Overview
University of Missouri-Columbia is a less selective public four-year institution in Columbia, Missouri. The school accepts 79.1% of applicants and enrolls 23,118 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 79.1%
- Average SAT
- 1,240
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,140–1,340
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 27
- Total Enrollment
- 23,118
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
University of Missouri-Columbia uses a straightforward application process through the Common Application or their institutional application, with a priority deadline of December 1st for fall admission and May 1st for regular decision. You'll need to submit your high school transcript, one letter of recommendation, and a personal essay.
Engineering programs require more competitive credentials than the university's overall admission standards, particularly computer engineering and mechanical engineering. The nursing program also maintains higher admission requirements and fills quickly. Business majors should apply early since popular concentrations like finance reach capacity faster than other programs.
Housing applications open in February for fall enrollment, and you should submit yours immediately after acceptance since freshman residence halls fill on a first-come basis. The campus requires all first-year students under 21 to live on campus unless they live with family within 35 miles of Columbia.
Mizzou operates on a semester system starting in late August. New Student Orientation occurs throughout the summer in two-day sessions that include academic advising and course registration. You can complete placement exams online before orientation to streamline your scheduling process.
The campus sits in downtown Columbia, creating a true college town atmosphere where university life integrates with the broader community. Most students stay for football weekends even if they're not sports fans, as the entire town revolves around game days. Winter weather can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly for Missouri's variable climate.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $19,889/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $14,130
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $34,338
- Students Receiving Aid
- 20%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 76.2%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $63,403/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 91.3%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the application deadlines for University of Missouri-Columbia?
The priority deadline for fall admission is December 1, with regular admission applications accepted until May 1. Rolling admissions means earlier applications receive priority for scholarships and housing.
Does University of Missouri-Columbia require SAT or ACT scores?
Mizzou has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit standardized test scores as part of their application.
How many transfer credits does University of Missouri-Columbia accept?
Transfer students can apply up to 64 credit hours from community colleges and up to 90 credit hours from four-year institutions. A minimum of 30 credit hours must be completed at Mizzou to earn a degree.
Does University of Missouri-Columbia offer early admission programs?
Mizzou does not offer early decision or early action programs. All applications are reviewed through regular admission with rolling decisions starting in October.