Ave Maria University
Ave Maria University is a private nonprofit university in Ave Maria, FL ranked #1450 nationally by EDsmart, earning an overall grade of C+, enrolling about 1,298 undergraduates, and with an acceptance rate near 41.4%. Students most often pursue Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing and Business Administration, Management and Operations.
Academically, students benefit from a 17:1 student-faculty ratio, 78.9% first-year retention, and 53.9% six-year graduation. Peer cohorts and advising networks provide scaffolding that keeps newcomers anchored during demanding semesters.
Families typically invest $24,860, about $7,862 more than the national median. EDsmart calculates return on investment at -56.2%, roughly 141.5 points below typical outcomes. Six years after enrolling, alumni report median earnings of $43,572. It's a compelling fit for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Ave Maria University has an acceptance rate of 41.4%, annual tuition of $30,198, average net price of $24,860, and a national rank of #1450 (Grade C+), with a 53.9% six-year graduation rate, about 1,298 undergraduates, and median earnings of $43,572 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Who is Ave Maria University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Ave Maria University graduates 53.9% of students within six years and keeps 78.9% of first-year students. Affordability earns a C+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Ave Maria University's net price calculator to get an estimate based on your family's financial situation.
Calculate Your Net Price →Total Degree Cost Summary
Annual Cost Comparison
Cost of Undergraduate Attendance
Costs based on full-time, first-time degree- or certificate-seeking undergraduates.
View cost of attendance line items
| Costs to Consider | Price |
|---|---|
| Tuition and Fees | $30,198 |
| Books and Supplies | $1,320 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $14,432 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $3,050 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $46,129 |
Tip: focus on the rows that match your living plan—commuters can swap in off-campus estimates while residential students should budget for housing, meals, and incidental fees.
Students Receiving Aid
Use these bars to gauge how many classmates rely on need-based dollars—lower Pell or loan shares may signal a wealthier student body or generous institutional grants.
EDsmart Insight: About 21.0% of Ave Maria University students receive Pell Grants — below the national average, highlighting ongoing affordability priorities.
Net Price by Family Income
Average annual net price after financial aid, based on family income. Your actual cost may vary depending on your specific financial situation.
Understanding These Numbers: Net price varies significantly by income level. Net prices range from $18,761 to $27,107 depending on family income. Use Ave Maria University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $24,088/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $27,107/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $43,572
- 10-Year Median Earnings $43,572
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $12,000
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 53.2%
- Employment Rate 74.7%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Ave Maria University graduates 6 years after enrollment, showing the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile. This illustrates the variation in outcomes across different majors and career paths.
Ave Maria University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Ave Maria University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Ave Maria University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Ave Maria University graduates earn $43,572 median, the -56.2% ROI suggests the investment may take longer to pay off. Consider your major choice and career goals when evaluating value.
Acceptance & Selectivity
Getting In
- SAT Evidence-Based Reading Not reported
- SAT Math Not reported
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite Not reported
- SAT & ACTNot required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 1,298
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 78.9%
- Graduation Rate 53.9%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 17:1
How to Get Into Ave Maria University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Ave Maria University requires strong academic performance. Aim for test scores within the reported ranges and maintain a competitive GPA. Most admitted students rank in the top 10% of their high school class.
2. Build a Strong Application: Beyond test scores, focus on crafting compelling essays, securing strong letters of recommendation, and highlighting extracurricular activities that demonstrate leadership and commitment.
3. Understand Selectivity: With an acceptance rate of 41.4%, Ave Maria University is moderately selective. Consider applying early decision if available, as early applicants often have higher acceptance rates.
4. Financial Planning: Review the net price calculator and financial aid options early. Many students receive significant aid, making the actual cost lower than the sticker price.
Tip: Contact the admissions office directly for the most current application requirements, deadlines, and any special programs (like early decision or early action) that might improve your chances.
EDsmart Insight: Ave Maria University accepts 41.4% of applicants, making it moderately selective. Focus on strong academics, meaningful extracurriculars, and compelling essays to stand out.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Ave Maria University undergraduates. Business Administration, Management and Operations, Psychology, General, and Theological and Ministerial Studies draw the most students.
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 10.9%
- Psychology, General 9.5%
- Theological and Ministerial Studies 7.7%
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing 7.7%
- Communication and Media Studies 7.3%
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences 6.8%
See more majors
- Biology, General 5.5%
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, Gen 5.5%
Highest Earning Programs
Median earnings five years after graduation for each program. These figures help illustrate ROI by field of study and degree level.
Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degrees)
- 1. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $69,058
- 2. Business Administration, Management and Operations $54,384
- 3. Biology, General $48,884
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Psychology, General $41,989
- 5. Communication and Media Studies $36,842
- 6. Theological and Ministerial Studies $26,924
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing grads earn $69,058—156% more than Theological and Ministerial Studies ($26,924). Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Ave Maria University. Below are the most popular options based on the number of recent graduates, followed by a quick look at the breadth of online offerings by degree level.
Source: U.S. Department of Education – College Scorecard
Most Popular Online Degrees
- Psychology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 21 graduates)
- Theological and Ministerial Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 17 graduates)
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degree, 17 graduates)
- Communication and Media Studies (Bachelor's Degree, 16 graduates)
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences (Bachelor's Degree, 15 graduates)
What This School Offers Online, at a Glance
College Scorecard flags the following online degree and certificate programs for this institution. Expand each credential level to view the complete list of available subjects.
