Last Updated: Sunday May 17, 2026  ·  Source: IPEDS & College Scorecard Nov 2025
Fairmont State University (Fairmont State) — Acceptance Rate and Admission Requirements
Public Accredited · Higher Learning Commission Fairmont, West Virginia 99.2% Acceptance Rate

Fairmont State University (Fairmont State) Acceptance Rate, GPA, and Admission Requirements

📍 Fairmont, West Virginia 26554-2470 🏛️ Main Campus 🌐 https://www.fairmontstate.edu/

Fairmont State University — Admission Snapshot 2026

A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application

99.2%Acceptance Rate
3.36Avg GPA
993Avg SAT
20Avg ACT
$18,091Annual Cost
$46,857Grad Salary
33%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
99.2%
Avg GPA
3.36
Avg SAT
993
Avg ACT
20
Selectivity
Inclusive
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Higher Learning Commission
SAT Middle 50%
830–1040
ACT Middle 50%
17–23
Avg Net Price
$9,055
Need-Based Aid
33% receive Pell

Fairmont State University Acceptance Rate

Fairmont State University (Fairmont State) maintains an inclusive admission policy. With an acceptance rate of 99.2%, the institution prioritizes accessibility and opportunity for all qualified students.

Admissions Guidelines

  • Inclusive Enrollment: Emphasis is placed on meeting basic eligibility and high school completion.
  • Launchpad Policy: Ideal for students looking to build a GPA for future transfer or career certification.

Selectivity at a Glance

Inclusive
Fairmont State University Selectivity Meter
Selectivity scale: Inclusive — 99.2% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)

Recommended Academic Profile

Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.36 – 4.00
Target Match
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.16 – 3.35
Competitive Reach
Focus on Score Compensation
Below 2.91
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.

Fairmont State GPA Requirement

The average GPA of admitted students at Fairmont State is 3.36. Admission is competitive, but not extremely selective.

A mix of A's and B's is acceptable, and taking AP/IB courses helps.

Note: This is an unweighted GPA on a 4.0 scale. Students with AP or IB courses will typically have a weighted GPA of 3.56-3.76 for this same academic profile.

If your GPA is between 3.06 and 3.36, you should aim for a high SAT or ACT score.

Fairmont State GPA & Admission Outlook

Assessment: Holistic review is critical for admission.

Recommended Strategy: Requires Contextual Factors (Leadership, hardship, or talent).

Admissions at Fairmont State utilize a Holistic Review process. With an average admitted GPA of 3.36, the following table illustrates how your specific academic profile aligns with institutional expectations.

Candidate GPA Range
Admission Category
Strategic Requirement
3.36 – 4.00
Strategic Reach
Maintain Rigor & High Testing
3.16 – 3.35
Competitive Match
Focus on SAT/ACT Compensation
2.96 – 3.15
Secondary Reach
Personal Statement & Impact
Below 2.95
Institutional Reach
Requires Significant Contextual Factors

Expert Insight: 2026 Evaluation Metrics

  • The Rigor Metric: At Fairmont State, 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 Fairmont State

Admission Chance Predictor

Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on Fairmont State University's verified institutional data

--%
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.

Fairmont State University (Fairmont State) 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 Fairmont State Without SAT or ACT?

Fairmont 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.

Fairmont State University Average SAT Score: 993

The average SAT score of the admitted students at Fairmont State University is 993 on the 1600 SAT scale.

SAT Competitiveness

Fairmont State University SAT Competitiveness
SAT 993 — Accessible

This score makes it an easy target for SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 993 on the SAT.

SAT Math
430
SAT Reading
505
Composite
993
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1040 SAT or 23 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Fairmont 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 830, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at Fairmont State. 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

SAT score percentiles for Fairmont State University
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
SAT Math430380480
SAT Reading505450560
SAT Composite9938301040

It means that if you have scored less than 830 then you are below most of the admitted students at Fairmont State and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1040 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 Fairmont State University (Fairmont State) with a 1050 SAT?

With a 1050 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Fairmont State University (Fairmont State) are good but the admission staff at Fairmont State 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.

Fairmont State University (Fairmont State) ACT Requirements

The average ACT Score at Fairmont State is 20.

ACT Competitiveness

Fairmont State University ACT Competitiveness
ACT 20 — Less Competitive

This score makes Fairmont State University less competitive for ACT scores. You need to put average efforts to score 20 on the ACT.

ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections

ACT score percentiles for Fairmont State University
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
ACT Math191622
ACT English201623
ACT Composite201723

Can I get into Fairmont State University with a 23 ACT?

