The University of Montana campus
The University of Montana logo

The University of Montana

Missoula, MT · Public · 7,488 students

Your Next Adventure Begins in Montana

Acceptance rate

95.9%

Avg net price

$16,784

after aid

Testing

Optional

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

Your chances

How hard is it to get in?

The University of Montana admitted 95.9% 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.

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

Check your own numbers against this class →

What they value

Purpose-Driven Learning, Real-World Impact

Our creative, inclusive environment allows you to immerse yourself in rigorous coursework, collaborate with passionate peers and explore cutting-edge research.

The university offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and technical certifications, fostering an environment for rigorous coursework, peer collaboration, and cutting-edge research.

  • Undergraduate Programsbachelor's, associate's, certificates
  • Graduate Degrees and Certificatesdoctoral, master's, graduate certificates
  • Online Degrees and Certificatesundergraduate, graduate, non-credit

Verified from umt.edu and umt.edu and umt.edu and umt.edu and umt.edu and umt.edu and umt.edu and umt.edu.

Applying

Here’s what to send, and when.

  • TestingOptional

Verified from umt.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.

  • Introduce yourself to UM's DHC with a brief biographical statement (in the third person).

    Up to 50 words

  • List five of your most significant leadership experiences (e.g., academic, cocurricular, or community-based).

    Up to 15 words

  • Describe one of the experiences above in greater detail and how it shapes what you would bring to the Davidson Honors College community of scholars.

    Up to 200 words

  • List and briefly discuss three improbable facts about you.

    Up to 50 words

  • The Davidson Honors College's mission includes the statement '[we are] dedicated to strengthening our positive impacts on the world.' Discuss an issue that you are passionate about. Why is this important to you? How do you hope the Davidson Honors College will prepare you to make this impact? How would you seek to make a difference on this issue?

    Up to 500 words

  • The University of Montana's mascot is the grizzly bear. Words used to describe Grizzlies (UM students) include respectful, responsible, playful, formidable, curious, wise, creative, strategic, active, and easygoing (all right, also hungry). Which of these traits best describe you and why? What experiences have fostered those traits in you? How do you imagine this or these characteristics might shape your life in the Davidson Honors College? How can you leverage your Grizzly characteristics as a citizen of the world?

    Up to 500 words

  • Our foundational academic course, Ways of Knowing, is grounded in the ancient Greek belief that knowledge begins with wonder. Describe how a sense of wonder or awe has shaped your life journey so far. How do you hope to find wonder during your time in the DHC and beyond?

    Up to 500 words

Every prompt, with how to approach each →

Verified from umt.edu.

Cost and aid

What will you actually pay?

The sticker price is about $23,570. That isn’t what most families pay. After need-based aid, the average net price is $16,784.

A scholarship is money awarded to help pay for your education that does not have to be repaid.

Ten years after enrolling, graduates earn a median of $44,511.

Verified from umt.edu and the U.S. Department of Education.

Academics

These are the most popular majors.

  • Psychology, General8% of degrees
  • Natural Resources Conservation and Research5% of degrees
  • Wildlife and Wildlands Science and Management5% of degrees
  • Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods5% of degrees
  • Business Administration, Management and Operations5% of degrees
  • Sociology4% of degrees

Campus life

Here’s the feel of the place.

“When an influencer tells you the mountains are calling, do you take a hike?”

In Griz country, you'll find a campus that encourages you to explore the wild and call Montana home.

Outdoor-centricCommunity-focused

Quick answers

What do people ask about The University of Montana?

Is The University of Montana test-optional?
For the current cycle, standardized testing at The University of Montana is optional.
How hard is it to get into The University of Montana?
Very hard. The University of Montana admits 95.9% of applicants. Treat it as a reach for every applicant.
How much does The University of Montana cost?
The list price is about $23,570. After aid, families pay $16,784 on average.
Is The University of Montana worth it?
Graduates earn a median of $44,511 ten years after enrolling. 47% 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 The University of Montana.

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