Overview
Montana State University is a less selective public four-year institution in Bozeman, Montana. The school accepts 73.3% of applicants and enrolls 14,472 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 73.3%
- Average SAT
- 1,180
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,070–1,290
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 24
- Total Enrollment
- 14,472
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Montana State University uses a rolling admissions process, so you can submit your application any time after it opens in August, but applying by the priority deadline of March 1st gives you better access to housing and financial aid. You'll need to complete the Common Application or the university's online application, submit official high school transcripts, and provide SAT or ACT scores.
Engineering programs at Montana State are significantly more competitive than the university's overall admission rate suggests. The Jake Jabs College of Engineering requires higher test scores and grades, and some engineering majors have limited enrollment. Computer science and computer engineering fill up quickly each year. Nursing also has restricted admission with additional prerequisites and application requirements beyond general university admission.
Housing fills up fast, especially the newer residence halls, so submit your housing application immediately after being admitted. The university requires all first-year students under 20 to live on campus unless they live with family nearby. Orientation, called "Cat-O," is mandatory for all new students and runs throughout the summer before your first semester.
Montana State operates on a semester system and requires 120 credits to graduate. The university has a strong emphasis on undergraduate research opportunities, particularly in engineering and the sciences. Winter weather in Bozeman is severe, so prepare for snow from November through March and temperatures that regularly drop below zero. The campus sits at 4,820 feet elevation, which can affect some students initially.
If you're interested in outdoor recreation, Montana State's location provides immediate access to world-class skiing, hiking, and fishing. The university's proximity to Yellowstone National Park and extensive wilderness areas shapes much of campus culture and student activities.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $20,593/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $8,083
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $31,337
- Students Receiving Aid
- 17%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 57.3%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $53,263/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 77.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Montana State University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Montana State University has adopted a test-optional policy, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not required for admission. Students can choose to submit test scores if they believe the scores will strengthen their application.
What is the application deadline for Montana State University?
Montana State University has rolling admissions with no specific deadline, though they recommend applying by March 1 for fall semester to ensure the best chance for housing and financial aid. Applications submitted after this date will be reviewed on a space-available basis.
How many credits can transfer students bring to Montana State University?
Montana State University accepts up to 64 credits from community colleges and has no limit on credits transferred from four-year institutions. Transfer students must complete at least 30 credits at MSU to earn a degree.
Does Montana State University offer early decision or early action admissions?
Montana State University does not offer early decision or early action programs. The university uses rolling admissions, reviewing applications as they are received throughout the admissions cycle.