Founded in 1871, Plymouth State University. is a Public college. Located in New Hampshire, which is a city setting in New Hampshire, the campus itself is Town. The campus is home to 4,124 full time undergraduate students, and 925 full time graduate students.
The Plymouth State University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 17:1. There are 189 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Plymouth State University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
78%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
50
SAT Range
ACT Range
Admissions at PSU are considered Less Selective, with ,46% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 17 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
52% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 18% were in the top quarter, and 5% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Plymouth State University.
5%
“We”re apathetic”
14%
“We know about current events and vote”
69%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
12%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
2%
“We save it for the classroom”
31%
“Sometimes, but not often”
52%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
14%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
14%
“I only go out in groups”
36%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
50%
“I feel extremely safe”
24%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
44%
“We bought the gear”
32%
“We live for the big game”
5%
“It”s not really our thing”
10%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
64%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
21%
“We”re a very artistic group”
0%
“Haven”t met them”
0%
“Available in class”
64%
“They keep regular office hours”
36%
“They”re always available”
12%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
69%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
19%
“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”
12%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
31%
“We only party on weekends”
57%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
2%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
44%
“There might be people who do”
40%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
14%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
5%
“We”re apathetic”
14%
“We know about current events and vote”
69%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
12%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
2%
“We save it for the classroom”
31%
“Sometimes, but not often”
52%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
14%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
14%
“I only go out in groups”
36%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
50%
“I feel extremely safe”
24%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
44%
“We bought the gear”
32%
“We live for the big game”
5%
“It”s not really our thing”
10%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
64%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
21%
“We”re a very artistic group”
0%
“Haven”t met them”
0%
“Available in class”
64%
“They keep regular office hours”
36%
“They”re always available”
12%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
69%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
19%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
0%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
108 Students rated on-campus housing 3.5 stars. 11 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
72 Students rated off-campus housing 3.7 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
109 Students rated campus food 2.8 stars. 5 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
112 Students rated campus facilities 4.1 stars. 41 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
112 Students rated class size 4.5 stars. 63 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
112 Students rated school activities 4 stars. 41 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
112 Students rated local services 4.2 stars. 53 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
112 Students rated academics 3.9 stars. 37 % gave the school a 5.0.
Plymouth State University REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of Plymouth State University?
53 Students rated Plymouth State University
Alexis - 09/17/2024
It’s ok. They really try
Abigail - 08/26/2022
I love Plymouth and can’t imagine having gone anywhere else. Like any school it’s not without it’s issues but overall it’s a good school. Class sizes are small and I feel like my professors really care. There’s definitely a group for everyone. If you want to party it’s there. Personally I only partake occasionally but it’s there. The people are great and there’s always someone around. The dorms are a down side. Some of them are better than others but they aren’t the nicest. The food is okay at best. Overall I love it even with its flaws.
Jackson - 06/07/2022
Plym has given me so many avenues to grow as a learner, and a member of society. I have learned so much and have created some amazing memories so far. The sense of community is amazing and is probably the best part of our college. From our fun and insane campus traditions (Pumpkins on Rounds) to the annual First Fire, there are so many things that tie our community together no matter your major or activities you do. Plymouth to me doesn't feel like a super-scary imposing college where you have to learn and get a job. Sure that's what we all prepare for but Plymouth makes memories and has oppetunites that other colleges dont. For my first day on campus we did kayak racing on the river for class bonding. What school do you know that does that?!! Plymouth is different. Plymouth is what college should be; a solid education, lots of fun times and great memories, and a place to call home.
Kaitlyn - 06/07/2022
Plymouth State is an amazing school for anyone and everyone. You will never get bored at PSU as there are always fun things happening in the dorms and on campus in general. The class sizes are on the smaller side, making it easier to reach out to professors and collaborate with your peers. The dorms are clean and there are options to get into the on-campus singles, suites, and apartments after your freshman year! The food on campus is yummy and there's always something different to try.
