Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants.
35%
SAT 25th-75th percentileThe middle range of SAT scores for admitted students: a quarter scored below the low number and a quarter scored above the high number.
790–1020
Undergrad enrollment
5,519
Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost.
$20,077
In-state tuition
$9,922
Out-of-state tuition
$17,272
Housing
32% on-campus
Top Major
Nursing (15%)
Avg ACT Score
16-20
In-State Cost
~$20,000/yr
Acceptance Rate
35-50%
4-Year Grad Rate
27%
First-Gen Students
~50%
Median Earnings (1yr)
Quick answers
What is the acceptance rate at Southern University and A & M College?
Southern University and A & M College's acceptance rate is approximately 35% (Baton Rouge, LA), based on the most recent figures we compiled from public and primary sources.
What SAT score do you need for Southern University and A & M College?
Admitted students at Southern University and A & M College typically score 790–1020 on the SAT (the middle-50% range). Scores outside this band are still admitted, especially with strong applications.
How much does Southern University and A & M College cost?
At Southern University and A & M College, the average net price (after aid) is about $20,077 per year. Actual cost varies with financial aid and residency.
How many undergraduates attend Southern University and A & M College?
Southern University and A & M College enrolls approximately 5,519 undergraduate students.
Where is Southern University and A & M College located?
Southern University and A & M College is located in Baton Rouge, LA.
Southern University and A&M College, Louisiana's flagship HBCU, blends rigorous academics with vibrant campus traditions. Known for its powerhouse nursing program and tight-knit community, it offers an accessible yet demanding education where nearly half of students are first-generation. The Jaguars' spirit runs deep here—from the Human Jukebox marching band to a culture that champions Black excellence.
Admissions
Southern University maintains a moderately selective admissions process with Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. hovering between 35-50%, depending on the source. The university seeks students who rank in the upper 50% of their high school class, with minimum test scores of 20 ACT (1020 SAT) and a 2.0 GPA. Notably, about 50% of admitted applicants enroll—a YieldThe share of admitted students who actually choose to enroll. Colleges watch it closely, which is why some weigh how interested you seem. rate suggesting strong regional appeal among Louisiana students. While test scores are considered, the average admitted student profile shows ACT scores around 16-20 and SAT scores near 890-1020, indicating Holistic admissionsA review that weighs the whole applicant — grades, essays, activities, and context — rather than relying on test scores and GPA alone. beyond just numbers.
Acceptance Rate: Ranges from 35% (US News) to 50% (MeetYourClass)
Typical Admitted Student: ACT 16-20 / SAT 890-1020, top 50% of class
This land-grant HBCU offers 54 degree programs spanning nursing, criminal justice, business, and engineering. The nursing program stands out as a national leader, producing 15% of graduates, followed by criminal justice (11%) and business administration (7%). Southern operates with a comprehensive academic model that includes graduate and professional programs, notably a respected law school. The curriculum emphasizes practical training—many programs incorporate internships and community partnerships. Classes remain relatively small, fostering close faculty mentorship characteristic of HBCUs.
Top Programs: Nursing (15% of graduates), Criminal Justice (11%), Business (7%)
Special Recognition: Nursing program ranked among nation's best by alumni
Degree Levels: Offers bachelor's through doctoral programs
With 32% of students living on campus, Southern thrives as a residential community anchored by its $29 million Student Life Center—a hub with collaborative study spaces and tech-equipped lounges. The university pulses with HBCU traditions: the Human Jukebox marching band, homecoming step shows, and Greek life (Alpha Kappa Alpha and Omega Psi Phi were both founded at HBCUs). About two-thirds of students commute, creating a mix of campus vibrancy and local engagement. Athletics—especially football and basketball—unite the Jaguar community, while 100+ student organizations cater to diverse interests from robotics to gospel choir.
Southern faces challenges with graduation rates—just 27% graduate in four years, though that climbs to 50% within six years. The 67% first-year retention rate suggests academic support systems help many persist. Alumni earn median salaries of $40,903 one year post-graduation, rising to $43,371 after a decade. These figures reflect both the socioeconomic backgrounds of many students and the university's mission to serve underrepresented populations. The law school and nursing program produce particularly strong earners, with many graduates entering Louisiana's public sector.
Annual costs run approximately $20,000 for in-state students including $9,000 tuition, $1,300 for books, and $3,400 for transportation. Nearly all students receive financial aid—the university distributes federal, state, and institutional grants alongside work-study opportunities. The Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator helps families estimate actual costs after aid. Southern participates in Louisiana's TOPS scholarship program, making it affordable for qualifying state residents. Budget-conscious students appreciate the low loan fees ($52 annually) compared to national averages.
Southern University carves its niche as an HBCU that delivers career-ready graduates while preserving Black cultural heritage. Its nursing program rivals those at far more selective institutions, and the law school feeds Louisiana's legal pipeline. Unlike predominantly white flagship universities, Southern centers African-American experiences—whether through courses on the African diaspora or campus events celebrating Juneteenth. The balance of affordability (thanks to Louisiana aid programs) and strong professional outcomes makes it a 'best bang for the buck' contender. For students seeking an authentic HBCU experience with robust STEM offerings, Southern represents both tradition and upward mobility.
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