Online Bachelor's Degrees (29 programs)▼
- Psychology, General
- Theological and Ministerial Studies
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Communication and Media Studies
- Physiology, Pathology and Related Sciences
- Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General
- Biology, General
- Economics
- Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology
- Accounting and Related Services
- Political Science and Government
- Music
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Marketing
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Philosophy
- History
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Literature
- Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology
- International Business
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Area Studies
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 1,298
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 47.0%
- Female Students 53.0%
- Caucasian 69.5%
- Asian 4.7%
- Hispanic 15.0%
- Black 2.9%
- Pell Grant Recipients 21.0%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Ave Maria University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Ave Maria University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Ave Maria University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Ave Maria University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: About 21.0% receive Pell Grants, below the national average of 38%, suggesting a wealthier student body or generous institutional aid.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Ave Maria University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at a similar rate as higher-income students, indicating adequate institutional support for all economic backgrounds.
Compare graduation rates by race/ethnicity
Graduation Rates by Race/Ethnicity
Six-year graduation rates for different demographic groups at Ave Maria University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Ave Maria University offers a private university experience at a regional scale, combining smaller class sizes with -56.2% ROI. Ranked #1450 nationally, the institution balances personalized attention against higher costs than public alternatives.
The $24,860 annual net price is significantly higher than public universities, offset somewhat by $43,572 median earnings. With 53.9% graduating within six years and 78.9% returning for sophomore year, outcomes reflect the personalized support typical of smaller private institutions.
Private University Value: Ave Maria University's Positioning
With a C+ grade and #1450 ranking, Ave Maria University competes in the crowded regional private university market.
The Private University Premium: At $24,860 annually, Ave Maria University charges more than public alternatives but typically offers smaller classes, more personalized advising, and tighter-knit campus communities. The 78.9% retention rate suggests students value this environment.
Who Benefits Most: Students who thrive in smaller, more intimate academic settings. Those seeking specific programs or values-based education aligned with the institution's mission. Students who receive merit scholarships that bring costs below $17,402 achieve particularly strong value.
Cost-Benefit Reality: The -56.2% ROI and $43,572 median earnings don't always justify the premium over public universities. Students paying full price should compare whether the personalized experience warrants $14,860+ in additional annual costs over state flagships.
Competitive Standing: Ave Maria University ranks #1450 of 6101 institutions, with 1255 schools achieving higher ROI. For students offered substantial merit aid or seeking specific programs unavailable at public universities, the value proposition strengthens significantly.
Key Takeaways
- 53.9% six-year graduation rate sits 8.6 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 78.9% first-year retention is 2.1 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- -56.2% return on investment is 141.5 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $43,572 run about 0% lower than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $24,860 is roughly $7,463 higher than the national median of $17,397.
Helpfulness for Students
- 17:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 78.9% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 74.7% employment rate within three years sits 6.5 points above national outcomes.
- Average net price of $24,860 is about $7,463 higher than comparable schools, so scholarship planning is key.
- Pell participation at 21.0% trails the national share by 18.1 points, so equity work remains important.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Located in Ave Maria, FL, Ave Maria University operates as a private nonprofit university and receives a C+ from EDsmart. It appears at #1450 in EDsmart's national list Grades by category break down as Completion B, Support B-, Career Outcomes B-, and Affordability C+.
Grades are assigned relative to EDsmart's national bachelor's cohort using standardized outcomes (2026 methodology); they reflect how a school compares to peers, not a fixed percentage of a raw point total.
About 78.9% of first-year students return, and roughly 53.9% finish within six years. EDsmart calculates the ROI at -56.2%, offering a quick value checkpoint.
Why it matters: this snapshot shows how likely you are to stay on track academically and whether the outcomes justify the price tag. Letter grades summarize cohort-relative performance—not a single exam-style score.
EDsmart Financial Snapshot
Families pay about $24,860 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $46,129.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $21,269 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $12,000 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 21.0% of students receive Pell Grants, giving a snapshot of the campus income mix.
Why it matters: lining up sticker price, aid, and typical debt helps you stress-test the budget before you commit.
EDsmart Career Snapshot
Graduates report median earnings of about $43,572 six years after entry. This is roughly 0% below typical U.S. college outcomes.
The three-year employment rate is close to 74.7%.
Plan around an ROI of about -56.2% according to the Scorecard data.
Why it matters: pairing median earnings with employment rates gives you a sense of payback time after graduation.
EDsmart Admissions Snapshot
41.4% of applicants receive offers, so preparation and fit matter.
The admissions team encourages students to highlight academic strengths through transcripts, essays, and recommendations.
Prospective students can apply early for priority review and lean on the Ave Maria University admissions site for deadlines, visit options, and counselor contacts.
Why it matters: knowing the admit rate and application expectations lets you map out testing, essays, and deadlines with less stress.
Your Decision Toolkit
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ave Maria University's acceptance rate?
Ave Maria University's acceptance rate is 41.4%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Ave Maria University cost?
At Ave Maria University, listed tuition and fees are $30,198 per year, and the average net price after aid is $24,860. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Ave Maria University's ranking?
Ave Maria University ranks #1450 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of C+, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Ave Maria University's graduation rate?
At Ave Maria University, the six-year graduation rate is 53.9%, and first-year retention is 78.9%.
What are Ave Maria University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Ave Maria University report median earnings of $43,572 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Ave Maria University's student population?
Ave Maria University enrolls about 1,298 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Ave Maria, FL 34142-9505
- Website www.avemaria.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$9.0M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate39.4%