AdmissionsOS Tennessee State University vs University of Memphis
| Tennessee State University | University of Memphis | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate lower = more selective | 70% | 72% |
| SAT range (mid 50%) | 880-1,050 | 915-1,180 |
| ACT range (mid 50%) | 16-21 | 18-24 |
| Average net price what students actually pay after aid | $15,796 | $12,397 |
| Sticker cost of attendance | $25,637 | $25,169 |
| Graduation rate | 34% | 51% |
| Retention rate | 34% | 77% |
| Undergraduates | 4,848 | 12,701 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 13:1 | 16:1 |
| Setting | Nashville, TN | Memphis, TN |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Application fee | $25 | $25 |
| Test policy | Required | Required |
Highlighted values mark the stronger figure on cost and outcomes. Verified for the 2025-2026 cycle.
Compare these in the interactive toolCommon questions
Is Tennessee State University or University of Memphis harder to get into?
Tennessee State University is more selective, with a 70% acceptance rate versus 72% at University of Memphis. Both should be treated as reaches unless your stats sit at or above the mid-50% range shown above.
Which is cheaper, Tennessee State University or University of Memphis?
University of Memphis has the lower average net price ($12,397 versus $15,796). Net price is what families actually pay after grants and scholarships, so it is a truer comparison than sticker price. Run each school's net price calculator for your own income.