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George Mason University and Norfolk State University are both public institutions — George Mason University in Fairfax, VA and Norfolk State University in Norfolk, VA. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Fairfax, VA · Public
Acceptance rate: 87.5%
Undergrad enrollment: 27,752
Tuition: $38,688/year
Student-faculty ratio: 16.0:1
Graduation rate: 67.8%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Computer science, Security and law enforcement
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Fairfax, VA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Computer science.
Norfolk, VA · Public
Acceptance rate: 87.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 5,392
Tuition: $21,682/year
Student-faculty ratio: 15.0:1
Graduation rate: 38.5%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Health professions, Psychology
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Norfolk, VA with published program strength in Business and marketing and Health professions.
| Factor | George Mason University | Norfolk State University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 87.5% | 87.8% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 1160–1360 |
| 823–1030 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 25–30 | 16–22 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 27,752 | 5,392 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $38,688/year | $21,682/year |
| Average net price after aid | $17,915 | $15,282 |
| Graduation rate | 67.8% | 38.5% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $76,343 | $44,666 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 16.0:1 | 15.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Fairfax, VA | Norfolk, VA |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Computer science, Security and law enforcement | Business and marketing, Health professions, Psychology |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (87.5% vs 87.8%). Norfolk State University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($15,282 vs $17,915). George Mason University reports the higher graduation rate (67.8% vs 38.5%). George Mason University is the larger undergraduate campus (27,752 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between George Mason University and Norfolk State University
George Mason University has an acceptance rate of 87.5%; Norfolk State University is around 87.8%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
George Mason University tuition is $38,688/year. Norfolk State University is $21,682/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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