
Southern Arkansas University (SAU), located in Magnolia, Arkansas, is a public institution known for its accessible undergraduate programs. For the most recent admission cycle (Class of 2028), SAU reported an overall acceptance rate of approximately 62.6%, based on historical data and trends from the university’s admissions profile. This rate reflects a moderately selective admissions process, influenced by factors such as the size of the applicant pool, regional demand for programs, and the university’s commitment to accessibility. While SAU does not always publish detailed admission statistics for every cycle, historical data from sources like the Common Data Set and the official admissions website (saumag.edu) provide a reliable foundation for understanding selectivity.
Over the past few years, Southern Arkansas University’s acceptance rate has remained relatively stable, hovering between 60% and 65%, indicating consistent selectivity rather than increasing competitiveness. Unlike more selective institutions, SAU does not emphasize early action or decision as a significant factor in admissions outcomes. International student admissions may face slightly lower acceptance rates due to additional requirements, though the university actively encourages global diversity. Compared to peer institutions in the region, such as University of Central Arkansas or Arkansas State University, SAU’s selectivity is similar, with acceptance rates in the moderate range of 60–70%. This positions SAU as an accessible option for students seeking a balance of academic opportunity and admission likelihood in the southern United States.