Southern Adventist University

School Overview

Southern Adventist University is located in Collegedale, TN, 37315. The university is ranked #42 among National Universities by U.S. News & World Report. It offers programs at the bachelor’s degree level, serving students with a range of academic interests and career aspirations.

With an acceptance rate of 65%, Southern Adventist University offers a realistic pathway for students who have maintained a consistent academic record throughout high school. Successful applicants typically present SAT scores of 1020-1310 and ACT scores of 19-25.

With just 2,929 undergraduates, Southern Adventist University provides an intimate academic setting where small class sizes and close faculty mentorship are central to the student experience. The student-to-faculty ratio is 13:01, meaning professors are accessible for office hours, research mentorship, and one-on-one guidance. Approximately 58% of classes have fewer than 20 students, fostering the kind of seminar-style discussion and hands-on collaboration that deepens real understanding. The institution achieves a four-year graduation rate of 38%, a strong indicator that students receive the support they need to finish on time and move into their careers or further study.

The published tuition and fees are $27,300 per year. Room and board adds approximately $8,900. However, the average net price after financial aid is $23,439, which is the amount most aided students actually pay — often considerably less than the sticker price. For families evaluating the return on a college investment, these figures — combined with Southern Adventist University's academic reputation and graduate outcomes — provide a concrete basis for comparison.

Choosing a college is one of the most significant decisions a student and family will make. Southern Adventist University combines nationally recognized academic quality, a favorable student-to-faculty ratio, meaningful financial aid to create an environment where students can grow intellectually, build professional skills, and form lasting connections. We encourage prospective students to explore the detailed data on this page to determine whether Southern Adventist University is the right fit for their academic and personal goals.