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Montana colleges welcome applicants with open arms, as five of six major institutions accept more than 75% of students who apply. The University of Montana tops accessibility with a 95.4% acceptance rate, while Montana State University balances selectivity and opportunity at 73.3%. Net costs range from Montana Tech's affordable $16,240 to Carroll College's $24,842, reflecting the state's commitment to accessible education. These acceptance rates align perfectly with Montana's growing economy, where agriculture meets emerging technology sectors. Mining companies, healthcare systems, and tourism operators actively recruit graduates, while the state's teacher shortage creates immediate opportunities for education majors. Small class sizes benefit from Montana's low population density, with enrollments ranging from University of Providence's intimate 527 students to Montana State's 14,472. Graduates earn between $44,511 and $61,772 annually, competitive salaries that stretch further in Montana's lower cost-of-living environment. The state's energy sector expansion and outdoor recreation industry provide additional career paths for graduates.
6
Schools
$19,701
Avg. Net Price
$51,868
Avg. Earnings
53.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Easy Admission Colleges in Montana

College listings
# School Acceptance Rate Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate
1 95.5% 527 $20,907 46.7%
2 95.4% 7,079 $17,118 45.4%
3 89.5% 1,428 $16,240 58.1%
4 78.1% 1,052 $24,842 66.3%
5 75.2% 790 $18,508 46.7%
6 73.3% 14,472 $20,593 57.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Montana colleges so accessible to students?

Montana institutions accept 73.3% to 95.5% of applicants, with four schools exceeding 89% acceptance rates. The state prioritizes educational access to serve its dispersed rural population and address workforce shortages in key industries like healthcare, education, and agriculture.

How do graduation rates compare across Montana's accessible colleges?

Carroll College leads with 66.3% graduation rate despite 78% acceptance, while Montana Tech achieves 58.1% with 89% acceptance. The University of Montana's 45.4% rate reflects its role as the state's most accessible option at 95.4% acceptance.

Is Montana college affordable compared to national averages?

Montana net costs range $16,240 to $24,842, well below national averages. Montana Tech offers the best value at $16,240 annually, while even the highest cost at Carroll College remains competitive for private education quality.

Where do Montana college graduates typically find employment?

Graduates earn $44,511 to $61,772 annually across Montana's economy. Major employers include Billings Clinic, Montana State University system, mining companies, and growing tech firms. Tourism and agriculture provide additional opportunities statewide.

Does school size affect admission chances in Montana?

School size doesn't determine selectivity here. Small University of Providence (527 students) accepts 95.5% while large Montana State (14,472 students) accepts 73.3%. Montana's colleges prioritize serving state residents regardless of institutional size.

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.