Founded in 1866, Fisk University. is a Private college. Located in Tennessee, which is a city setting in Tennessee, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 723 full time undergraduate students, and 38 full time graduate students.
The Fisk University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 11:1. There are 54 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Fisk University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
78%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
25
SAT Range
820-1010
ACT Range
17-22
Admissions at are considered Less Selective, with ,8% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 3 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
81% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 46% were in the top quarter, and 18% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Fisk University.
0%
“We”re apathetic”
9%
“We know about current events and vote”
68%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
23%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
0%
“We save it for the classroom”
14%
“Sometimes, but not often”
41%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
45%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
9%
“I only go out in groups”
55%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
36%
“I feel extremely safe”
45%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
25%
“We bought the gear”
30%
“We live for the big game”
0%
“It”s not really our thing”
19%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
29%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
52%
“We”re a very artistic group”
0%
“Haven”t met them”
5%
“Available in class”
59%
“They keep regular office hours”
36%
“They”re always available”
0%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
23%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
77%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
0%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
0%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
41%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
45%
“We only party on weekends”
14%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
18%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
45%
“There might be people who do”
23%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
14%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
0%
“We”re apathetic”
9%
“We know about current events and vote”
68%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
23%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
0%
“We save it for the classroom”
14%
“Sometimes, but not often”
41%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
45%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
9%
“I only go out in groups”
55%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
36%
“I feel extremely safe”
45%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
25%
“We bought the gear”
30%
“We live for the big game”
0%
“It”s not really our thing”
19%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
29%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
52%
“We”re a very artistic group”
0%
“Haven”t met them”
5%
“Available in class”
59%
“They keep regular office hours”
36%
“They”re always available”
0%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
23%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
77%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
0%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
56 Students rated on-campus housing 3.2 stars. 9 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
34 Students rated off-campus housing 3.2 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
59 Students rated campus food 2.5 stars. 7 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
59 Students rated campus facilities 2.9 stars. 10 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
59 Students rated class size 4.3 stars. 56 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
58 Students rated school activities 3.1 stars. 14 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
59 Students rated local services 3.8 stars. 36 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
59 Students rated academics 4 stars. 36 % gave the school a 5.0.
Fisk University REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of Fisk University?
20 Students rated Fisk University
Gabrielle
Fisk has a lot of good aspects about it compared to other HBCUs. It's a decently organized school, and a lot of the proffessors and staff are nice. Fisk is a smaller school, which in my opinion, is a great aspect about it because it feels like a big family. This is great for keeping a good culture about the school and also for safety reasons. Also, Fisk is amazing for finding the right internships, and the career services are AMAZING. The financial aid is amazing too, with most students receiving a full tuition scholarship. However, there are some problems. The school is one of the oldest in the state, which means certain things aren't kept up like they should be (like the dorms - especially Jubilee Dorm). Also, there is a large lack of communication, which is very frustrating, especially if it's concerning class registration or financial aid. The cafeteria food is....pretty bad. It's probably a step above public school food, but that's it. Overall, the school has great qualities but needs to straighten up some of its foundational aspects.
kaylaa
I love Fisk it’s an amazing school.
Detriunna
I am a former Fiskite. I went to Fisk my freshman year of college and the conditions of that University are just terrible. If you are a high school student or college student considering transferring, PLEASE do not go here because you're going to be disappointed and miserable. There is no variety in food on campus. Imagine having taco Tuesday, mystery meat Wednesday, and catfish Friday for an entire year. Sleeping in a dorm with mold in the vents, shower stalls, and in the cracks of the walls (let's not forget about the mushrooms too). Going to the financial aid/ student accounts office for help and constantly having to worry. "Do they know how to do their job" and pray they don't say "I don't know" to you four times because you're asking important questions. Not to mention this school can not handle ANYTHING military-related. Because the one person who used to handle it left and was never replaced. Fisk is only a school of they believe struggle and literal throwing you in a stressful and unnecessary situation will make you resilient. I'm being honest they think that. When you bring up a better school they will downplay them and say they have problems. But in reality, their problems are nowhere near nasty and sad as ours. All it does is waste student time, make us hate the school, and feel trapped because we don't have the money to pay the school off to go somewhere else for an education. Don't go to Fisk University. YOU WILL NOT HAVE STABLE WIFI TO COMPLETE ASSIGNMENTS.
