Alcorn State University is one of the renowned universities in the USA. It is very competitive to get admission to. The acceptance rate of Alcorn State University is 29.93%. This means that only 30 out of every 100 applicants are admitted.
How Competitive are Alcorn State University Admissions?
- Highly Competitive: Applicants need strong academics and extracurriculars.
- GPA, SAT/ACT, and AP/IB courses significantly impact admission chances.
- A holistic review considers essays, recommendations, and leadership roles.
With one of the lowest acceptance rates in the US, you need to be excellent in every area to get selected. However, since the acceptance rate is not below 10%, you still have a chance if your GPA is not perfect. You can make up for a GPA deficiency by scoring high on the SAT, and ACT, and taking IB or AP courses. Meeting Alcorn State University\'s GPA and standardized test (SAT/ACT) requirements is crucial, as failing to do so may prevent your application from moving forward. These requirements act as automatic filters, so meeting them is vital; failing to do so makes your chance of getting in nearly zero.
Additionally, a well-written letter of recommendation, your participation in co-curricular and extracurricular activities, and your interpersonal communication skills can enhance your admission chances.
Alcorn State University Admission Requirements
Alcorn State University GPA Requirement
The average GPA of admitted students at Alcorn State University is 3.2. Admission is competitive, but not extremely selective.
A mix of A’s and B’s is acceptable, and taking AP/IB courses helps.
If your GPA is between 2.9 and 3.2, you should aim for a high SAT or ACT score. A minimum GPA of 2.8 is required.
Can I Get Into Alcorn State University Without SAT Or ACT?: Alcorn 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 4 to 5 times to improve their 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.
Alcorn State University SAT Requirements
Each school has different requirements for SAT and ACT testing. Only a few schools require the SAT or ACT, but many consider your scores if you choose to submit them. The test score policy is already mentioned.
Alcorn State University Average SAT Score: 1019
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Alcorn State University is 1019 on the 1600 SAT scale.
Alcorn State University SAT Competitiveness
This score makes it an easy target or SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 1019 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (1115 SAT or 24 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Alcorn 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 903, you must retake the SAT to improve your chances of admission to Alcorn State University. It is not strange to appear multiple times for the SAT to improve scores. Colleges don’t mind if you have appeared multiple times, but not more than 5 times.
Alcorn State University SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 500 | 450 | 550 |
| SAT Reading | 509 | 453 | 565 |
| SAT Composite | 1019 | 903 | 1115 |
It means that if you have scored less than 903 then you are below most of the admitted students at Alcorn State University and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1115 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 1000
Can I get into Alcorn State University with a 1100 SAT?
With a 1100 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Alcorn State University are good but the admission staff at Alcorn 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.
Alcorn State University ACT Requirements
The average ACT Score at Alcorn State University is 20.
Alcorn State University ACT Competitiveness
This score makes Alcorn State University less competitive for ACT scores. You need to put average efforts to score 20 on the ACT.
Alcorn State University ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ACT Math | 19 | 14 | 23 |
| ACT English | 20 | 13 | 26 |
| ACT Composite | 20 | 15 | 24 |
Can I get into Alcorn State University with a 24 ACT?
With a 24 ACT Score, your chances of admission at Alcorn State University are good but the admission staff does not check your ACT Score only. The College Admission process tests your all-around personality and 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.
SAT Vs ACT: Which score to send
You can compare your scores in SAT and ACT to the average SAT and ACT Scores of the admitted students at Alcorn State University. More importantly, comparing your scores with the 25th and 75th percentiles of SAT and ACT scores will give you a better understanding of where you stand. If your score on the SAT is near the 75th percentile SAT score, then you must send your SAT score. If your ACT score is near the 75th percentile, then you must send your ACT Score.
But there is more, if both of your scores are in the same range, then it is better to send an ACT Score, as in the case of ACT, you can control which score to send as opposed to SAT.
Here is how: When sending the ACT Score, you can decide which score you want to send to the colleges. You could take 8 ACT tests, and only send your highest one. This is not the case with the SAT, where your score report mentions all of your attempts.
View a list of all colleges with an average ACT score of 20.Alcorn State University Profile
Name: Alcorn State University
City: Alcorn State
URL: www.alcorn.edu/
State: Mississippi
Type: Public
Zip: 39096-7500
Campus: Main
Accredited by: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting into Alcorn State University
Boost Your Test Scores: Retake the SAT/ACT if needed. Use resources to improve your score.
Focus on Academics: Maintain a high GPA and take challenging courses.
Extracurricular Activities: Alcorn State University values well-rounded students who make meaningful contributions to their communities. Here’s how to showcase your strengths:
- Highlight long-term commitments, and unique accomplishments.
- Leaderships: Demonstrate clear leadership experience. This is not only true for Alcorn State University but also other schools. If you cannot demonstrate strong leadership qualities, your chances of acceptance will be low. Work on your weak areas, and improve your communication and interpersonal skills. Also, include your work experiences where you were given leadership responsibilities, and write down your achievements and how you were able to contribute as a team leader and team member.
- Community Service: Show how you have influenced change in the community and have a strong desire to do so in the future. Also, if you are planning to apply for Alcorn State University, participate in relevant activities. Work for social welfare and look for opportunities where you can make an impact. Start with your school or student council. Those having positions like president, secretary generals etc… in students councils have better chances. Network with notable people and develop your social media profile accordingly.
- Passion Projects: Whether it’s starting a club, publishing research, or excelling in the arts, show what sets you apart. Example: If you’ve founded a nonprofit or won a national competition, make sure it’s prominently featured in your application.
- Align your goals with Alcorn State University’s mission. Carefully read the objectives and mission of Alcorn State University on their official website and plan accordingly for each specific point. See how well your profile matches their objectives and goals, and work on the areas where you are lacking.
- Secure Strong Recommendations: Get letters from professors or employers who know your abilities well. Share your achievements and goals with them for a stronger, more personalized recommendation. If personal statement and recommendations align, your chances of success will be higher.
- Build a Strong Network: Engage with Alcorn State University Alumni and current students. Ask them how they planned their scholarship journey, what challenges they faced, and how they overcame them. Learn about the key factors behind their success and how they secured their selection.
- Craft Strong Essays: Tell your story authentically and highlight what makes you unique. College Essay is a very important document. Unlike your transcripts, which just show your numbers or grades, the essay reflects your true personality as a human being. Take considerable time to refine and craft your statement of purpose. Here are the detailed guidelines for writing a winning College Essay form our experts.
Does a degree from Alcorn State University Worth It?
Getting into Alcorn 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. Alcorn 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 Alcorn State University is USD: 38329.94 and unemployment rate is 5.47%.
How much does a degree from Alcorn State University Cost?The average annual cost of the degree at Alcorn State University is USD: 24062. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Alcorn State University is USD: 14657
How can I get a scholarship?
71.72% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 69.85 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Alcorn State University and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Alcorn 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 Alcorn State University as your choice in the form.
How much a Alcorn State University Graduate make?
The average annual salary of the Alcorn State University graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is USD 36421. An average Alcorn 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 USD: 40595
Less Competitive Schools
These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Alcorn State University. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower than the requirements of Alcorn State University, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trinity Baptist College | Trinity Baptist College, FL | 987 | 19 |
| Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College | Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College, GA | 986 | 19 |
| Point University | Point University, GA | 990 | 18 |
| Clark Atlanta University | Clark Atlanta University, GA | 974 | 18 |
| College of Coastal Georgia | College of Coastal Georgia, GA | 997 | 19 |
| Clayton State University | Clayton State University, GA | 980 | 19 |
| Life University | Life University, GA | 983 | 18 |
| Eastern Illinois University | Eastern Illinois University, IL | 1000 | NA |
| Greenville University | Greenville University, IL | 1003 | 22 |
| Rockford University | Rockford University, IL | 980 | 16 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Alcorn State University. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive for Alcorn State University, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Faulkner University | Faulkner University, AL | 1021 | 21 |
| University of West Alabama | University of West Alabama, AL | 1015 | 19 |
| Central Baptist College | Central Baptist College, AR | 1011 | 21 |
| Henderson State University | Henderson State University, AR | 1019 | 19 |
| University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton | University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton, AR | 1020 | 20 |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Alcorn State University. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auburn University at Montgomery | Auburn University at Montgomery, AL | 1051 | 22 |
| Huntingdon College | Huntingdon College, AL | 1086 | 21 |
| Jacksonville State University | Jacksonville State University, AL | 1055 | 20 |
| Spring Hill College | Spring Hill College, AL | 1094 | 22 |
| Troy University | Troy University, AL | 1050 | 21 |
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Accounting and Related Services
- Agricultural Business and Management
- Agriculture, General
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Applied Mathematics
- Biology, General
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Chemistry
- Communication and Media Studies
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
Frequently Asked Questions About Alcorn State University Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a lower salary, $36421 annually, especially in non-technical fields.
Question: What is the tuition fee for Alcorn State University?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is relatively low, around $24062 per year, making it more affordable for many students.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship at Alcorn State University?
Answer: Your chances of getting a scholarship are excellent, with more than a 80% chance, depending on your academic performance and extracurricular involvement.
Question: What is the acceptance rate for Alcorn State University?
Answer: The acceptance rate of Alcorn State University is 29.93 which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.
Question: What is the average GPA of admitted students at Alcorn State University?
Answer: The average GPA of admitted students is 3.2. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
Question: What is the minimum GPA required for admission to Alcorn State University?
Answer: The minimum GPA required for admission is typically around 2.9, though this can vary depending on other factors such as test scores, extracurriculars, and essays.
Question: What are my chances at Alcorn State University with a 2.9 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 2.9 or less, it may makes admission difficult. However, your chances may improve if you have strong test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays.
Question: Can I apply to Alcorn State University if my GPA is below 2.8
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is 3.2, applicants with lower GPAs can still be considered if they have strong test scores, extracurriculars, and compelling personal essays that demonstrate resilience and potential.
Question: How competitive is the SAT score requirement for Alcorn State University?
Answer: Admission to Alcorn State University is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1019 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 903-1115
Question: Is it possible to transfer to Alcorn State University from another university?
Answer: Yes, many students successfully transfer to Alcorn State University each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.
Question: What is the campus culture like at Alcorn State University?
Answer: The campus culture at Alcorn State University is diverse and vibrant, with numerous student organizations, sports teams, and cultural activities. It’s an ideal environment for personal growth and building lifelong connections.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting into Alcorn State University?
Answer: 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.
Full list of All degree programs offered by Alcorn State University.
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in 2024, US Department of Education's latest 2024 statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.