College comparison

Appalachian State University vs James Madison University

A side-by-side of acceptance rate, test scores, and cost — source-cited estimates, not guarantees. Want the number that actually matters for your student? Model your admit odds at each.

Metric	Appalachian State University Boone, NC	James Madison University Harrisonburg, VA
Acceptance rateJames Madison University is more selective	90%	72%
SAT (25–75)	1120–1280	1170–1340
ACT (25–75)	—	—
Undergrad enrollment	19,444	20,888
Avg net price	$16,836	$23,322
Test policy	—	—
Type	Public	Public
Location	Boone, NC	Harrisonburg, VA

Quick answers

Is Appalachian State University or James Madison University harder to get into?

James Madison University is more selective: Appalachian State University's acceptance rate is approximately 90% and James Madison University's is approximately 72% (estimates from public and primary sources).

What SAT score do you need for Appalachian State University vs James Madison University?

The middle-50% SAT range is 1120–1280 at Appalachian State University and 1170–1340 at James Madison University. Scores outside these bands are still admitted, especially with strong applications.

Figures are estimates compiled from public datasets (College Scorecard / IPEDS) and primary sources; verify with each institution before relying on them.

These outputs are estimates from a baseline model — not guarantees of admission, cost, or outcome.