Shepherd University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
Shepherd admits most applicants, so your bigger question is whether your academic profile puts you in a strong position to start well and stay on track. Since scores are required and SAT is the more common submission, aim for the upper half of the middle range, around 1050 to 1170 SAT, with 22 to 24 ACT as a comparable target.
⬡ LangSmith5bd2263b-022c-43c7-a346-fc97ed2429c0Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Shepherd University facts and stats
Shepherd University enrolls 3,032 undergraduate students in a rural campus setting. Shepherd has a 71% freshman retention rate, slightly above the national average of roughly 70%, and a 51% six-year graduation rate. The student-to-faculty ratio is 17:1. Shepherd is test-required for admissions.
⬡ LangSmith73594450-7459-4d6b-81ce-0c8c0360bbefShepherdstown, WV
How do your scores compare at Shepherd?
Key Shepherd University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
August 1
Early Action
November 15
Early Decision
Not offered
Priority Deadline
—
Financial Aid Priority
March 1
Test dates
August 22, 2026
Registration deadline: August 7, 2026
September 12, 2026
Registration deadline: August 28, 2026
October 3, 2026
Registration deadline: September 18, 2026
September 19, 2026
Registration deadline: August 14, 2026
October 17, 2026
Registration deadline: September 11, 2026
December 12, 2026
Registration deadline: November 6, 2026
Plan to take your first SAT or ACT by spring of junior year, then use the summer before senior year and fall for retakes. For Shepherd’s November 15 Early Action deadline, an October retake is likely the last fall test date that can arrive in time.
⬡ LangSmith8bff70b3-3b1a-437d-847c-57b5764ba2a7Want to improve your scores and unlock scholarships at Shepherd University?
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What you'll actually pay
Shepherd’s in-state tuition is $6,702, while out-of-state tuition is $15,774. About 41% of students receive aid, and the average merit award is $7,642. Submit the FAFSA by the March 1 priority deadline to be considered for financial aid.
⬡ LangSmitha37dcffd-b8cb-4c69-907c-6a55f57e6716
At Shepherd University, out-of-state tuition is $15,774, while in-state tuition is $6,702, with room and board adding $11,308. Financial aid can significantly change the final price, with 41% of students receiving aid and an average aid package of $15,275. Merit awards average $7,642, and graduates leave with an average debt of $28,764.
⬡ LangSmithbbf7882b-178e-4046-b82a-1bac6845b5e4Student life at Shepherd University
27% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: Guaranteed
Fraternities and sororities are active on campus.
Similar schools
Bluefield State University
Bluefield, WVAcceptance rate: 97.2%
SAT: 870–1080
ACT: 17–22
Concord University
Athens, WVAcceptance rate: 92.6%
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Fairmont State University
Fairmont, WVAcceptance rate: 98.6%
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Glenville State University
Glenville, WVAcceptance rate: 100%
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