Acceptance Rate
98%
Avg. SAT
967
75th percentile
“A historic beacon in Montgomery, Alabama State University blends deep HBCU roots with a vibrant, close-knit campus experience.”
Montgomery, AL
Location
Midsize City
Campus Setting
Nestled in the heart of Montgomery, Alabama, Alabama State University (ASU) carries a powerful legacy as a historically Black college and university (HBCU), founded in 1867 as the Lincoln Normal School. Originally established to educate formerly enslaved individuals, ASU has evolved over more than 150 years into a public institution that remains deeply tied to its mission of access and empowerment. Its location in the cradle of the Civil Rights Movement adds a layer of historical weight—students walk the same streets where pivotal events unfolded, giving the campus a sense of purpose that’s hard to find elsewhere.
ASU is a place for students who crave a supportive, family-like environment where faculty and peers genuinely invest in their success. You’ll thrive here if you value community, are motivated to engage with history and culture, and seek a school that prioritizes personal growth over cutthroat competition. However, if you’re looking for a sprawling, resource-heavy campus with endless facilities or a highly selective academic atmosphere, ASU might feel a bit limited in scope or prestige compared to larger state universities.
The surrounding city of Montgomery offers a mix of Southern charm and historical significance, with landmarks like the Rosa Parks Museum just minutes away. Yet, the city isn’t a bustling metropolis, so you might find entertainment options somewhat modest compared to bigger urban centers. For students who appreciate a slower pace and a tight-knit feel, ASU’s setting and spirit create a unique home base to explore both personal and academic passions.
Photo Gallery
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Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Degree Levels Offered
Alabama State University shines in fields like education, business, and the sciences, with a particular strength in preparing future teachers through its College of Education, which has a long-standing reputation for producing skilled educators across the South. The university also offers robust programs in biology and chemistry, often serving as a pipeline for students aiming for careers in healthcare or research. You can expect a learning environment where professors prioritize mentorship, often knowing students by name and pushing them to think critically about their goals.
Class sizes at ASU tend to be on the smaller side for a public university, which means you’ll likely get more direct interaction with faculty than at larger institutions. However, introductory courses can still feel crowded, and resources for cutting-edge research or specialized facilities may not match those at bigger research universities. If you’re proactive and eager to build relationships with instructors, ASU’s academic culture can be a launchpad, though highly competitive or niche fields might require extra hustle to access top-tier opportunities.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
3,521 undergrad • 560 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
4%
Black / African American
89%
Hispanic / Latino
1%
Asian
<1%
Other / Multi-racial
6%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Montgomery, AL
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
Campus life at Alabama State University buzzes with a strong sense of pride and tradition, especially during events like the annual Turkey Day Classic, a historic football rivalry game that draws alumni and fans from across the region. Students here form tight bonds, often through Greek life, student organizations, or campus ministries, creating a social scene that feels more like an extended family than a collection of strangers. You’ll find plenty of ways to get involved, whether through music ensembles like the Mighty Marching Hornets band or community service initiatives that reflect ASU’s commitment to social impact.
Living in Montgomery means dealing with hot, humid summers and mild winters, which can shape how much time you spend outdoors. On-campus housing is available, but space can be tight, so some students opt for off-campus apartments, which are generally affordable compared to larger cities. While the social vibe is warm and inclusive, the campus and surrounding area might feel quiet for those used to constant activity, and the party scene is more subdued than at bigger universities, focusing instead on cultural and community events.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
Southwestern Athletic Conf.
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
No
Navy
No
Air Force
Yes
Veteran’s Programs Available
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Recognized student veteran organization
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
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Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
70%
4 Years Graduation Rate
22%
6 Years Graduation Rate
39%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$34,502
70% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at Alabama State University and return in the fall. 22% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 39% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
22%
4-5 years
17%
6-8 years
1%
Non-grad
60%
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Key Statistics
Type
Public
Tuition
$8,328
Acceptance
98%
Undergrads
3,521
4-Year Grad Rate
22%
Endowment
$119M
Montgomery, AL 36104-0271
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