Caitlin - 05/16/2022
To get the best out of Plymouth, you need to be committed and find you place. It is located in a very small town and has a large party scene. Students can easily be sucked into that culture and lose sight of their educational goals. With focus, students will find a wide array of academic interest, committed professors, and a great extracurricular scene. Plymouth State students are dedicated to their school and find the best of both education and the "college life".
Lauren - 04/19/2021
The location is one of the best parts about it. The campus itself is well kept and in a beautiful location with lots of hiking, skiing, and other nature activities available. However, concerning restaurants and other locations around Plymouth, it's pretty barren, and you'll likely have to travel over an hour outside of campus to go shopping or do anything interesting besides skiing or snowboarding in the winter. I'd say the worst thing about Plym is the dorms 100%. Pray for your life if you're in Pemi... even Grafton or Belknap. Vandalism is far too common and it's likely you'll be woken up in the middle of the night by fire alarms at least a dozen times per semester. At least another 30 times just by other people screaming drunk through the hallways. It's definitely a party school and for that reason, it can be a lot of fun, but the housing situation for thousands of dollars per semester is just sad. Not to mention it's highly unfeasible to live off-campus until at the earliest, you're halfway into your junior year. Had I known this before going here- I simply would've picked a different school.
mary - 04/03/2020
From my time spent at Plymouth I can confidently say I am beyond happy with my choice of school. The smaller student population allows for much more personal relationships with professors, leading to an overall more supportive learning environment. Plymouth's campus is nestled in the white mountains with a beautiful view and exists within the cutest small town with small businesses and shops lining the main street area. My interactions with students at Plymouth have all been extremely positive whether they be an underclassmen or upper. Overall Plymouth State is a cheap option for students looking for a good education as well as an active lifestyle!
Lillian - 12/15/2019
The LGBTQ+ community is often pushed around and you are NOT allowed to change your name officially. Many trans and nonbinary students are dead named and misgendered constantly, as their dead name is their email and attendance name. The school ignores any action taken by the students, including petitions made to make name changes more accessible. If you chose to have a package delivered in your chosen name, you will be unable to retrieve the package or mail, even if it's delivered to your suite. Some buildings aren't ADA accessible, while some are broken. Then, on top of that, their allergen-free space is rarely stocked, making it impossible for some people who live in residence halls and are forced to spend thousands of dollars on a meal plan to eat there.
Ashley - 11/18/2019
Plymouth State University is a safe and welcoming community for everyone. No one here feels left out or secluded and their are opportunities and chances for everyone to have a wonderful time. You are almost guaranteed to make friends and have an amazing experience. The people here are wonderful and enthusiastic. There’s no place like Plym.
Michaela - 11/13/2019
Having transferred to Plymouth State University from a much larger public ivy-league, I have something to compare my educational experiences to. At PSU, I truly feel that my voice is heard and my opinion matters. We're a small school in central New Hampshire, but we have a lot to offer. Plymouth is a great little college town with access to a downtown, bars, local restaurants, and shops. PSU is an awesome school to attend if you're interested in all things outdoors due to our close proximity to the White Mountain region. For those who prefer a city, being two hours away from Boston, Montreal, Portland, and Burlington, we're situated at a great location for you. I've found that no matter your interests, you'll find your place amongst students at Plymouth State.
Brooklyn - 08/01/2019
Plymouth State university is by no means a perfect campus, though there are many good aspects to attending. If live high up in one of the residential dorms you will have an amazing view of the mountains and some windmills. I like that we encourage sustainability and respect for our environment. The drive for social change and political reform is immense at Plymouth State, activist students always encourage voting during the elections. A major complaint you will hear from a lot of students is that the quality of the cafeteria food is terrible. It is true, we receive the same recipes on a loop, and during non meal hours there is only pasta, pizza, salad, or sandwiches. I refrain from eating the meats at school because in good light you can tell the meat in undercooked, often it is pink on the sides. During our holiday meals last year the birds that got served had pink in them, it was so embarrassing because we had guests. However, other than the food, mostly everything else about this college is great. The dorms are quiet, the teachers are amazing, and students are chill and very smart.