(Also, I already spoke to SGA, student accounts, and the ANG recruiter on campus. And went to the town hall meeting and asked my questions to the President, don't bother thinking things will change because they won't.
JeNay
I believe that Fisk University is very unique. Existing for 133 years, Fisk holds a strong background. There are many visitors on our campus daily, which gives the campus a feel of a museum. We live at a museum for college, which no other student body can say about their university. Great opportunities are also present at Fisk. The majority are for our career purposes, while others are for educational and social purposes. Fisk has many networks for all majors and will do anything to assist the student body with needed resources. These networks and resources allow students to build a profile and develop skills that will be essential in life. Leaders exist amongst the campus body in a great amount. These leaders start at the level of the faculty and are spread through the student body. Underclassmen can rely on the upperclassmen to answer our questions and communicate information that will be beneficial to students. Different from many universities, students can access teachers and other staff at almost anytime with face-to-face and one-on-one time. Fisk offers opportunities to build beneficial relationships, creating an environment that is like no other college.
Kavon
My opinion on Fisk University would be that it’s a place where u can grow. Grow physically and mentally besides education. Fisk really helps you find yourself and figure out what you want to do in the future. Education wise, Fisk provides so much history . History meaning , just history about the school and just overall who you are and where you come from .
Eldrick
Fisk University is simply discribed in one word “Special”. People at Fisk university are very nice and kind but some people can be rude. At Fisk you have to surround your self with nice and cool people to have fun on a normal day, but when people are not studying and trying to graduate and actually enjoy life it is a heep of fun. Yes, Fisk is a small HBCU and Expensive but the people here actually do care about your well being and actually want to see you succeed. You will ups and downs with the Financial Aid office but they eventually get it solved it just might take them a while but it gets handled. I love my HBCU, but they do know how to push your buttons and get under your skin because sometimes they do crazy stuff that they shouldn’t even have to do.
Garrette
Fisk University is a great HBCU (Historically Black College or University). Our academics come first. With our small numbers, I feel that the student to teacher relationship is more personal and you are not a number. The advisers, professors, and any staff member are here to make sure that you graduate on time. Even though Fisk may currently have around 850 students, we are very diverse. There is never a boring day on campus and it feels great to be living in on such historic ground.
Opeyemi
Fisk University is a multicultural HBCU.Majority of the student are Africa-American,including foreign student from all over the world.A good atmosphere with a promsing educational programs.Fisk still maintain the culture and tradition through sport.
Alexus
Overall i love the school. It’s a great learning environment and you will meet great people. The professors are very helpful and have very good office hours. The campus is very safe, we have security on campus. Upper class men are very helpful as well.
Crai'Sean
Fisk is one big happy family. Administration makes sure that everyone feels at home. To me that's very important. As students coming from different places around the country, it is important to find a place of comfort at your school. There is a culture at Fisk that is unlike no other. We are all one.
Evan
Fisk University, for me, has been a great experience as far as my education goes. Professors will be there when you need them, will have one on one sessions with you if their available, and help you through any problems you have in the course. As far as campus life goes, it's not the best but I can manage myself very well. I recommend Fisk to those looking for a strong educational experience, and those wanting an environment that is easy to access at any time.
SKYE
Fisk University is a beautiful campus and is always bustling with events and activities. It is impossible not to be involved in the many opportunities and events happening during the semester as professors and mentors encourage and guide you. I really like the practicality of the courses as well as how interesting most of them are. Fisk University also has great networking opportunities especially for minority students who are determined to work hard.
