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Shaw University

Raleigh, North Carolina · Private (nonprofit)

Jul 30Application deadline

FindU Grade

B-Value
N/ACampus
C-Academics
BAdmissions
B-Student Life
C+Overall

About

Shaw University is located in Raleigh, North Carolina. It is a private (nonprofit) institution. The university enrolls approximately 839 students.

shawu.edu
HBCU

Cost and aid

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$17,176
Out-of-state tuition$17,176
Room & board$8,940
Avg aid package$15,568
Students receiving aid65%
Pell grant recipients65%

Shaw University's tuition was $17,272 in 2024, reflecting a broader trend of rising operational costs in higher education. However, the university provides financial aid and scholarship assistance to students. Shaw University is committed to making education accessible, with 84% of the student body receiving Pell Grants.

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Admissions

Application info

Acceptance rate30%
Average GPA2.60
Student–faculty ratio11:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$25

Application dates

Regular DecisionJul 30

Shaw University has a moderately selective admission policy, with an acceptance rate ranging from 60 to 69%. The university considers entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. Shaw University welcomes international students and seeks to maintain its standards by attracting a similar level of academic talent each year.

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Academics

Graduation rate17%
Retention rate56%
Student–faculty ratio11:1
Full-time faculty48%

Shaw University offers a holistic approach to education, encouraging critical thinking and leadership skills. The university has a strong emphasis on liberal arts education and is known for its commitment to academic excellence and community service. With a student-faculty ratio of 10:1, Shaw provides a supportive and engaging environment.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$34,409
Job placement rate94%
Earn more than HS grad42%
Economic mobility287%
Loan default (3 yr)25%
Loan repayment (3 yr)17%

Shaw University prepares students for diverse career paths through various disciplines, including business, education, and the arts. The university emphasizes producing graduates who are socially responsible and ready to make a positive impact in their communities. Shaw's mission is to transform a diverse community of learners into future global leaders.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
839Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

BalancedGender ratio
Female 52%Male 48%
63% BlackRacial diversity
Black 63%Hispanic 4%White 3%Asian 1%Other 30%
Campus housingYes

Shaw University offers a vibrant campus culture with various clubs and organizations. Students can participate in academic societies, cultural groups, and the Student Government Association. Shaw University students' favorite campus traditions are University Convocation, Homecoming, and Honors Convocation.

Student reviews

Campus and vibes

Junior

This is my 3rd year at Shaw. I like it. I do not participate in the sports/games only because I am not into those things; however, I do enjoy the atmosphere and meeting new people.

Student

The only good thing about Shaw is its location — downtown Raleigh near NC State, with great nightlife on Glenwood Ave. But beyond that? Stay far away.

Student

being at shaw university is a interesting experience , it’s a small hbcu in the city and very quiet most days . it’s not highly recommended based on personal experiences but it’s not as bad . starting off with being on campus, our class sizes are around 20-30 students so it’s easier to learn visually and get help from professors. food isn’t as bad but wish they’ve done different stuff. partying isn’t really big on campus but we do have events we could attend to .

Student

Shaw University has given me the chance to advance in my career. I am able to work full time in my career and take my courses online as a full time student. I am excited to begin my spring semester!

Student

I have enjoyed going to Shaw University. My experience had been good so far. I have one more until I graduate. I wish student housing as better

Student

I have been at Shaw University for 3 years and I am currently on the softball team. Shaw University has been an experience that I cannot put into words alone. The people you will meet will change your life. The area will give you a sense of home and the education is the key to success.

Student

My experience at Shaw has been great so far. I haven’t had any real problems except for financial but other than that everything had been good.

Student

My experience has been a mix of rewarding opportunities and areas for growth. One of the aspects I appreciated most about Shaw was the sense of community and the university’s rich history as a cornerstone of HBCU culture. The professors were dedicated and approachable, often going out of their way to ensure that students understood the material and felt supported. Campus life offered a variety of activities and organizations, which helped me connect with peers and build lasting friendships.

Cost and value

Student

Looking back at my time at Shaw University, I can't help but feel like it just didn't live up to the hype. The tuition is super pricey, and to be real, I didn’t feel like I was getting my money’s worth.

About Shaw University

Shaw University is patrolled 24 hours a day by trained security personnel. The campus has emergency telephones and alarms for students to use at any time. The university also offers late-night transportation or safety escorts and utilizes 24-hour electronic surveillance cameras.

Shaw University offers several academic programs with particular strengths noted in Mass Communications, Biology, Criminal Justice, and Social Work. Students highlight hands-on experiences such as the MAPS program for science majors and accessible computer labs for study.

Shaw University welcomes international students, with 11% of the student population being international. The university's location in downtown Raleigh provides access to cultural resources and opportunities. Shaw University aims to create a welcoming environment for all members of the university community.

Endowment$13,780,704
Avg faculty salary$61,500

Shaw University FAQ

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Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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