A 23 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at Fairmont 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 Fairmont 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 Fairmont 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 Fairmont 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 23 ACT gets your application through the first filter — but your essays and activities are what move it forward from there.

View a list of all colleges with an average ACT score of 20

Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for Fairmont State

Inclusive Strategy: Success & Transfer

Fairmont State provides an open gateway to higher education. Success here is about utilizing resources and planning your long-term academic or career trajectory.

Meet Eligibility Floors

Ensure you have your high school diploma or GED ready. Open admission means you are in as long as you meet the basic administrative requirements.

Placement Preparation

Focus on the ACCUPLACER or internal placement tests. Performing well here allows you to jump directly into credit-bearing Math and English.

Transfer Path Planning

If you intend to move to a more selective school later, maintain a 3.5+ GPA here to make yourself a highly competitive transfer candidate.

Career Certification

Identify specific certificate programs or internships offered by Fairmont State that connect directly to the local job market.

Note: While acceptance is guaranteed, space in specific high-demand programs (like Nursing or Tech) may still be competitive.

Fairmont State Profile

Full Name
Fairmont State University (Fairmont State)
City
Fairmont
State
West Virginia
ZIP Code
26554-2470
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Higher Learning Commission (NCACHE)

Is a Fairmont State Degree Worth It?

Getting into Fairmont State 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. Fairmont State 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 Fairmont State is $42,200 and the graduate unemployment rate is 3.96%.

How much does a degree from Fairmont State Cost?

The average annual cost of the degree at Fairmont State University is $18,091. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Fairmont State University is $9,055.

33% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 41.3 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Fairmont State and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.

At Fairmont 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 Fairmont State as your choice in the form.

How much does a Fairmont State Graduate earn?

The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $46,857. An average Fairmont State 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.

$18,091Annual Cost
$9,055Net Price
33%Pell Grant
41.3%Federal Loan
$46,857Grad Salary (10yr)

Compare Similar Colleges

Less Competitive

Less Competitive Schools

These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Fairmont State University. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.

SchoolLocationSATACT
Alabama A & M University Normal, AL 947 17
Alabama State University Montgomery, AL 977 18
Baptist Health College Little Rock Little Rock, AR 980 20
Clayton State University Morrow, GA 973 18
Gordon State College Barnesville, GA 950 18
University of Hawaii-West Oahu Kapolei, HI 973 18
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College Saint Mary of the Woods, IN 966 17
St Luke's College Sioux City, IA 980 18
Baker University Baldwin City, KS 950 17
Alice Lloyd College Pippa Passes, KY 980 19
Same Competitive

Equally Competitive Schools

These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Fairmont State University. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.

SchoolLocationSATACT
University of Bridgeport Bridgeport, CT 985 NA
Delaware State University Dover, DE 984 24
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Tifton, GA 994 19
College of Coastal Georgia Brunswick, GA 1001 18
Columbus State University Columbus, GA 994 21
More Competitive

More Competitive Schools

These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Fairmont State University. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

SchoolLocationSATACT
Jacksonville State University Jacksonville, AL 1055 21
Marion Military Institute Marion, AL 1043 20
University of Arkansas at Little Rock Little Rock, AR 1049 21
Arkansas Tech University Russellville, AR 1050 21
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus Magnolia, AR 1050 20

Degree Programs at Fairmont State

Bachelor Degree Programs

Full list of all degree programs offered by Fairmont State University →

Frequently Asked Questions About Fairmont State Admissions

Graduates of this university typically earn a lower salary, $46,857 annually, especially in non-technical fields.

The tuition fee at this university is relatively low, around $18,091 per year, making it more affordable for many students.

33.0% of students receive a Pell Grant at this institution. Your chances of need-based aid are moderate and depend primarily on your household income. Filing FAFSA early significantly improves your chances of receiving the maximum available grant amount.

The acceptance rate of Fairmont State University is 99.2% 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 3.36. 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 3.06, you are in the standard pool. If you are below a 3.06, we need to focus on your personal essay and letters of recommendation to explain the context behind your grades.

If your GPA is 2.96 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 3.36, 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 Fairmont State University is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 993 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 830–1040.

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.

Last Updated: Sunday May 17, 2026

SK

Sohaib Ahmad Khan

Sohaib Ahmad Khan is a leading career counselor and admission guidance expert who has guided over 50,000 students worldwide. He is the author of four books and developer of widely used career counseling and aptitude assessment systems. .

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