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Montana State University

Apply for first-year
Montana State University campus
At Montana State University in Bozeman, we embrace the spirit of exploration, not just because of our stunning outdoor surroundings, but because we are innovators at heart. With over 250 academic programs, we push the boundaries of knowledge, whether in the lab, studio, or classroom. As a top-tier Carnegie research institution nestled among millions of acres of wilderness, we are inspired daily to think bigger, to create, and to solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges. At MSU, your education is more than a degree—it's a journey to shape the future.
Accepts first-year applicationsWestPublicRuralLarge (15,000+)Co-Ed
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Academic programs

  • Design
  • Engineering
  • Research
  • Science
  • Technology
  • Liberal Arts
  • Business
  • Education
  • Nursing
  • Communication
  • Music
  • Culinary
  • Art & Design
  • Economics
  • Finance/Accounting
  • Government/Political Science
  • Health Science
  • Performing Arts
  • Social Science
  • Visual Arts
  • Psychology
  • Computer Science
  • Aviation
  • Public health
  • Architecture

Student experience

  • Athletics
  • Co-op/Internship Opportunities
  • Disability Services
  • Greek Life
  • Intramural/Club Sports
  • Military/Veteran Services
  • On-Campus Housing
  • ROTC Program
  • Study Abroad
  • Undergraduate Research
  • Veteran Fee Waiver

Application information

First-year

First-year students applying to Montana State University should submit a completed application and a $38 fee for nonresidents. Admission requires meeting one of three criteria: a 2.5 high school GPA (on a 4.0 scale), an ACT score of 22 or an SAT score of 1120, or ranking in the upper half of your graduating class. A College Preparatory Curriculum is also required (Obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent). With a rolling admissions process, decisions are made within roughly two weeks, offering a smooth and timely path to enrollment.

Transfer

Transfer students must complete an application and pay a $38 fee for nonresidents. A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 is required for admission in good standing. Students with a GPA below 2.0 may be admitted on "Probationary Status," with the requirement to achieve a 2.0 GPA during their first term. MSU operates on a rolling admissions basis. Every step you take toward enrollment is nonbinding and shows your continuous interest in MSU! Please request your official transcripts be sent to our admissions office after submission of your application.

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Additional information

Montana State University offers a range of scholarships to support your education. Automatic merit scholarships are based on self-reported GPA from your application. Additionally, the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) scholarship application is available to first-year students from select states (AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, NV, NM, ND, OR, SD, UT, WA, WY, and CNMI) and a minimum 3.0 GPA; the application deadline is January 2026. The WUE is a competitive scholarship at MSU and is not a guarantee for all qualified applicants. Our most prestigious and most competitive award, the Presidential Scholarship, is for students with a 3.7 GPA or higher who are interested in the Honors College. This scholarship covers full tuition and partial housing; applications are due by December 5, 2025, 5 PM MT. Departmental and transfer scholarships open November 1, 2025, through our Cat$cholarhips website with a deadline of February 1, 2026. For detailed scholarship values and more information, please visit our website.

Visit us

We welcome you to explore Montana State University through our in-person or virtual visit options. Daily visit opportunities include meetings with admissions counselors, campus tours, potential meeting with an academic department, and insights into campus life. For a deeper experience, attend one of our MSU Friday preview days, offering a full day of programming and a comprehensive look at life as a Bobcat. Virtual visits are also available for those who prefer to explore from home. Schedule your visit today to discover what makes MSU exceptional.

Since 1893, MSU has grown into the state’s premier site for academic excellence and a hub of research innovation. Here, we live by big ideas and bold adventures and are driven by a passion to shape the future.