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Jackson State University

Jackson, MS·Public·4,769 students
Last updated: March 22, 2026

A good fit for students who want accessible admissions and students who prefer a mid-size campus. graduation rate is below 40%; earnings-to-debt ratio is tight. 68% of students receive Pell Grants — strong access mission.

91%
Accept
4,769
Students
$20,191
Net Price
32%
Grad Rate
$33,700
Earnings
10 yr
$24,751
Debt

About This School

Jackson State University is a public institution located in Jackson, Mississippi with approximately 4,769 undergraduate students enrolled. Jackson State University has an open or accessible admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 91%. The average net price after financial aid is $20,191 per year. The graduation rate is 32%, and the typical graduate earns $33,700 within 10 years of enrollment.

Jackson State University is a public historically black research university in Jackson, Mississippi. It is a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and classified among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity".

The numbers tell a mixed story here: a 91% acceptance rate and $20,191 average net price make this financially accessible, especially for students who need an affordable path to a degree, but a 32% graduation rate is a serious red flag that means most students who start here don't finish. The median earnings of $33,700 a decade out are modest, and with $24,751 in median debt at graduation, the return on investment is tight. Worth considering if you have a clear plan, strong self-discipline, and a specific reason to be here — like a program, scholarship, or community connection — but go in with eyes open about the completion challenge.

Founded
1877
Setting
Midsize city

Popular Programs

Education13%
Business & Marketing12%
Biological Sciences12%
Health Professions8%
Engineering6%
Communications5%
Psychology4%
Computer Science3%

Percentage of degrees awarded. Source: College Scorecard.

Notable Alumni

Cassandra WilsonLaphonza ButlerBennie ThompsonWalter PaytonJames MeredithRod PaigeTramell TillmanEmmelie Prophète

Source: Wikidata. Used for context only.

Admissions

SAT Scores

Average Composite974
Reading 75th %ile550
Math 75th %ile530

ACT Scores

Midpoint Composite18

Cost & Financial Aid

In-State Tuition
$9,090
Out-of-State Tuition
$10,110
Avg Net Price
$20,191
after aid

Financial Aid

Students receiving Pell Grants68%
Median debt at graduation$24,751

Full Cost

After Graduation

Graduation Rate
32%
within 6 years
Retention Rate
68%
freshmen returning
Earnings (10 yr)
$33,700
after enrollment
Median Debt
$24,751
at graduation

Will This School Pay Off?

Median Debt
$24,751
at graduation
Earnings (6 yr)
$27,800
after enrollment
Earnings (10 yr)
$33,700
after enrollment
Earnings-to-Debt Ratio: 1.4x

Worth scrutinizing. Median earnings relative to debt are tight.

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

Student Body

White2%
Black95%

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (4,769 undergraduates).

Contact & Location

Address

Jackson State University

1400 John R. Lynch Street

Jackson, MS 39217

View on Google Maps →

Other Schools in Mississippi

Browse all Mississippi 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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