Overview
Truman State University is a moderately selective public four-year institution in Kirksville, Missouri. The school accepts 45.1% of applicants and enrolls 2,666 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 45.1%
- Average SAT
- 1,200
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,070–1,330
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 26
- Total Enrollment
- 2,666
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
Truman State positions itself as Missouri's designated liberal arts university, which means your application should demonstrate genuine intellectual breadth beyond your intended major. The school wants to see that you can think across disciplines and connect ideas from different fields.
Your essays should highlight specific academic programs that draw you to Truman. The McNair Scholars Program offers undergraduate research opportunities with faculty mentors, while the Student Research Conference lets undergraduates present original work. If you're pre-med, mention the health professions advising program, which has strong placement rates into medical schools. Business students can reference the real-world consulting projects through the Business and Accountancy program.
Truman operates on rolling admission, so apply early in the fall for the best scholarship consideration. The application includes Truman-specific short answer questions about your academic interests and why you chose the school. Don't just mention the small class sizes - dig deeper into how you'll use the close faculty relationships to pursue specific research or learning goals.
The Honors Scholar Program requires a separate application with additional essays. This program offers priority registration, special seminars, and thesis opportunities. If you're academically strong, apply even if you're unsure about committing - you can always decline later.
Campus culture revolves around academic engagement rather than big-time athletics or Greek life dominance. Students here genuinely enjoy classroom discussions and often continue debates outside class. You'll fit well if you prefer smaller social circles over massive party scenes and actually want to know your professors personally.
Kirksville is a true college town where campus life centers around academic and cultural events. The Missouri Rural Health Network provides internship opportunities, and the proximity to farming communities offers unique research possibilities in agriculture and sustainability studies.
When visiting, attend a class in your intended major and talk with current students about their research projects. Truman students tend to be more academically focused than at typical state schools, so come prepared to discuss books you've read or intellectual interests beyond your coursework.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $12,030/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $9,470
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $17,870
- Students Receiving Aid
- 15%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 68.4%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $56,280/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 83.5%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Truman State University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Truman State University requires either SAT or ACT scores for admission. The school does not have a test-optional policy.
What is the application deadline for Truman State University?
Truman State University has a priority application deadline of December 1 for fall admission. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis after this date until capacity is reached.
Does Truman State University offer early decision or early action?
Truman State University does not offer early decision or early action programs. All applications are reviewed through the regular admission process.
How many credit hours can transfer students bring to Truman State University?
Transfer students can bring up to 90 credit hours to Truman State University. Students must complete at least 30 credit hours at Truman to earn a degree.