Stephen F Austin State University admits 88.2% of applicants, meaning roughly 9 in 10 applicants receive an offer of admission. This places Stephen F Austin State University in the Open Access category, indicating broad accessibility for prospective students. The peer median admission rate of 84.6% shows that Stephen F Austin State University admits students at a slightly higher rate than similar institutions, though both figures reflect accessible admission policies. This level of accessibility means that most academically qualified students can expect admission, though completion of required coursework and meeting minimum academic standards remain important. The university's high acceptance rate reflects its mission to serve Texas students across diverse academic backgrounds and preparation levels. For students building college lists, Stephen F Austin State University represents a reliable option with predictable admission outcomes. Applicants should focus on demonstrating academic readiness and genuine interest rather than viewing admission as highly competitive. The combination of accessibility with solid post-graduation outcomes makes Stephen F Austin State University an attractive choice for students seeking economic mobility through higher education.
A directional estimate — not a prediction
Admitted students at Stephen F Austin State University typically score between 980 and 1160 on the SAT, with a median of 1074. Most enrolled students fall within this range, though scores outside these bounds are common and do not disqualify applicants. SAT Math scores range from 480 to 570, while SAT Verbal scores span 500 to 590, indicating solid academic preparation across both areas. ACT scores range from 18 to 25, with a median of 21, reflecting typical performance for students at accessible public institutions. The peer median SAT of 1090 shows that Stephen F Austin State University enrolls students with slightly lower test scores than similar institutions, though the 16-point difference is modest. These academic credentials indicate that students with above-average high school performance are well-positioned for admission. Students scoring below the 25th percentile ranges should not be discouraged from applying, as Stephen F Austin State University evaluates applications holistically. If your scores fall within the middle 50% ranges, you are academically competitive for admission and likely to succeed academically. Students should consider whether their academic profile aligns with these ranges when assessing fit and building their college application strategy.
Understanding institutional priorities and student support
Stephen F Austin State University enrolls 36.8% Pell-eligible students and 35.4% first-generation students, reflecting the university's commitment to serving students from diverse economic backgrounds. These shares indicate that more than one-third of students receive federal need-based aid or are the first in their families to attend college. Transfer students comprise 25.7% of new enrollment, showing significant pathways for students beginning at community colleges or other institutions. This composition demonstrates that Stephen F Austin State University actively serves students who might face barriers at more selective institutions. The substantial first-generation population suggests strong support systems for students navigating college independently. Pell eligibility indicates that many families qualify for significant federal financial aid, aligning with the university's accessible cost structure. Students from lower-income families should view the 36.8% Pell share as evidence that they will find peers with similar backgrounds and financial circumstances. First-generation students should know that more than one in three enrolled students share their experience of being the first to attend college. Transfer applicants should note the substantial 25.7% transfer enrollment, indicating established pathways and support for students transitioning from other institutions.
Given Stephen F Austin State University's 88.2% acceptance rate, admission is accessible for most academically qualified applicants. However, students seeking different options or comparing alternatives should consider these institutions with similar outcomes.
Strong options in your region with comparable outcomes.
71.3% of Stephen F Austin State University freshmen return for sophomore year, and 51.7% graduate within six years. While these retention and completion rates fall below the peer medians of 73.2% and 49.3% respectively, they reflect typical performance for accessible public institutions serving diverse student populations. Pell-eligible students graduate at 52.6%, indicating a positive 0.9 percentage point gap compared to the overall completion rate. This positive gap is noteworthy and suggests that lower-income students may receive effective institutional support. The small gap between overall and Pell completion rates indicates that economic background does not substantially hinder degree completion at Stephen F Austin State University. Students who gain admission can expect institutional support systems designed to promote persistence and graduation. Lower-income students should view the positive Pell completion gap as evidence of the university's effectiveness in supporting students from their backgrounds. Prospective students should understand that while completion rates are moderate, they reflect the university's mission to serve students who might not otherwise access higher education. The positive outcomes for Pell students particularly demonstrate Stephen F Austin State University's commitment to economic mobility.
Similar quality tier in Southwest (#10743 ranked)
Schools with comparable admission profiles — useful for building a balanced list.
Similar quality tier (#10717 ranked)
Similar quality tier (#10730 ranked)
Similar quality tier (#10716 ranked)
Similar quality tier (#10736 ranked)
Stronger graduate earnings at comparable price points.
Build a balanced list with schools at different selectivity and price points.
Explore More Schools