Jackson State University is making headlines again, as the NCAA Graduation Success Rate reveals the institution’s remarkable commitment to student-athlete success. With an impressive overall GSR of 87%, Jackson State ranks among the top institutions in the nation, leading all Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

This year’s report highlighted four JSU teams achieving a perfect score of 100% in their graduation rates: men’s tennis, women’s bowling, softball, and women’s tennis. Other standout performances include the women’s basketball team, which scored 95%; women’s soccer, which scored 93%; and volleyball, which scored 92%.

The figures released reflect graduation numbers for student-athletes who entered college in 2017, showcasing the progress made over more than two decades of NCAA monitoring. The NCAA has reported a steady increase in GSR rates since the metric was first introduced, with the overall rate for Division I student-athletes now at a record high of 91%—up from just 74% in 2002.

Jackson State’s achievement stands out in Mississippi, which ranks third among all universities, only behind Ole Miss and Mississippi State. 

The GSR considers student-athletes on scholarship during their first year and tracks whether they graduate from their institution or transfer while maintaining good academic standing. This holistic approach ensures that student-athletes are evaluated relatively, reflecting their efforts and circumstances.

The Bigger Picture

The NCAA’s report also noted a significant improvement in graduation rates among diverse student-athlete populations. For Black student-athletes, graduation rates have surged from 56% to 82% over the same period. Notably, Black Football Bowl Subdivision student-athletes saw similar growth, with rates climbing from 54% to 82%. In comparison, graduation rates for Black men’s basketball student-athletes rose from 46% to an impressive 84%.

“The increases and record highs in graduation success rates over the last two decades demonstrate the unique talents, abilities, and tenacity of college athletes to achieve academic excellence while performing at the highly competitive level of Division I athletics,” said Robert Davies, president emeritus of Central Michigan and chair of the Division I Committee on Academics. “The Committee on Academics applauds student-athletes for their remarkable achievements and celebrates college educators and campus leaders for their commitment to advancing student-athlete academic success.”