Montana State University campus
Montana State University logo

Montana State University

Bozeman, MT · Public · 14,451 students

A vibrant campus in Bozeman, offering extensive student life and outdoor recreation.

Acceptance rate

82.1%

SAT (mid 50%)

1065–1285

Avg net price

$22,499

after aid

Testing

Optional

Sources: the U.S. Department of Education (2024), and the Montana State University admissions site.

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

Montana State University admitted 82.1% of applicants in its most recent reported class. That means most students who apply get in. Your job is to meet the requirements and apply on time.

Here’s where admitted students landed on tests. The middle 50% score 1065–1285 on the SAT and 21–27 on the ACT. Scores at or above that band keep you in contention. They don’t decide it.

The real question isn’t your odds. It’s your move. That’s where Spike comes in. It reads your profile against what Montana State University actually rewards, then tells you what to do next.

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Top-Tier Research, Broad Programs

The university features a core curriculum, with specific requirements for courses to count towards MSU CORE, and offers over 250 degrees and programs across various colleges and departments.

  • Over 250 Degrees and ProgramsMajors, Degrees, Colleges, Departments
  • Academic Excellence ProgramsHonors College, Undergraduate Scholars, McNair Scholars, Hilleman Scholars

Verified from montana.edu and montana.edu and montana.edu and montana.edu and montana.edu.

Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • TestingOptional

Verified from https://www.montana.edu.

The essays

Here are the supplemental essay prompts.

The current prompts, straight from the application. They change year to year. Most guides you’ll find are a cycle behind.

  • bell hooks wrote about the "sheer joy" of school as a place where "through ideas [she could] reinvent" herself. Discuss how you have specifically lived out this idea in your own schooling up to this point or how you hope to engage in that joyful project in the MSU Honors College based on the classes and programming offered in the college.

    Up to 500 words

  • Write an essay that reflects on a meaningful conversation you had with someone you personally know (name them and identify their relationship to you) that altered your belief system or how you see the world or what you hope for your future.

    Up to 500 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from https://www.montana.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $25,905. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $22,499.

Nearly 70% of students attending Montana State University receive some form of financial assistance, with millions of dollars in merit scholarships available and programs offered by the Office of Financial Aid.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $53,263.

Verified from https://www.montana.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Business/Commerce, General11% of degrees
  • Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing11% of degrees
  • Mechanical Engineering7% of degrees
  • Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences, General6% of degrees
  • Psychology, General5% of degrees
  • Computer Science4% of degrees

Campus life

Here’s the feel of the place.

Students enjoy the Student Commons, explore the Museum of the Rockies, and engage with the Outdoor Rec Center, all within the dynamic Bozeman environment.

Outdoor-centricResearch-focusedVibrant Student Life

Quick answers

What do people ask about Montana State University?

Is Montana State University test-optional?
For the current cycle, standardized testing at Montana State University is optional.
How hard is it to get into Montana State University?
Very hard. Montana State University admits 82.1% of applicants. The middle 50% of admitted students score 1065 to 1285 on the SAT. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
How much does Montana State University cost?
The list price is about $25,905. After aid, families pay $22,499 on average.
Is Montana State University worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $53,263 ten years after enrolling. 57% of students graduate within six years. Value depends on your aid offer and your goals. That’s what Spike helps you weigh.

Launching soon

Ask Spike anything about Montana State University.

Spike answers from Montana State University’s own site, then helps you figure out your move.