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About

About James Madison University

public doctoral universityhealth sciences focusbusiness programshigh acceptance rate

James Madison University is a public research university in Harrisonburg, VA, known for its health sciences focus, business programs, and high acceptance rate. With an acceptance rate of 78%, Madison is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 4,863 students each year. Madison is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 1180–1330, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. Madison offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $6,578 per year; the sticker price of $46,214 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

James Madison University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

78%
Overall Accept Rate
1255
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 1180 – 1330 (test optional)

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ACTScore range: 24 – 29

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to James Madison University

The first 2 tips apply to all applicants. Your personalized strategy requires your profile — build your free list to unlock it.

Essay Strategy
JMU places moderate weight on essays, so focus yours on why a specific JMU program or college, such as the College of Business or the College of Health and Behavioral Studies, is the right fit for your goals rather than writing a general personal statement.
Demonstrated Interest
JMU does factor demonstrated interest into admissions decisions, so attending a virtual or in-person information session, visiting campus in Harrisonburg, or engaging with an admissions counselor at a college fair can meaningfully support your application.

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Financial Aid & Cost

What James Madison University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceAvg. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$46k/yr$11.4k
30k-48k~$46k/yr$13.0k
48k-75k~$46k/yr$16.5k
75k-110k~$46k/yr$22.3k
110k+~$46k/yr$30.1k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

81%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$57k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
17:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
19,512
Undergrad Enrollment

Student Body

Student body composition

Race & Ethnicity

72%White
9%Hispanic
6%Two or More Races
5%Asian
5%Black / African American
2%Unknown / Unreported
1%International
0%American Indian / AK Native
0%Native Hawaiian / Pacific Islander
Gender44% Men · 56% Women
Citizenship / Immigration Status99% Citizens and Immigrants · 1% International
Madison, Harrisonburg Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch