Arkansas State University

Arkansas State University admits approximately 69.7% of applicants, meaning roughly 7 in 10 applicants receive an offer of admission. This places Arkansas State in the Moderately Selective (50-75%) category, making it accessible to most qualified applicants while maintaining some admission standards. The peer median admission rate of 84.6% indicates that Arkansas State is somewhat more selective than typical institutions in its comparison group, though still far more accessible than highly competitive universities.

This level of selectivity means that students with solid high school preparation and modest test scores have good admission prospects. Most applicants who meet basic academic requirements can expect admission consideration, though students should still demonstrate academic readiness through coursework and standardized testing. For prospective students, this admission rate suggests Arkansas State serves as a solid target school for students with average to above-average academic preparation. Students should approach their college list knowing that Arkansas State offers reasonable admission odds while maintaining academic standards that support degree completion.

Arkansas State University's published cost of attendance reaches $22,823 per year, including $13,826 in out-of-state tuition, $11,100 for room and board, and $1,250 for books and supplies. In-state students pay significantly less with tuition of $7,754. However, the average student pays just $13,085 after financial aid, representing savings of $9,738 from the sticker price.

This net price of $13,085 sits slightly above the peer median of $14,093, meaning Arkansas State costs about $1,008 less than comparable institutions. The university's position as well above average in affordability reflects this combination of moderate published costs and meaningful financial aid that reduces actual student expenses. Net price varies substantially by family income, ranging from $9,806 for the lowest-income families to $17,431 for the highest-income families, showing progressive aid distribution that supports access for students from diverse economic backgrounds.

Arkansas State University graduates demonstrate modest earnings growth over the post-graduation period. Median earnings increase from $38,944 six years after enrollment to $40,605 at eight years and $42,617 at ten years, representing 9.4% growth from the six-year mark. These outcomes are based on a ten-year cohort of 4,936 graduates, providing high confidence in the reported figures.

Earnings performance ranks in the 20th percentile nationally, indicating outcomes below typical four-year institutions. However, graduates earn around the national average relative to similar students, with a value-added impact of $-1,832, placing Arkansas State in the typical tier for earnings beyond expectations. Low-income graduates earn $32,200 annually, providing important economic mobility for students from lower-income backgrounds. Approximately 27.4% of graduates continue to graduate or professional study, indicating balanced preparation for both workforce entry and advanced education. The earnings distribution shows significant variation, with a 2.3:1 ratio between the 75th and 25th percentiles, reflecting differences in program choice and career trajectory.

Arkansas State University offers 20 bachelor's degree programs with federal earnings data for evaluation. Adult Health Nurse/Nursing represents the institution's strongest program by earnings, ranking #212 nationally and #3 in Arkansas, producing 205 graduates with median earnings of $64,306. This flagship program accounts for 13.8% of total program enrollment and delivers solid career preparation for health care professionals.

General Studies ranks #107 nationally and #1 in Arkansas, graduating 172 students with median earnings of $36,883 and a strong value score of 41.4. Business Administration and Management ranks #289 nationally but #2 in Arkansas, graduating 121 students with median earnings of $46,196. Agribusiness/Agricultural Business Operations stands out with the #24 national ranking and #1 state ranking, graduating 53 students with median earnings of $54,197 and an exceptional value score of 52.1. Exercise Science and Kinesiology ranks #132 nationally and #2 in Arkansas, graduating 79 students with median earnings of $43,288 and a strong value score of 37.6.