Georgia State University
Georgia State University has an acceptance rate of 55.4%, annual tuition of $8,664, average net price of $15,931, and a national rank of #1099 (Grade B-), with a 53.1% six-year graduation rate, about 26,623 undergraduates, and median earnings of $37,844 six years after enrollment. Figures come from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and EDsmart's 2026 rankings.
Georgia State University is a public university in Atlanta, GA. Students most often pursue Computer Science and Computer and Information Sciences.
Inside the classroom, students benefit from a 25:1 student-faculty ratio, and 79.9% first-year retention. Faculty pair challenging syllabi with intentional mentoring so learners keep momentum even as expectations rise.
EDsmart calculates return on investment at -40.6%, roughly 125.9 points below typical outcomes. Expect the strongest outcomes for students who appreciate an encouraging campus with room to explore.
Who is Georgia State University Best For?
A quick look at who tends to feel most at home here based on outcomes and campus context.
EDsmart Scores Summary
Georgia State University graduates 53.1% of students within six years and keeps 79.9% of first-year students. Affordability earns a B+ compared with similar schools.
How we calculate this →Cost & Financial Aid
Quick Answers
The costs shown are averages. Use Georgia State 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 | $8,664 |
| Books and Supplies | $2,000 |
| On-Campus Room and Board | $13,392 |
| On-Campus Other Expenses | $5,110 |
| Total On-Campus Cost | $28,241 |
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 50.7% of Georgia State University students receive Pell Grants — well above 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 $13,787 to $20,305 depending on family income. Use Georgia State University's net price calculator for a personalized estimate.
If your family earns $75K-$110K: Expect to pay around $19,390/year
If your family earns $110K+: Expect to pay around $20,305/year
See all income brackets →ROI & Career Outcomes
- 6-Year Median Earnings $37,844
- 10-Year Median Earnings $37,844
- Average Years to Graduate 4.5 years
- Average Student Debt $11,750
- Repayment Rate (3yr) 44.4%
- Employment Rate 82.1%
Graduate Earnings Distribution
Earnings range for Georgia State 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.
Georgia State University vs. National Average
Comparison of key performance metrics showing how Georgia State University's outcomes compare to the national average across earnings, graduation rates, retention, ROI, and employment. This contextualizes Georgia State University's performance within the broader higher education landscape.
EDsmart Insight: While Georgia State University graduates earn $37,844 median, the -40.6% 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 480-590
- SAT Math 460-590
- SAT Writing Not reported
- ACT Composite 19-26
- SAT & ACT Required
- Undergraduate Enrollment 26,623
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Retention Rate 79.9%
- Graduation Rate 59.2%
- Student-Faculty Ratio 25:1
How to Get Into Georgia State University
1. Meet Academic Requirements: Georgia State 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 55.4%, Georgia State University is relatively open. 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: With a 55.4% acceptance rate, Georgia State University is more accessible than highly selective schools. Meeting the test score ranges and maintaining a solid GPA significantly improves admission chances. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 940 and 1180 on the SAT.
Academic Programs
Undergraduate Program Distribution
Breakdown of the most popular majors and fields of study among Georgia State University undergraduates. Psychology, General, Biology, General, and Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other draw the most students.
- Psychology, General 9.0%
- Biology, General 6.1%
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other 5.4%
- Computer and Information Sciences, General 4.9%
- Computer Science 4.9%
- Marketing 4.9%
See more majors
- Business Administration, Management and Operations 4.4%
- Political Science and Government 4.2%
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. Computer Science $105,149
- 2. Computer and Information Sciences, General $86,056
- 3. Insurance $85,608
Show additional high-earning majors
- 4. Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions $82,922
- 5. Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods $81,903
- 6. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $81,885
- 7. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing $81,487
- 8. Finance and Financial Management Services $76,480
- 9. Business/Managerial Economics $74,505
- 10. Economics $72,816
Graduate Programs (Master's, Doctoral, Professional)
- 1. Real Estate (Master's Degree) $141,181
- 2. Computer and Information Sciences, General (Master's Degree) $129,650
- 3. Educational Administration and Supervision (Doctoral Degree) $129,220
Show additional graduate majors
- 4. Business/Commerce, General (Master's Degree) $126,569
- 5. Health and Medical Administrative Services (Master's Degree) $123,490
- 6. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Master's Degree) $115,694
- 7. Taxation (Master's Degree) $111,795
- 8. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degree) $110,850
- 9. Finance and Financial Management Services (Master's Degree) $108,935
- 10. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research & Clinical Nursing (Graduate/Professional Certificate) $107,220
Program Choice Matters: Undergraduate: Computer Science grads earn $105,149—44% more than Economics ($72,816). Graduate: Real Estate programs lead with $141,181 median earnings. Your program and degree level choice significantly impact career earnings.
Online Degrees & Distance Learning
College Scorecard reports fully online programs for Georgia State 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
- Biology, General (Bachelor's Degree, 328 graduates)
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other (Bachelor's Degree, 287 graduates)
- Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degree, 263 graduates)
- Computer Science (Bachelor's Degree, 260 graduates)
- Business Administration, Management and Operations (Bachelor's Degree, 233 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 (45 programs)â–¼
- Biology, General
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Computer Science
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Film/Video and Photographic Arts
- Journalism
- Accounting and Related Services
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Sociology
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Economics
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- English Language and Literature, General
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Public Health
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Chemistry
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Communication and Media Studies
- History
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- Insurance
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Mathematics
- Music
- Public Policy Analysis
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Anthropology
- Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Philosophy
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Real Estate
- General Sales, Merchandising and Related Marketing Operations
- Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Services
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- American Sign Language
- Physics
- Special Education and Teaching
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Geography and Cartography
Online Master's Degrees (58 programs)â–¼
- Business/Commerce, General
- Public Health
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Accounting and Related Services
- Special Education and Teaching
- Computer Science
- Social Work
- Biology, General
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other
- Public Administration
- Applied Mathematics
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Marketing
- Economics
- Communication and Media Studies
- Health and Medical Administrative Services
- Music
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Mathematics
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Philosophy
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- International Business
- Chemistry
- Psychology, General
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, General
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Anthropology
- Fine and Studio Arts
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Gerontology
- English Language and Literature, General
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
- Religion/Religious Studies
- Physics
- Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management
- Sociology
- History
- Social and Philosophical Foundations of Education
- Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies
- Business/Managerial Economics
- Operations Research
- Insurance
- Human Resources Management and Services
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Geography and Cartography
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Accounting and Computer Science
- Area Studies
Online Doctoral Degrees (36 programs)â–¼
- Biology, General
- Psychology, General
- Chemistry
- English Language and Literature, General
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Economics
- Educational Administration and Supervision
- Business/Commerce, General
- History
- Communication and Media Studies
- Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Neurobiology and Neurosciences
- Mathematics and Statistics, Other
- Curriculum and Instruction
- Computer Science
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Public Health
- Health and Physical Education/Fitness
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Political Science and Government
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Accounting and Related Services
- Sociology
- Physics
- Educational/Instructional Media Design
- Education, General
- Criminal Justice and Corrections
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Finance and Financial Management Services
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Special Education and Teaching
- Public Policy Analysis
- Insurance
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Real Estate
- Marketing
Online Graduate/Professional Certificates (27 programs)â–¼
- Specialized Sales, Merchandising and Marketing Operations
- Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
- Public Health
- Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology
- Linguistic, Comparative, and Related Language Studies and Services
- Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
- Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research
- Geography and Cartography
- Student Counseling and Personnel Services
- Music
- Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies
- Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other
- International and Comparative Education
- Area Studies
- Urban Studies/Affairs
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
- Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods
- Social Work
- Social Sciences, Other
- Real Estate
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods
- Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations
- Bioethics/Medical Ethics
- Applied Mathematics
- Anthropology
Online Undergraduate Certificates & Diplomas (16 programs)â–¼
- Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language
- Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Geography and Cartography
- East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Natural Resources Conservation and Research
- Hospitality Administration/Management
- Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences
- General Sales, Merchandising and Related Marketing Operations
- Computer Science
- Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics
- American Sign Language
- Engineering-Related Fields
- Data Analytics
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Computer Software and Media Applications
Online First Professional Degrees (3 programs)â–¼
- Law
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions
- Business Administration, Management and Operations
Student Demographics
Student Population
- Total Undergraduate Enrollment 26,623
- Full-Time Students 95.0%
- Part-Time Students 5.0%
- Male Students 40.8%
- Female Students 59.2%
- Caucasian 15.4%
- Asian 16.4%
- Hispanic 15.0%
- Black 43.4%
- Pell Grant Recipients 50.7%
Racial & Ethnic Diversity
Undergraduate student body composition by racial and ethnic background. This reflects Georgia State University's commitment to diversity and inclusion in admissions.
Gender Distribution
Gender breakdown of Georgia State University's undergraduate population. The university maintains a roughly balanced gender distribution across its student body.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Georgia State University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong 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 Georgia State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
EDsmart Insight: Georgia State University has a diverse student body, with 15.4% identifying as White. 50.7% of students receive Pell Grants, well above the national average, indicating strong support for low-income students.
