About Norfolk State University

Founded in 1935, Norfolk State University. is a Public college. Located in Virginia, which is a city setting in Virginia, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 4,739 full time undergraduate students, and 682 full time graduate students.

The Norfolk State University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 17:1. There are 243 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Norfolk State University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.

Quick Facts

Acceptance Rate85%
Application Deadline
Application Fee25
SAT Range620-860
ACT Range16-20

Admissions at NSU are considered Less Selective, with ,65% of all applicants being admitted.

In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 23 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.

42% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 26% were in the top quarter, and 13% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.

STUDENT LIFE Reviews

We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Norfolk State University.

0%
“We”re apathetic”
28%
“We know about current events and vote”
67%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
5%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
2%
“We save it for the classroom”
22%
“Sometimes, but not often”
50%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
26%
“All the time, including weekends”
2%
“I”m always terrified”
12%
“I only go out in groups”
49%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
37%
“I feel extremely safe”
3%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
19%
“We bought the gear”
78%
“We live for the big game”
5%
“It”s not really our thing”
10%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
59%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
26%
“We”re a very artistic group”
2%
“Haven”t met them”
3%
“Available in class”
58%
“They keep regular office hours”
37%
“They”re always available”
2%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
4%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
84%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
11%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
26%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
33%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
33%
“We only party on weekends”
9%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
33%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
52%
“There might be people who do”
12%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
3%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
0%
“We”re apathetic”
28%
“We know about current events and vote”
67%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
5%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
2%
“We save it for the classroom”
22%
“Sometimes, but not often”
50%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
26%
“All the time, including weekends”
2%
“I”m always terrified”
12%
“I only go out in groups”
49%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
37%
“I feel extremely safe”
3%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
19%
“We bought the gear”
78%
“We live for the big game”
5%
“It”s not really our thing”
10%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
59%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
26%
“We”re a very artistic group”
2%
“Haven”t met them”
3%
“Available in class”
58%
“They keep regular office hours”
37%
“They”re always available”
2%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
4%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
84%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
11%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
26%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
33%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
33%
“We only party on weekends”
9%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
33%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
52%
“There might be people who do”
12%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
3%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
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  • How would you rate on-campus housing?

    154 Students rated on-campus housing 3.3 stars. 18 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate off-campus housing?

    100 Students rated off-campus housing 3.3 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate campus food?

    160 Students rated campus food 3.1 stars. 18 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate campus facilities?

    159 Students rated campus facilities 3.8 stars. 31 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate class size?

    159 Students rated class size 4.1 stars. 43 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate school activities?

    158 Students rated school activities 4.1 stars. 41 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate local services?

    157 Students rated local services 3.9 stars. 37 % gave the school a 5.0.

  • How would you rate academics?

    158 Students rated academics 4 stars. 40 % gave the school a 5.0.

Norfolk State University REVIEWS

What's your overall opinion of Norfolk State University?

86 Students rated Norfolk State University

Tanisha - 01/07/2025

Norfolk State University has truly captured my heart. Being on campus feels invigorating—it's all about energy, growth, and community here. What really stands out to me is the vibrant sports culture; whether I’m cheering on our athletes or getting in on the action myself, there’s always an exciting vibe. It makes me feel like I'm part of something larger than just academics. The enthusiasm from fellow students at games, pep rallies, and even casual sporting events is absolutely infectious, creating a real sense of pride and unity among us. On top of sports, the Arts program at Norfolk State is just incredible, offering amazing opportunities that ignite my creativity and inspiration. Whether it’s theater, music, or visual arts, the program really nurtures our talents and gives us the chance to express ourselves. It’s so uplifting to be around others who share that same passion and who motivate one another to grow. But what truly sets Norfolk State apart is the unwavering support and camaraderie you find here. Students are always stepping up to lend a hand—whether it’s forming study groups, mentoring, or just offering a few kind words. The staff is equally dedicated, ensuring we have all the resources and guidance we need to thrive. Combined, these elements create such a warm and enriching environment, and I couldn’t be prouder to call myself a Spartan.