Lindsey - 06/19/2019
Plymouth State has been exactly what I had hoped it would be. I was searching for a community within another local community and I certainly found that. The staff and the students are extremely friendly and there is plenty to do both on campus and off-campus in the surrounding areas indoors and outdoors.
stephanie - 06/16/2019
I love Plymouth State university it is the perfect school for me! everyone is so nice and welcoming I can't wait to become a grad student here! My freshman year I was little nervous that I would be going to a small school but I found out that the size of the school doesn't matter. They have so many clubs and sports teams to help you male new friends and make you feel like you are at home!
Jocelyn - 04/26/2019
Plymouth State University is a school that offers many opportunities to get involved in extracurricular activities and the outdoors. There are many positive aspects to the school yet there could be improvements in student privacy and housing options.
Keegan - 04/16/2019
Over all, I enjoy Plymouth State University a lot. The people around the campus are nice and everyone seems to really love the school. After talking to some students, you can tell that they care about different things. Some care about drama while others are into sports. The campus is great! There are lots of little shops downtown that are easy to walk to and it is not to far away from some cities.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Plymouth State 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?
If time could be unwound and I could speak to my highschool senior self; I would thank him for getting me where I am today. My seinor year was supposed to be fun and lax. Mine was full of worry about college. Applying for scholarships, touring colleges, getting ready for the next big step in my life. I had no idea how I was going to pay for it. My mother had medical bills which my FASFA helped pay off. Currently I work two jobs and am also a full time student. To my highschool self I would just tell him everything would be fine and we would find a way no matter what. I would tell him college would be easier than he thought it would be; I would tell him there wouldnt be any bullies like highschool. He wouldn't be made fun of .
The best thing about my school is the atmosphere. Everyone, including students, employees and, professors are hands down, the friendliest people i've ever met in my life. Coming from a town near Boston MA, Plymouth NH is a much friendlier and accepting place to be and to thrive as a student. The view is breathtaking and woulnd't change it for the world.
What kind of person should not attend this school?
Students who need a degree of luxury should't attend Plymouth State University. The living quarters leave much to be desired and most of the academic buildings haven't changed since the 1950's. Also, those with a higher standard of academic integrity should look elsewhere seeing as classes are not as challenging as other four-year institutions. Students who are looking for shops, restaurants, and other activities outside of school, should steer away from Plymouth State University and seek out a larger college or university.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
There really isn't many bad things that I would have to say about the University itself. The location of Plymouth is kind of inconvinient because of the scarce accesibility to big shopping malls. The closest big shopping area is in Tilton, which is 20 minutes away. This doesn't bother a lot of people but girls that love to shop may struggle with this.
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?
I probably brag the most right now about my grades. I have done really well while I have been at Plymouth State. Another thing I frequently talk about with my friends is the discount rates for snowboarding at the local mountain that Plymouth offers.
My school is best known for being a close knit communtiy of educators and students who all work towards a common goal: Getting the student the best education to provide for their futures~ Plymouth State offers many programs to help you reach your goals from study groups, to labs and also offers great recreational activities. Winter sports here are the best!
What's the one thing you wish someone had told you about freshman year?
I wish I had known how hard it would be to be socially active on campus while living at home. Living at home makes it really hard to become involved in many campus activities, and therefore you do not meet as many people.
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
I looked at a lot of schools, from online degree programs to going somewhere nearby. I found that Plymouth was able to offer me an online degree that works with my own current employment. I am a teacher seeking an M.Ed. in Adminstration and I will be able to do my internship right in my own building. Plus, I can take most of my classes online. Some of the classes are hybrids, meaning I go to a few classes for the discussions and finish online. In short, the best of both worlds at Plymouth State University!
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
By far the most frustrating part of school would have to be paying for it. The lack of financial aid available for me as a full time student is extremly displeasing as i am responsible for the entire bill. I beleieve the demand for higher education in today's work force is needed more each year; leading to my decision to stay enrolled in school. With both my parents unable to budget my schooling, more grants, scholarships and "free money" should be given out, especially to students like myself who can adapt and succeed in college.
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.
99% of students attending Plymouth State University receive some sort of financial aid.
32% were awarded federal grants.79%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.