
100 E. University, Magnolia, AR 72032, USA


Southern Arkansas University Main Campus holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, which is a widely recognized accrediting agency for institutions of higher education in the central United States. This accreditation ensures that the university meets established standards for academic quality, institutional integrity, and effectiveness in delivering education.
In addition to the overall institutional accreditation, several specific academic programs within Southern Arkansas University Main Campus carry specialized accreditations. These programmatic accreditations serve as an additional guarantee of educational rigor and professional preparation in their respective fields.
Prospective students may consider these accreditations important indicators of the university's commitment to maintaining high standards in both general education and specialized disciplines, which can influence transferability of credits, eligibility for federal financial aid, and recognition of degrees by employers and licensing boards.
Admission to Southern Arkansas University Main Campus requires applicants to have completed high school or to possess a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Prospective students must provide their secondary school GPA, class rank, and official academic records as part of their application. Submission of admission test scores is mandatory, including the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for international students. While recommendations, additional tests, and demonstration of competencies are advised, they are not compulsory.
Although the university does not offer open admission, completion of certain college programs is recommended before applying. The institution does not provide computer requirements or lease options, and it does not accept dual credit or college credit transfer except for Advanced Placement (AP) credits.
The acceptance rate stands at approximately 67%, placing it within the average range relative to other institutions. Most enrolled students present an ACT score, with the mean being 22, which falls in the lower 30th percentile nationally. SAT scores average 1035, also categorized in the lower 20th percentile. These figures suggest the university maintains moderate selectivity.
The application fee at Southern Arkansas University Main Campus is set to cover administrative costs associated with processing prospective students' materials. Applicants should anticipate a required payment, which is a standard part of the submission process. However, Southern Arkansas University Main Campus also recognizes that some prospective students may face financial hardships and provides fee waiver options to alleviate this burden.
The fee waiver process is available for eligible students who meet certain criteria, which typically include financial need or participation in specific programs aimed at increasing access to higher education. These waivers allow qualified applicants to submit their application without incurring the regular fee, ensuring that financial constraints do not impede access to the university.
Prospective students interested in obtaining a fee waiver are advised to consult the admissions office or official university resources for detailed instructions and eligibility requirements. The institution maintains a commitment to supporting applicants throughout the admission process by accommodating those with demonstrated need.
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus offers an ROTC branch unit on campus, providing students with the opportunity to participate directly in military training programs. This presence enables prospective students to pursue leadership development and military education while completing their degrees at the university.
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus welcomes transfer students during the fall, spring, and summer terms, providing multiple opportunities throughout the academic year. The university maintains a minimally difficult entrance standard for transfer applicants, making the process accessible to a wide range of students.
Transfer credits are accepted from previous institutions, including credits earned through standardized examinations. Specifically, Southern Arkansas University Main Campus recognizes credits from the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) in both subject-specific and general exams, as well as from the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) program. Moreover, the institution considers recommendation letters as part of the transfer application process.
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus offers several options for students interested in studying abroad, designed to enhance their global perspective and academic experience. The university provides faculty-led programs that typically last a few weeks during the summer, allowing students to earn credit while traveling to various international destinations. These short-term opportunities are structured around specific courses or themes, combining classroom instruction with cultural immersion.
In addition to faculty-led trips, Southern Arkansas University Main Campus participates in exchange programs and partnerships with universities abroad. These arrangements enable students to spend a semester or full academic year overseas, immersing themselves in different educational systems and cultures. The university also supports individual study abroad experiences by helping students find programs that align with their major and career goals.
Students are encouraged to work closely with the university's study abroad office to plan their international education experience. This office provides guidance on program options, application processes, credit transfer, and financial aid opportunities related to studying abroad.
Median composite SAT score
1035Median composite ACT score
22Percent of students submitting ACT scores
92%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
7%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RequiredSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RecommendedRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
RequiredTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
NoROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
NoPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
EasyGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer