Montana State University

Montana, United States of America

Montana State University (MSU) is a public research university located in Bozeman, Montana. Founded in 1893, it is the state’s largest university, known for its cutting-edge research, top-tier academic programs, and active campus life. MSU offers over 60 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various disciplines, including engineering, a
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Frequently Asked Questions

Montana State University is distinguished by its status as an R1 research institution with a strong focus on undergraduate hands-on learning. Students often participate in groundbreaking research alongside faculty as early as their first year. This combination of a top-tier research environment, a supportive community feel, and unparalleled access to outdoor recreation in the Rocky Mountains creates a truly unique educational experience.
MSU has a total enrollment of over 16,000 students, making it the largest university in Montana. Despite its size, it maintains a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio, which fosters a close-knit community feel and ensures students receive personalized attention from professors inside and outside the classroom.
As a land-grant university, MSU's core mission is centered on education, research, creativity, and service to the community. The university is committed to providing access to an excellent education, advancing knowledge through discovery, and using its resources to address the challenges facing Montana, the nation, and the world.
Montana State University uses a holistic review process, but for assured admission, first-time freshmen should generally have a 2.5 high school GPA or higher. Students with a GPA between 2.0 and 2.49 may be considered for admission based on a combination of GPA, ACT/SAT scores, and class rank. Meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission, as the full application is reviewed.
The priority application deadline for the Fall semester is December 1. Applications received after this date are considered on a space-available basis. MSU has rolling admissions, meaning applications are reviewed as they are completed, but applying by the priority deadline is encouraged for full consideration for scholarships and certain programs.
No, letters of recommendation are not typically required for the general undergraduate application process. The application focuses on your academic record, including your high school transcript and GPA. Some specific programs, like the Honors College or certain scholarships, may request letters separately.
Campus safety is managed by the fully sworn University Police Department (UPD), which patrols the campus 24/7. The university also has a comprehensive network of blue-light emergency phones, a free safety escort service for walking on campus at night, and well-lit pathways. All residence halls have secure keycard access.
CatAlert is MSU's emergency notification system that sends urgent safety information via text message, email, and desktop alerts to the entire campus community. This system is used for immediate threats like severe weather, active hazards, or campus closures, ensuring students and staff receive critical information quickly.
MSU provides comprehensive support through Counseling & Psychological Services (CPS), which offers individual therapy, group sessions, crisis intervention, and psychiatric services. Additionally, the Wellbeing Center in the Student Health Service building offers wellness coaching and prevention programs to help students manage stress and build healthy habits.
Yes, it is very common for students to explore different fields. MSU has University College, which is specifically designed for exploratory students who have not decided on a major. Advisors in University College help students discover their interests and navigate the curriculum before transitioning to a specific degree-granting college.
Absolutely. MSU is renowned for providing extensive undergraduate research opportunities. Students can work directly with faculty on funded research projects in fields from ecology and engineering to microbiology and film. Programs like the Undergraduate Scholars Program (USP) provide funding and support for student-led research and creative projects.
Yes, MSU offers a variety of online degrees and certificates through its Online program. These are designed for working professionals, non-traditional students, or those who need a flexible learning schedule. Options range from undergraduate completions to master's degrees in fields like nursing, education, and business.
The priority deadline to file the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) for MSU is December 1. Submitting your FAFSA by this date ensures you are considered for the maximum amount of federal, state, and institutional need-based aid available.
Yes, MSU offers automatic merit-based scholarships for incoming first-year students based on their high school GPA. These scholarships, such as the President's and Dean's scholarships, are awarded upon admission if the student meets the GPA criteria. No separate application is required for these specific awards.
After being admitted, students should log into their MyInfo portal to access the MSU Scholarship Application. This single application matches you with hundreds of department-specific and privately funded scholarships. It is highly recommended to complete this application by the February 1 priority deadline.
Bozeman is consistently ranked as one of the best college towns in America. It offers a unique blend of a vibrant downtown with restaurants, shops, and cultural events, and immediate access to world-class outdoor recreation like skiing, hiking, and fishing. The community is friendly and actively engaged with the university.
All first-year students are required to live on campus for their first two semesters. This policy helps students build community and successfully transition to university life. Exemptions are made for students who are married, over 21, living with parents locally, or have prior military service.
MSU offers traditional residence halls for first-year students, which feature double rooms and community bathrooms, as well as suite-style and apartment-style living for upper-class students. All residence halls have Resident Assistants (RAs) who build community and provide support, and are located close to dining halls and academic buildings.
The MSU Office of International Programs (OIP) provides dedicated advising for F-1 visa students on Optional Practical Training (OPT). Advisors host workshops, guide students through the application process with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and help ensure compliance with all regulations.
OPT is a period of temporary employment directly related to an F-1 student's major area of study. Standard OPT allows for 12 months of work authorization in the U.S. after completing a degree. Students who earn a degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) field may be eligible for a 24-month extension, for a total of 36 months.
Students can apply for OPT up to 90 days before their program end date and no later than 60 days after. However, processing times with USCIS can be lengthy, so the OIP strongly recommends applying as early as possible (90 days before completion) to avoid gaps in employment authorization.

University Of Montana State University Application Statistics

16895
14915
1980
1330
12
83 %
$ 24990
$ 14000
$ 1450
2.5
27
60 %
1120
22
6
300
150

University Of Montana State University Application Statistics

16895
14915
1980
1330
12
83 %
$ 24990
$ 14000
$ 1450
2.5
27
60 %
1120
22
6
300
150

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