Chances of Getting Into Old Dominion University
Norfolk, Virginia • Public University • #263 National • Founded 1930
ODU Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
ODU SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About Old Dominion University
Old Dominion University is a public research university in Norfolk, Virginia, strategically located near the world's largest naval base, NASA Langley Research Center, and the Port of Virginia. ODU excels in maritime engineering, cybersecurity, and modeling & simulation — fields directly tied to its Hampton Roads location and the massive military and maritime presence in the region.
Top Programs
What Makes ODU Unique
- Located near the world's largest naval base (Naval Station Norfolk) and NASA Langley
- Top-ranked programs in maritime engineering and supply chain management
- Growing cybersecurity program tied to the region's defense and intelligence community
- Modeling and simulation programs rank among the best nationally
- Strong Division I athletics in the Sun Belt Conference
ODU Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
ODU Application Deadlines
How to Get Into ODU: Admission Tips
ODU has an accessible acceptance rate — a strong option for Virginia students
Apply by February 1 for fall — earlier is better for scholarship consideration
Test-optional — GPA is the primary academic factor
Highlight any military, ROTC, or defense-related interests given ODU's unique location
Engineering and cybersecurity are growing — mention them if they align with your goals
The Brutal Truth About ODU Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 78% acceptance rate, ODU rejected over 3,080 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At ODU, having a 3.35 GPA and 1105 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.
The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. ODU doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.
Bottom line: Apply if ODU genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 78%-acceptance-rate basket.
ODU Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at Old Dominion University?
Old Dominion University has an acceptance rate of 78% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 14,000+ applicants, approximately 3,200 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into ODU?
The average GPA of admitted students at Old Dominion University is 3.35. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.20, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for ODU?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted ODU students is 1020-1190. The average SAT score is 1105. For ACT, the range is 19-25 with an average of 22.
Is ODU hard to get into?
Yes, Old Dominion University is selective with an acceptance rate of just 78%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.
How much does ODU cost?
Tuition at Old Dominion University is $11,300 per year, with total cost of attendance at $26,500. However, 70% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $9,500+.
What are my chances of getting into ODU?
Your chances of getting into Old Dominion University depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 78% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.
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