James Madison University (JMU) is a highly selective public research university located in Harrisonburg, Virginia. With a strong reputation for academics, research, and student life, JMU attracts a diverse pool of undergraduate and graduate applicants each year.
Acceptance Rate
For the fall 2022 admissions cycle, JMU received a record 28,574 applications and admitted 7,653 students. This resulted in an acceptance rate of 26.7%, a slight decrease from the previous year’s rate of 27.3%. The university’s overall yield rate, or the percentage of admitted students who enrolled, was 30.2%.
Test Scores
JMU evaluates both SAT and ACT test scores as part of its admissions process. For the fall 2022 entering class, the average SAT score was 1290 and the average ACT score was 29.
| Test Score | JMU Average | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| SAT Total | 1290 | 1180 | 1400 |
| SAT Evidence-Based Reading and Writing | 620 | 570 | 670 |
| SAT Math | 670 | 590 | 730 |
| ACT Composite | 29 | 26 | 32 |
| ACT English | 29 | 25 | 33 |
| ACT Math | 29 | 25 | 33 |
| ACT Reading | 29 | 25 | 33 |
| ACT Science | 28 | 24 | 32 |
Student Profile
The JMU student body is highly diverse, with students representing all 50 states and over 90 countries. The university’s retention rate, which measures the percentage of first-year students who return for their second year, is 91.5%.
Admissions Process
JMU uses a holistic admissions process that considers a variety of factors, including academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and personal essays. The university does not have a minimum GPA requirement, but applicants with a GPA of 3.5 or higher typically have a stronger chance of admission.
Admissions Timeline
| Timeline Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | November 15th |
| Notification of Admission | March 1st |
| Deadline to Accept Admission | May 1st |
Strategies for Increasing Your Chances of Admission
- Maintain a strong academic record. This is the single most important factor in the admissions process. Strive for a high GPA and take challenging courses, especially in core subjects like math, science, and English.
- Prepare for standardized tests. The SAT and ACT are important standardized tests that are heavily weighted in the admissions process. Take practice tests and study materials to improve your scores.
- Participate in extracurricular activities. Extracurricular activities show colleges that you are a well-rounded individual with a variety of interests. Get involved in clubs, sports, or volunteer organizations that you are passionate about.
- Write a strong personal essay. The personal essay is your opportunity to tell colleges about your unique experiences, aspirations, and why you would be a good fit for their institution. Take your time crafting a well-written and memorable essay that highlights your strengths and goals.
- Get involved in your community. Community service is a great way to show colleges that you are committed to making a difference in the world. Volunteer your time at local organizations or participate in community service projects.
- Apply early. JMU has an early decision program, which allows you to apply in the fall and receive a decision by December 15th. If you are serious about attending JMU, consider applying early.
Conclusion
Admission to JMU is competitive, but it is possible to increase your chances of acceptance by following the strategies outlined above. By putting in the effort to maintain a strong academic record, prepare for standardized tests, participate in extracurricular activities, and write a strong personal essay, you can improve your chances of being admitted to this prestigious university.
