Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU), founded in 1867, is a historically Black university in Charlotte, North Carolina, known for its strong STEM programs and commitment to social mobility. JCSU offers undergraduate degrees across three colleges, with particular strengths in computer science, business administration, and social work. The university's Metropolitan College provides flexible programs for working adults. JCSU's 100-acre campus features historic landmarks like the Biddle Memorial Hall and modern facilities like the new Science Center.
JCSU's research initiatives address urban challenges through centers like the Center for Renewable Energy and Sustainability. The university's NCAA Division II athletics and 70+ student organizations create a vibrant campus life. Alumni include educators, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders who carry forward JCSU's mission of empowering underserved communities through education.
Johnson C Smith University Acceptance Rate
Johnson C Smith University (JCSU) is a well-known institution with a selective admissions process. With an acceptance rate of 42.87%, successful applicants typically show strong performance across both academic and personal categories.
Admissions Guidelines
- Selective Enrollment: Applicants need a solid GPA and proof of academic growth.
- Holistic Balance: Strong recommendations and community involvement are highly valued.
If your GPA is slightly below the institutional average, you can remain competitive by scoring well on standardized tests and showcasing leadership in co-curricular activities.
Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem .
Johnson C Smith University Admission Requirements
JCSU GPA Requirement
JCSU GPA & Admission Outlook
Assessment:
Recommended Strategy:
Admissions at JCSU utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 2.48, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.
| Candidate GPA Range | Admission Category | Strategic Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 2.48 – 4.00 | Maintain Rigor & High Testing | |
| 2.28 – 2.47 | Competitive Match | Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation |
| 2.08 – 2.27 | Secondary Reach | Personal Statement & Impact |
| Below 2.07 | Institutional Reach | Requires Significant Contextual Factors |
Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics
- The Rigor Metric: At JCSU, 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.
Admission Chance Predictor
Real-Time Sensitive Analysis
Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.
Calculated via College Portal’s Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards.
Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.
Johnson C Smith University (JCSU) SAT Requirements
Each school has different requirements for SAT and ACT testing. For the 2026 academic cycle, the landscape of standardized testing has shifted back toward Test-Required policies at the majority of highly selective and Ivy+ institutions. Following a multi-year "Test-Optional" pilot, data-driven results have led universities like Harvard, Yale, Brown, and the University of Texas at Austin to reinstate the SAT and ACT as mandatory components of the application.
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 2025 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.
Johnson C Smith University Average SAT Score: 890
The average SAT score of the admitted students at Johnson C Smith University is 890 on the 1600 SAT scale.
SAT Competitiveness
This score makes it an easy target or SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 890 on the SAT.
Key Insight:Aim for the 75th percentile (920 SAT or ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Johnson C Smith 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 850, you must retake the SAT to improve your chances of admission to JCSU. 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.
SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections
| Section | Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Math | 0 | ||
| SAT Reading | 0 | ||
| SAT Composite | 890 | 850 | 920 |
It means that if you have scored less than 850 then you are below most of the admitted students at JCSU 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 900
Can I get into Johnson C Smith University (JCSU) with a 900 SAT?
With a 900 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Johnson C Smith University (JCSU) are good but the admission staff at JCSU 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.
JCSU Profile
Name: Johnson C Smith University (JCSU)
City: Charlotte
State: North Carolina
Type: Non-Profit Private
Zip: 28216-5398
Campus: Main
Accredited by: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
How much does a degree from JCSU Cost?
The average annual cost of the degree at Johnson C Smith University is USD: 34228. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Johnson C Smith University is much less than this.
How can I get a scholarship?
67.78% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 73.48 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to JCSU and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.
At Johnson C Smith University, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist JCSU as your choice in the form.
How much a JCSU Graduate make?
The average annual salary of the graduate after 4-6 years of graduation is USD 42680. An average JCSU 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 Johnson C Smith University. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gallaudet University | Gallaudet University, DC | 857 | 16 |
| Fort Valley State University | Fort Valley State University, GA | 864 | 18 |
| Virginia Union University | Virginia Union University, VA | 860 | NA |
| Chamberlain University-Illinois | Chamberlain University-Illinois, IL | 868 | 16 |
Equally Competitive Schools
These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Johnson C Smith University. If your SAT or ACT score are competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bennett College | Bennett College, NC | 890 | NA |
More Competitive Schools
These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Johnson C Smith University. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.
| School | Location | SAT | ACT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama A & M University | Alabama A & M University, AL | 947 | 17 |
| Johnson University Florida | Johnson University Florida, FL | 940 | NA |
| Warner University | Warner University, FL | 937 | 17 |
| Gordon State College | Gordon State College, GA | 950 | 18 |
| Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College | Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, IN | 966 | 17 |
Degree Programs
Bachelor Degree Programs
- Biology, General
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Chemistry
- Communication and Media Studies
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Computer Engineering
- Criminology
- Dance
- Economics
- English Language and Literature, General
Frequently Asked Questions About Johnson C Smith University Admissions
Answer: Graduates of this university typically earn a lower salary, $42680 annually, especially in non-technical fields.
Question: What is the tuition fee?
Answer: The tuition fee at this university is moderate, around $34228 per year. Many students seek financial aid and scholarships to manage the cost.
Question: What are my chances of getting a scholarship ?
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?
Answer: The acceptance rate of Johnson C Smith University is 42.87 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?
Answer: The average GPA of admitted students is 2.48. This reflects the competitive academic profile expected from applicants.
Question: What is the minimum GPA required for admission?
Answer: 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 2.18, you're in the standard pool. If you are below a 2.18, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.
Question: What are my chances with a 2.18 GPA?
Answer: If your GPA is 2.08 or less, it may makes 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.
Question: Can I apply to Johnson C Smith University if my GPA is below 2.08
Answer: While the average GPA of admitted students is 2.48, 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
Answer: Admission to Johnson C Smith University is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 890 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 850-920
Question: Is it possible to transfer from another university?
Answer: 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.
Question: How can I improve my chances of getting Admissions?
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 Johnson C Smith University.
Data on this page is sourced from IPEDS, College Scorecard's latest data as provided in 2025, US Department of Education's latest 2025 statistics, Institute's official websites and printed material as well as additional publicly available sources.