Overview
Southeast Missouri State University is a accessible public four-year institution in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. The school accepts 86.3% of applicants and enrolls 6,588 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 86.3%
- Average SAT
- 1,075
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 970–1,180
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 21
- Total Enrollment
- 6,588
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
Southeast Missouri State University uses rolling admissions, so you can apply throughout the year without worrying about strict deadlines. Submit your application, official high school transcripts, and ACT or SAT scores through the university's online portal. The application fee is waived for Missouri residents.
Nursing stands out as the most competitive program on campus, requiring separate application materials and higher academic standards than general admission. The nursing program has limited seats and fills quickly, so apply early in your senior year if this is your target major. Engineering technology and computer science programs are also more selective within the university.
Housing fills on a first-come, first-served basis, and you should submit your housing application as soon as you're accepted if you want to live on campus. The residence halls close during winter break, so plan accordingly if you're from out of state.
New Student Orientation happens throughout the summer in multiple sessions. You'll register for classes during orientation, so research your degree requirements beforehand. Academic advisors will help you plan your schedule, but knowing which general education courses you need will speed up the process.
The campus sits along the Mississippi River in Cape Girardeau, a small college town about two hours south of St. Louis. Parking on campus requires a permit, which you can purchase online after enrolling. The River Campus downtown houses the art, music, and theater programs, requiring a shuttle or short drive from the main campus.
Financial aid applications should be completed early since some aid is awarded on a first-come basis. Missouri residents can benefit from state grant programs that stack with federal aid, making Southeast Missouri State particularly affordable for in-state students.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $14,532/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $9,496
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $9,496
- Students Receiving Aid
- 29%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 55.7%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $44,030/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 75.9%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Southeast Missouri State University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Southeast Missouri State University has adopted a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Southeast Missouri State University?
Southeast Missouri State University operates on a rolling admissions basis with no strict deadline. Applications are reviewed as they are received, but applying earlier increases chances of receiving preferred housing and financial aid.
How many credit hours can transfer to Southeast Missouri State University?
Southeast Missouri State University accepts up to 64 credit hours from community colleges and up to 90 credit hours total from all previous institutions. Students must complete at least 30 credit hours at SEMO to earn a degree.
Does Southeast Missouri State University offer early admission programs?
Southeast Missouri State University does not offer early decision or early action programs. The university uses rolling admissions, so students receive admission decisions within a few weeks of submitting complete applications.