JaNiyah - 12/10/2024

NSU is a place you have to experience for yourselves but they help you feel like you belong and encourages their student. I will say some students get wrapped up in the party life but if you have to make the experience that you want, I typically stay to myself and stay in my books. BEHOLD!

Ariana - 11/26/2024

I went on a college tour at Norfolk State University and I feel that it is welcoming and prioritizes education. I can't wait to possibly be in attendance Fall 2025. My tour guide was a social work major and really helped me open my eyes into what I want my future career to be.

Jewellyn - 11/23/2024

I love it amazing school

Norfolk State University FAQS

  1. What is the Acceptance Rate at Norfolk State University?

    The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Norfolk State University is 85%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.

  2. What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

    If I could go back in time I would tell myself to try more. I have realiazed that when I truley push myself and put my mind to something I can do amazing things. Yes it requires alot of hardwork but I really love teh adrennaine rush of working hard, whether, it's serving dozens and dozens of people, working on a drawing, leading a children choir, or just exercising. When I fully put my heart and soul in a task I really come out with a masterpiece. And with that information, I could use it to motivate my past self so I could pull out the confindence that I have recently found.

    Read all 133 answers

  3. What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?

    How hard it is to get out! My school has truly raised its standards since I came in. Even though I had a good enough gpa to get into almost any school of my choice, the entry requirements were a little low back then. It was really easy to get into NSU, but definitely hard to get out. The professors are really serious about your education and will truly make you work hard to earn your degree. I can say now that I truly appreciate that aspect of my alma mater.

    Read all 28 answers

  4. Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.

    my school is a very good. we learn also the teachers are vry smart and helpful, and they really strive to give us the best college expierence i really like norfolk state university.

    Read all 26 answers

  5. What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?

    There isn't enough parking spaces available.

    Read all 26 answers

  6. What kind of person should attend this school?

    A person who wants diversity!

    Read all 23 answers

  7. What's unique about your campus?

    The professors really care about you and your success.

    Read all 22 answers

  8. What kind of person should not attend this school?

    The type of person that shouldn't attend this school is a person that tends to goof off academically, because failing might be easier than that person thinks.

    Read all 21 answers

  9. What's the most frustrating thing about your school?

    There isn't always enough parking due to construction

    Read all 21 answers

  10. Describe your favorite campus traditions.

    The nursing program.

    Read all 20 answers

  11. Describe the students at your school.

    My classmates know why they came to college and what they are here for. They pay attention in class with no disturbances or interuptions. Everyone in my class has a goal and they are there to acheive it.

    Read all 19 answers

  12. Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!

    its a hbcu

    Read all 19 answers

  13. What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?

    The extra-curricular activities, my professors and the greek life.

    Read all 16 answers

Student Body

Students

64%

female

36%

male

4,739

Total Undergrad Enrollment

682

Total Grad Students

30%

Out-Of-State

68%

In-State

2%

International

Organizations

154

Student Organizations

8

Fraternities

8

Sororities

Housing

Yes

On-Campus Housing

36%

of students living on campus

Student Diversity

% American Indian/Alaskan Native
N/A
% Asian/Pacific Islander
1%
% Black or African-American
85%
% Hispanic/Latino
3%
% White or Caucasian
4%

TUITION & AID

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.

100% of students attending Norfolk State University receive some sort of financial aid. 74% were awarded federal grants.82%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.

Cost Out of State

$20,340

Tuition and fees(Out of state)

$2,535

Books and Supplies

$9,490

Room and Board

32,365

Total On Campus

Actual Cost By Income Level(W/Financial Aid)

Family Income
Cost
$0 - $30K
$13,952
$30 - $48K
$14,121
$48 - $75K
$15,036
$75 - $110K
$18,493
$110K & UP
$20,867

We use student reviews and the most current publicly available data on our school pages. As such, we don't typically remove or edit college information. Sources for school statistics and data include the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. Portions of college data include copyrighted material, which is reproduced on this website by permission of Wintergreen Orchard House, a division of Carnegie Communications. © 2009-2016 by Wintergreen Orchard House. All rights reserved.

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