Graduation Rate Equity Analysis
How well does Georgia State University support students from different economic backgrounds?
What this means: Lower-income students (Pell Grant recipients) graduate at nearly the same rate as higher-income students, indicating strong 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 Georgia State University, compared to national averages. This shows whether the institution supports all students equitably.
Our Take
Georgia State University serves as an affordable university for students seeking quality education without elite university costs. Ranked #1099 nationally with ROI data not available, the institution balances practical outcomes with budget-friendly pricing.
At $15,931 annually, students gain access to career-focused programs leading to $37,844 median earnings. The 53.1% six-year graduation rate reflects reasonable completion metrics for a university. While 79.9% retention suggests adequate student support.
University Value: Georgia State University's Strengths
Ranked #1099 with a B- grade, Georgia State University prioritizes accessibility and local career connections over national prestige.
Primary Strengths: Universitys like Georgia State University excel at providing affordable education ($15,931 annually) with strong local employer relationships. Many programs emphasize practical skills and internships within the regional economy.
Best For: Students planning to work in the region after graduation benefit from established employer connections. Adult learners and part-time students appreciate flexible scheduling. First-generation students and budget-conscious families gain degrees without overwhelming debt.
Honest Assessment: Georgia State University's 79.9% retention and 53.1% six-year graduation rate trail elite universities but align with typical university performance. Career outcomes ($37,844 median earnings) reflect regional job markets more than national opportunities.
Value Verdict: For students committed to regional careers, Georgia State University and $15,931 cost deliver solid value. Those seeking national job mobility or prestigious credentials should compare against flagship state universities or targeted private scholarships.
Key Takeaways
- 53.1% six-year graduation rate sits 9.4 points below the national 62.5% benchmark.
- 79.9% first-year retention is 3.1 points above the national norm of 76.8%.
- -40.6% return on investment is 125.9 points below the national 85.3% benchmark.
- Median earnings of $37,844 run about 13% lower than national outcomes six years after enrollment.
- Average net price of $15,931 is roughly $1,466 lower than the national median of $17,397.
Helpfulness for Students
- 25:1 student-faculty ratio keeps mentorship close and courses discussion-sized.
- 79.9% first-year retention shows students stay engaged after the first year.
- 82.1% employment rate within three years sits 13.9 points above national outcomes.
- Budget carefully for clinical travel, off-campus housing, and practicum fees to avoid surprise costs.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
- Compare aid offers from nearby public universities to weigh the premium for smaller classes.
EDsmart Expert Analysis
Located in Atlanta, GA, Georgia State University operates as a public university and receives a B- from EDsmart. It is currently ranked #1099 nationally Category results include Completion (B), Support (C), Career Outcomes (B-), and Affordability (B+).
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.
79.9% of learners come back after year one while 53.1% complete the degree within six years. The reported ROI is -40.6%, a figure families can weigh against cost and aid details above.
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 $15,931 on average after aid, compared with a published cost near $28,241.
Institutional and federal aid lower costs by roughly $12,310 per year.
Graduates leave with a median of $11,750 in federal loans, which lines up with national norms.
About 50.7% 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
Median earnings come in near $37,844 six years after enrollment. Compared with the national median, that's 13% lower.
Roughly 82.1% of graduates are employed three years out.
Plan around an ROI of about -40.6% 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
55.4% 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 Georgia State 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 Georgia State University's acceptance rate?
Georgia State University's acceptance rate is 55.4%, based on U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard admissions data.
How much does Georgia State University cost?
At Georgia State University, listed tuition and fees are $8,664 per year, and the average net price after aid is $15,931. Use the net price calculator on this page for a personalized estimate.
What is Georgia State University's ranking?
Georgia State University ranks #1099 nationally in EDsmart's 2026 college rankings with an overall grade of B-, based on completion, affordability, support, and career outcomes.
What is Georgia State University's graduation rate?
At Georgia State University, the six-year graduation rate is 53.1%, and first-year retention is 79.9%.
What are Georgia State University's job outcomes?
Graduates of Georgia State University report median earnings of $37,844 six years after enrollment, according to College Scorecard federal outcome data. Outcomes vary by major.
What is Georgia State University's student population?
Georgia State University enrolls about 26,623 undergraduate students, per College Scorecard enrollment data.
Contact Information
- Address Atlanta, GA 30303-3083
- Website www.gsu.edu
- Net Price Calculator Calculate Your Cost
- Financial AidView Financial Aid Information
- AccreditationSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC)
- Endowment$241.7M
- Transfer Enrollment Rate25.3%