Niyonzima
My name is Niyonzima Adeline and I am a currently a freshman at Fisk University. Fisk is a great school although it can improve on some things overall it’s pretty fun. The campus is very small so basically everyone knows each other and most people are very friendly.
MaKayla
Fisk University is family oriented, and the professors are helpful; however, the university needs work done physically, and they should make improvements in how financial aid is operated. The students and the faculty are all friendly and approachable, even to a point to where one feels that they are apart of a family away from their family.
sydney
Fisk University was a great experience. It was one of those schools that I hadn't heard much about and didn't do much research on. But I didn't regret this at all; in fact, I was pleasantly surprised. I was able to learn so much and advance not only in education, but in life in general.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Fisk University is 78%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
Stay true to yourself. Realize that what you have in you that pushes you everyday to do more than what is expected will take you farther in life than you could've ever imagined. Stay focused on what you've always wanted to do because your hard work will get you there. Don't get discouraged because people look at you as unworthy because you weren't able to afford the nicest car because in the end you'll realize you're luckier than they'll ever be because of the love that surrounds you everyday. ALWAYS remember where you come from and NEVER be ashamed of it. Pray and ask God for understanding when friends and other students squander away the many opportunities that are afforded to them everyday. Don't freak out because you were accepted to med school early. Take it as a sign from God that he has big plans for you. Look back to what you have at home when you get sad and remember the love that got you where you are today.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
Students here have clearly been sheltered most of their lives and spoiled to the point where they wouldn't be able to handle life if any real problems ever came their way. Don't feel discouraged because you weren't able to afford nice things growing up and you aren't rich in college either. I feel as if I have the advantage over the wealthier kids because I know how to survive and I am above all else grateful for everything I've ben given in life and I've learned the true meaning of appreciation.
My classmates at Fisk University are serious about their education. Fisk is a private school and tuition is quite expensive. All the students recognize the expense of this university and want to get the most for their money. Although the students take their studies seriouslt, this does not stop them from knowing how to have a good time. I believe that Fisk University students have mastered the balance between the fun of social activities and the importance of academic success. I truly love being apart of the Fisk Family and hope we become even closer as we progress towards graduation.
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
Fisk University is unique because each and every one of us is able to be cultivated as leader and is personally attended to. We are such a small school that we are able to form personal relationshipis with our faculty and staff, which leads to opportunities that might not have been available otherwise. We focus on the advancement of each student while focusing on diversity, excellence, teamwork, accountability, integrity, leadership, and service.
What kind of person should not attend this school?
My school is typically know for saying "FIsk is not for everybody". This is absolutely correct. A person that came to school to participate in the large social activities or become a college party student and is not focused on academics would not typically be pleased with FIsk University.
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
I take great pride in being a Fiskite, yet there are aspects about my school that can be frustrating. At the age of 148 years old, Fisk has managed to sustain some of its tradional values, however as time evloves, there needs to be a medium that can emerge together the traditional values of the elders and modern ideals of students . Fisk University takes pride in being a private university, however by not recienvng those additonl funds from the goverment that could otherwise renovate certain aspects of our school, as Fisk strives to secure most students with scholarships.
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?
How small the classrooms are and how great the professors are. The class size is great because you have more time to spend with the professors and they are there for you when ever you need assistance, and you have the opportunity to build a personal relationship with many of the faculty and adminstration.
Fisk University is open to all types of students, however, the demanding work load and competitiveness for success may not be suitable for all students. Fisk's small population creates a family feel amoungst its students and faculty. This closeness grants the students to opportunity to actually meet and become familiar with their professors, which would be very difficult at larger universities. Students would prefer more accessibility to professors and smaller class sizes would be a prefect fit a Fisk University.
