Francis Marion University
Florence, South Carolina 29506
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for health sciences — excellent value
Francis Marion University is a public institution in Florence with particular strength in health sciences and business. With an average SAT of 1039, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A mid-sized campus of 2.6K undergraduates with a 12:1 student-faculty ratio. The rural location provides a peaceful, focused academic environment.
43% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $43,888 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $13,451.
More About This School
Varsity Sports
History & Fun Facts
- •History The university dates back to 1957, when the University of South Carolina set up a freshman college in a basement room of the Florence County Library.
- •McNair signed into law an act creating Francis Marion College, effective July 1, 1970.
- •In 1992, Francis Marion College achieved university status and subsequently changed its name to Francis Marion University.
- •The Slave Houses, Gregg Plantation, located on the FMU campus, were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1039
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
57.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
0.6%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$15,617
Programs (43)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
69%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
16
Peer Average
13
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from SC state average