attempts and combine them into a new composite. If you have taken the ACT more than once, confirm whether Fort Valley State University uses Superscoring, as this could meaningfully improve your effective composite beyond what any single sitting shows.
Beyond your score, what ultimately determines admission at this level is the strength of your overall profile. Your unweighted GPA, course rigor (AP, IB, or dual enrollment), extracurricular depth, letters of recommendation, and personal essays all carry significant weight. A 19 ACT gets your application through the first filter — but your essays and activities are what move it forward from there.
Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for Fort Valley State University
Accessible Strategy: Academic Foundation
Fort Valley State University is accessible to students who show core competency. The focus should be on proving readiness for college-level work and securing financial aid.
Consistency over Perfection
Prove you can handle a college curriculum by maintaining a steady or upward GPA trend. One or two lower grades won't be a dealbreaker if you've improved since.
Placement Validation
Use the SAT or ACT to exempt yourself from non-credit remedial courses. A solid score here saves you time and tuition money once you enroll.
Practical Leadership
Highlight work experience, family responsibilities, or community service. These schools value 'grit' and real-world maturity.
FAFSA & Deadlines
At schools with higher acceptance rates, the 'win' is financial. Submit your FAFSA and local scholarship apps as early as possible to maximize your aid package.
Next Step: Review the specific 'Pre-Professional' tracks at Fort Valley State University to ensure your high school electives align with your intended major.
Fort Valley State University Profile
Full Name
Fort Valley State University
City
Fort Valley
State
Georgia
ZIP Code
31030-4313
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
Is a Fort Valley State University Degree Worth It?
Getting into Fort Valley State University can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. Fort Valley State University offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision.
Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at Fort Valley State University is $53,400 and the graduate unemployment rate is 4.54%.
How much does a degree from Fort Valley State University Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at Fort Valley State University is $20,342. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Fort Valley State University is $11,609.
72% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 70.1 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Fort Valley State University and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Fort Valley State University, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist Fort Valley State University as your choice in the form.
How much does a Fort Valley State University Graduate earn?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $36,666. An average Fort Valley State University graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4–6 years after graduation).
The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is $40,595.
Compare Similar Colleges
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Fort Valley State University. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manor College | Jenkintown, PA | 820 | NA |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Fort Valley State University. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gallaudet University | Washington, DC | 857 | 16 |
| Virginia Union University | Richmond, VA | 860 | NA |
| Chamberlain University-Illinois | Addison, IL | 868 | 16 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Fort Valley State University. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff | Pine Bluff, AR | 916 | 16 |
| Bethune-Cookman University | Daytona Beach, FL | 913 | 17 |
| Johnson University Florida | Kissimmee, FL | 940 | NA |
| Trinity College of Florida | Trinity, FL | 905 | 19 |
| Warner University | Lake Wales, FL | 937 | 17 |
Degree Programs at Fort Valley State University
Bachelor Degree Programs
Full list of all degree programs offered by Fort Valley State University →
Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Valley State University Admissions
Graduates of this university typically earn a lower salary, $36,666 annually, especially in non-technical fields.
The tuition fee at this university is relatively low, around $20,342 per year, making it more affordable for many students.
72.0% of students at this university receive a Pell Grant — free money that does not need to be repaid. Your chances of need-based aid are strong. Submit your FAFSA as early as possible and list this institution as your choice to be considered for maximum aid.
The acceptance rate of Fort Valley State University is 62.8% which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
The average GPA of admitted students is 2.87. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
While there is no single cutoff that guarantees a rejection, admission staff uses your GPA to determine if you are a best fit. If you have at least a 2.57, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 2.57, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
If your GPA is 2.47 or less, it may make admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays. But this does not mean that you must not apply, or you do not have any chances. With additional AP courses, you can increase your chances even with this GPA.
While the average GPA of admitted students is 2.87, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Admission to Fort Valley State University is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 864 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 795–920.
Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.