Because of its size, Fisk is truly a family. That is the most important feature of Fisk and every student contributes to that characteristic. Everybody speaks to everybody when walking past each other. If you ever meet another Fiskite, you instantly feel bonded to them, no matter how long ago they graduated. Fiskites look out for other Fiskites. In situations as simple as needing a ride to Wal-Mart, anybody is willing to help. If someone has a death in the family, it seems like the whole school is mourning with that student. On any given day, you can walk outside and see students chillin' on the yard or on the "Tree of Knowledge."
Nashville is definitely a college town. Tennessee State (HBCU) is almost within walking distance and most students at Fisk have a lot of friends at TSU. There's also Vanderbilt in close proximity, as well as a bunch of smaller schools (Belmont, Lipscomb, etc.) .
The most important thing is that Fisk is the type of school where either you absolutely love it or you hate it with a passion. So many students have expectations about how they want their college experience to be. Most of the students that come to Fisk freshman year expecting huge parties, wearing pajamas to class, getting lost in the crowd, and not having to excel in academics, Fisk is not the school for them. Luckily, they transfer their first year and Fisk is left with students that love the school and appreciate its legacy. Imagine a place where every person that is there WANTS to be there. It's great!
Due to the small size, not only to the professors know your name, they know your potential. The freshman core classes are designed to help students find a black identity by exposing them to black culture and literature that may have been "overlooked" during their early education. It's pretty cool because you get to discuss contemporary topics like Hip Hop in class. Most of the classes are really small, so class participation is necessary and vital. Actually, in most classes the students lead the discussion. Its usually not a situation where the teacher just lectures and students take notes. The teacher is involved in the discussion but its more like a conversation. However, in these types of classes, its important to be prepared for class and the teacher knows that you didn't read because you can't contribute to the discussion. Most of the classes are so interesting that its not unusual to find students having intellectual conversations in the cafeteria or dorms about a topic that was brought up in class. Fisk's education system really teaches you HOW to think, so that you can apply your knowledge and skills to any discipline, job, or situation. Most of Fisk's students go to graduate school.
Several of the professors are Fiskites, so they know and appreciate the legacy and traditions of the school and seek to uphold them. They are understanding because they've been there and they know when a student is pledging a fraternity/sorority or not to give a major assignment due during Homecoming Week.
Is the stereotype of students at your school accurate?
These stereotypes are not accurate. The history of Fisk reveals that mostly students from wealthy families attended Fisk in the past. This is simply because most of the black students that could afford a post-secondary education back in the 1800s were the mulatto sons and daughters of wealthy slave owners. This image simply stuck in the Nashville community. Also, many of the Fisk alumni are very successful in their various fields, leaving the impression that Fiskites excel in everything they do. Because Fisk is a gated campus that sits on a hill and overlooks the rest of Nashville, you can imagine why there may be a feeling that Fiskites are separated from the rest of the community.
What are the most popular student activities/groups?
Greek life is pretty interesting on campus. The greeks have a lot of fun, but the do not completely dominate campus life. Our Greeks are pretty unique. They party through the week, but they are some of the smartest people on campus.
Most of the fun on campus happens in the dorms, especially the Freshman dorms. Its really the first bonding experiences and thats how you develop so many memories and lifelong friendships.
We have a lot of Convocations with notable guest speakers, sometimes notable alum such as Nikki Giovanni or Matthew Knowles. These are great networking opportunities too.
Not many girls talk to guys on campus, simply because we are one big family and the guys are more like brothers. However there are a few power couples on campus. Most people have intercollegiate relationships with people at Vanderbilt or TSU.
If you are looking for the big party school, this is not the institution. Don't get me wrong, Fiskites party hard, but alot of the students are more Afrocentric and like other forms of entertainment like concerts, bowling, salsa dancing, open mics, movies, or house parties. Just because there aren't parties on campus every week doesn't mean Fiskites don't go to one of the several nightclubs in the area. It IS a college town afterall!
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
95% of students attending Fisk University receive some sort of financial aid.
56% were awarded federal grants.65%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.