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Norfolk State University

Norfolk, VA·Public·5,495 students
Last updated: March 22, 2026

A good fit for students who want accessible admissions and families looking for lower cost. graduation rate is below 40%. 62% of students receive Pell Grants — strong access mission.

87%
Accept
5,495
Students
$12,973
Net Price
33%
Grad Rate
$38,800
Earnings
10 yr
$17,277
Debt

About This School

Norfolk State University is a public institution located in Norfolk, Virginia with approximately 5,495 undergraduate students enrolled. Norfolk State University has an open or accessible admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 87%. The average net price after financial aid is $12,973 per year. The graduation rate is 33%, and the typical graduate earns $38,800 within 10 years of enrollment.

Norfolk State University (NSU) is a public historically black university in Norfolk, Virginia. It is a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and Virginia High-Tech Partnership.

The numbers tell a mixed story here: the affordable net price of about $13,000/year and an 87% acceptance rate make this an accessible option for students who need an open-door HBCU environment, but the 33% graduation rate is a serious concern — meaning most students who start here don't finish. If you do graduate, median earnings of $38,800 after 10 years are modest, though the relatively low debt load of $17,277 keeps the financial risk manageable.

Founded
1935
Setting
Midsize city

Popular Programs

Psychology14%
Business & Marketing13%
Health Professions10%
Social Sciences10%
Communications8%
Biological Sciences7%
Visual & Performing Arts4%
Computer Science4%

Percentage of degrees awarded. Source: College Scorecard.

Notable Alumni

J. B. SmooveDebbie DunnKyle O'QuinnBrian LewisTim Reid

Source: Wikidata. Used for context only.

Admissions

SAT Scores

Average Composite980
Reading 75th %ile575
Math 75th %ile525

ACT Scores

Midpoint Composite18

Cost & Financial Aid

In-State Tuition
$9,910
Out-of-State Tuition
$21,412
Avg Net Price
$12,973
after aid

Financial Aid

Students receiving Pell Grants62%
Median debt at graduation$17,277

Full Cost

After Graduation

Graduation Rate
33%
within 6 years
Retention Rate
72%
freshmen returning
Earnings (10 yr)
$38,800
after enrollment
Median Debt
$17,277
at graduation

Will This School Pay Off?

Median Debt
$17,277
at graduation
Earnings (6 yr)
$30,000
after enrollment
Earnings (10 yr)
$38,800
after enrollment
Earnings-to-Debt Ratio: 2.2x

Solid return. Earnings outpace debt, though major choice matters.

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%
Black84%
Hispanic/Latino5%

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (5,495 undergraduates).

Contact & Location

Address

Norfolk State University

700 Park Avenue

Norfolk, VA 23504-8000

View on Google Maps →

Other Schools in Virginia

Browse all 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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