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Fairmont State University

Fairmont, WV·Public·2,690 students
Last updated: March 22, 2026

A good fit for students who want accessible admissions and families who need the lowest possible cost. freshman retention is below 65%. a public school with 2,690 students.

99%
Accept
2,690
Students
$9,055
Net Price
48%
Grad Rate
$38,400
Earnings
10 yr
$12,500
Debt

About This School

Fairmont State University is a public institution located in Fairmont, West Virginia with approximately 2,690 undergraduate students enrolled. Fairmont State University has an open or accessible admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 99%. The average net price after financial aid is $9,055 per year. The graduation rate is 48%, and the typical graduate earns $38,400 within 10 years of enrollment.

Fairmont State University is a public university in Fairmont, West Virginia, United States.

The numbers tell a mixed story here: at just $9,055/year after aid and only $12,500 in median debt at graduation, this is one of the most affordable college options you'll find anywhere. However, the 48% graduation rate and 64% freshman retention rate are real concerns — nearly half of students who start here don't finish, which is worth taking seriously before enrolling. Worth considering if cost is your top priority and you have a clear plan to stay on track, but look closely at support services and ask hard questions about why so many students leave.

Founded
1865
Setting
Distant town

Popular Programs

Health Professions29%
Business & Marketing9%
Social Sciences6%
Education6%
Psychology5%
Computer Science3%
Biological Sciences2%
Visual & Performing Arts1%

Percentage of degrees awarded. Source: College Scorecard.

Notable Alumni

Drew HankinsonHerbert Morrison

Source: Wikidata. Used for context only.

Admissions

SAT Scores

Average Composite993
Reading 75th %ile560
Math 75th %ile480

ACT Scores

Midpoint Composite20

Cost & Financial Aid

In-State Tuition
$8,454
Out-of-State Tuition
$18,372
Avg Net Price
$9,055
after aid

Financial Aid

Students receiving Pell Grants33%
Median debt at graduation$12,500

Full Cost

After Graduation

Graduation Rate
48%
within 6 years
Retention Rate
64%
freshmen returning
Earnings (10 yr)
$38,400
after enrollment
Median Debt
$12,500
at graduation

Will This School Pay Off?

Median Debt
$12,500
at graduation
Earnings (6 yr)
$30,500
after enrollment
Earnings (10 yr)
$38,400
after enrollment
Earnings-to-Debt Ratio: 3.1x

Strong return. Graduates earn well above their debt load.

Earnings data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. These are means across all graduates, not specific to any major.

Student Body

White87%
Black5%
Hispanic/Latino1%

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (2,690 undergraduates).

Contact & Location

Address

Fairmont State University

1201 Locust Ave

Fairmont, WV 26554-2470

View on Google Maps →

Other Schools in West Virginia

Browse all West Virginia schools →

Sources & Methodology

Data

Primary data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Accessed via automated sync. Latest values may come from different reporting years depending on the metric.

Contextual Enrichment

School overview from Wikipedia. Used for context only, not as a primary data source for admissions, cost, or outcomes claims.

Important Caveats
  • Earnings figures are institution-level averages, not major-specific.
  • Some metrics are based on Title IV financial aid recipients only.
  • Some values may be privacy-suppressed or rolled up by the Department of Education.
  • Contact the school directly for current admissions requirements and costs.
Trademarks

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