Acceptance Rate
73%
Avg. SAT
1340
75th percentile
“SEC flagship blending fierce Tiger spirit with land-grant strengths in agriculture, engineering, and coastal sciences.”
Baton Rouge, LA
Location
Midsize City
Campus Setting
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College, founded in 1860 on a former plantation site in Baton Rouge, originated as a military academy before becoming Louisiana's land-grant institution post-Civil War. It grew into a major public research university, emphasizing practical sciences alongside liberal arts, reflecting the state's agricultural roots and industrial evolution. The campus, with its live oaks, lakes, and ancient Indian mounds, fosters a distinctly Southern atmosphere.
LSU's personality is energetic and communal, defined by unyielding school pride and traditions like 'Geaux Tigers.' Outgoing students who enjoy big crowds, athletics, and social events thrive here, alongside those drawn to hands-on research in a large, diverse public university setting. Independent learners comfortable with big lectures and self-directed exploration fit well.
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Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Policy
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Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Available Online
Degree Levels Offered
As an R1 research university, LSU excels in engineering (especially petroleum), agriculture, veterinary medicine, coastal and environmental studies, and business through the E.J. Ourso College. The curriculum balances large introductory lectures with upper-level seminars and labs, supported by extensive undergrad research opportunities via programs like the Creative Research Scholars Initiative.
Notable offerings include the state's only veterinary school, a top-ranked law program, and unique centers for hurricane research and aquaculture, leveraging Louisiana's geography and economy.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
34,242 undergrad • 7,463 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
60%
Black / African American
18%
Hispanic / Latino
9%
Asian
4%
Other / Multi-racial
9%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Baton Rouge, LA
Varsity Athletics
Campus life pulses with SEC athletics, particularly football at the 102,000-seat Tiger Stadium, where massive tailgates draw national attention. About 20% of students join strong Greek life, while hundreds of clubs cover outdoors (Quadricamping), music, and service.
Baton Rouge's humid subtropical climate encourages lakeside activities, and proximity to New Orleans adds Mardi Gras vibes. The social scene mixes Southern hospitality with a party reputation, though efforts promote inclusivity amid a predominantly in-state student body.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
NCAA
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
No
Air Force
Yes
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Recognized student veteran organization
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
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
85%
4 Years Graduation Rate
51%
6 Years Graduation Rate
71%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$61,251
85% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College and return in the fall. 51% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 71% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
51%
4-5 years
20%
6-8 years
1%
Non-grad
28%
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Key Statistics
Type
Public
Tuition
$8,038
Acceptance
73%
Undergrads
34,242
4-Year Grad Rate
51%
Endowment
$668M
Baton Rouge, LA 70803-2750