
600 Park Street, Hays, KS 67601-4099, USA


Fort Hays State University holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring that it meets rigorous standards for quality and effectiveness in higher education. This accreditation affirms that the university's academic programs, faculty qualifications, and institutional resources meet established criteria for student learning and institutional improvement.
The university also possesses program-specific accreditations that validate the quality of its individual academic offerings, which is an important consideration for students aiming to pursue professional credentials in specialized fields. Such accreditations are often recognized by employers and professional licensing bodies, enhancing graduates' career prospects.
Prospective students should consider these accreditations as indicators of the university's commitment to maintaining educational standards, which supports transferability of credits and eligibility for federal financial aid. Accreditation plays a crucial role in assuring that the educational experience at Fort Hays State University aligns with nationwide expectations for higher education institutions.
Fort Hays State University has a selective admission policy that does not offer open admission. Prospective students must hold a General Educational Development (GED) certificate or equivalent high school completion to be considered for enrollment. While the university recommends submitting secondary school rank, recommendations, and demonstration of competencies, these are not strictly required for admission.
The university requires all international applicants to submit TOEFL scores as part of the application process. Additionally, other test scores beyond TOEFL are recommended but not mandatory. Although the availability of data on the necessity of computers for the application process or leasing options is not provided, applicants can receive credit for prior academic work, including Advanced Placement (AP) credits. Dual credit is not accepted for admission purposes.
Regarding standardized tests, Fort Hays State University reports that 91% of enrolled students submitted ACT scores, with most students scoring between 17 and 29. SAT score submission is less common, with about 5% of enrolled students providing these scores. Due to the high acceptance rate of approximately 92%, the university tends to admit a broad range of applicants, offering opportunities to many who meet the basic credential requirements.
Fort Hays State University charges an application fee for prospective students seeking admission. This fee is required to process the application materials and is a standard part of the university's enrollment procedure. However, the university offers fee waivers under specific circumstances, primarily aimed at reducing financial barriers for eligible applicants.
The fee waiver options typically apply to students who demonstrate financial need or participate in certain programs that support college admissions. Prospective students should check the university's official admissions guidelines or contact the admissions office directly to determine their eligibility for a waiver. It is important to note that requirements for fee waivers may include submission of documentation or confirmation of participation in qualifying programs or initiatives.
Applicants planning to request a fee waiver should prepare their materials early to ensure the waiver is processed in time for application deadlines. While the base fee is standard, the availability of waivers reflects Fort Hays State University's commitment to accessibility in higher education.
Fort Hays State University offers Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) opportunities designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the United States military. Although the university itself does not host an on-campus ROTC program, students interested in pursuing ROTC can participate through cross-enrollment agreements with nearby institutions that provide Army ROTC programs. This arrangement allows Fort Hays State University students to receive military training, leadership development, and scholarship opportunities while completing their academic studies at Fort Hays State University.
Fort Hays State University welcomes transfer students during the fall, spring, and summer terms. Prospective students can transfer credits, as the institution accepts prior college coursework. However, specific details regarding credit acceptance through CLEP or DANTES examinations are not available. Transfer applicants should consider that the university's policies on accepting recommendations or Excelsior College credits have not been disclosed publicly.
Fort Hays State University offers a diverse range of study abroad options designed to enrich the academic and cultural experiences of its students. These programs vary in duration and focus, allowing students to choose opportunities that best align with their educational goals and personal interests.
Students can participate in short-term faculty-led programs, which typically span a few weeks and are centered around specific disciplines or themes. These intensive courses provide immersive learning experiences while traveling abroad under direct faculty supervision.
In addition to short-term programs, Fort Hays State University facilitates semester- or year-long exchanges and study abroad opportunities in partnership with international institutions. These longer programs enable students to fully engage in another academic environment, often earning credits transferable to their degree.
The university also encourages involvement in service-learning abroad trips that combine community service with cultural immersion. These projects aim to foster global awareness and social responsibility while benefiting host communities.
Overall, the study abroad options at Fort Hays State University are structured to accommodate various academic schedules and interests, helping students gain valuable international experience.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
91%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
5%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
Data not availableComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
Data not availableSecondary school GPA
Data not availableSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
Data not availableCompletion of college-preparatory program
Data not availableRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
Data not availableOff-campus study
Data not availableStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
Data not availableGenerally accepts credits
Data not availableAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer