Overview
University of Missouri-St Louis is a moderately selective public four-year institution in Saint Louis, Missouri. The school accepts 51.1% of applicants and enrolls 5,108 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 51.1%
- Average SAT
- 1,125
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,040–1,210
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 24
- Total Enrollment
- 5,108
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
UMSL operates on rolling admission, so apply early in the fall to secure your spot and maximize scholarship opportunities. The Pierre Laclede Honors College requires a separate application with essays and recommendation letters, but offers smaller classes, priority registration, and research opportunities with faculty mentors.
Your application essays should highlight connections to St. Louis or the greater Missouri region. UMSL values students who understand the university's role as an anchor institution for the metropolitan area. Write about internships at local companies like Boeing, Express Scripts, or Centene, or mention specific community partnerships that interest you.
The engineering programs here connect directly with major St. Louis employers. Mention the co-op program in your essays if you're applying to electrical, mechanical, or civil engineering. The computer science program partners with local tech companies for internships, while the business school has strong ties to Fortune 500 headquarters downtown.
UMSL attracts commuter students, working adults, and first-generation college students alongside traditional undergraduates. The campus culture centers around academic focus rather than social activities. You'll fit well if you prefer studying to partying and want professors who know your name. Many students work part-time jobs while attending classes.
Submit your FAFSA early since Missouri state aid operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The Opportunity Scholars Program provides full tuition for students from families earning less than a certain threshold. Apply for the Chancellor's Scholarship if you have strong academics.
Your transcript matters more than test scores here. Take challenging courses through senior year and maintain consistent grades. UMSL looks favorably on students who show improvement over time or overcome obstacles to succeed academically.
Don't overlook the nursing, education, and social work programs when crafting your application. These departments have excellent job placement rates and strong clinical partnerships throughout the St. Louis region. The optometry school pipeline program also creates opportunities for pre-professional students.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $12,323/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $13,440
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $33,432
- Students Receiving Aid
- 18%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 56.9%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $53,037/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 68.3%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does University of Missouri-St Louis require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
UMSL has adopted a test-optional policy, meaning you can choose whether to submit standardized test scores with your application.
What is the application deadline for University of Missouri-St Louis?
UMSL uses rolling admissions, so applications are reviewed as they are received. Apply early for the best chance at merit scholarships and housing options.
How many credits can transfer students bring to University of Missouri-St Louis?
Transfer students can bring up to 64 credit hours from community colleges and up to 90 credit hours from four-year institutions.
Does University of Missouri-St Louis offer early decision or early action?
UMSL does not offer early decision or early action programs. The school operates on a rolling admissions basis throughout the application cycle.