Chances of Getting Into Mississippi State University
Starkville, Mississippi • Public University • #176 National • Founded 1878
Mississippi State Admissions Statistics 2025–2026
Mississippi State SAT & ACT Scores
SAT Scores (Middle 50%)
ACT Scores (Middle 50%)
About Mississippi State University
Mississippi State University is a land-grant research university known for its top engineering, veterinary medicine, and architecture programs. Home to the famous cowbell tradition and passionate Bulldog fanbase, MSU offers strong STEM education at an affordable price.
Top Programs
What Makes Mississippi State Unique
- Cowbell tradition — the most unique game day tradition in college sports
- Strong engineering programs at very affordable prices
- College of Veterinary Medicine — top-ranked
- Raspet Flight Research Laboratory — drone and aviation research
- SEC athletics with passionate Bulldog fanbase
Mississippi State Cost & Financial Aid
Cost of Attendance
Financial Aid
Mississippi State Application Deadlines
How to Get Into Mississippi State: Admission Tips
Mississippi State has high acceptance and rolling admissions
Focus on honors and scholarship applications for best value
Engineering and vet med are competitive within MSU
OOS students can qualify for substantial merit scholarships
Bagley College of Engineering is a strong draw — mention it
The Brutal Truth About Mississippi State Admissions
The numbers are brutal. With a 80% acceptance rate, Mississippi State rejected over 3,200 applicants in the most recent cycle. Many of those rejected students had perfect GPAs and 1550+ SATs.
Stats are table stakes, not differentiators. At Mississippi State, having a 3.4 GPA and 1150 SAT puts you at average — not above average. What separates admitted students from rejected ones is everything else: essays, activities, recommendations, and authentic passion.
The biggest mistake applicants make: Treating their application like a résumé. Mississippi State doesn't want a list of accomplishments — they want to understand who you are as a person and what you'll contribute to their community.
Bottom line: Apply if Mississippi State genuinely excites you — but build a balanced college list. Don't put all your eggs in one 80%-acceptance-rate basket.
Mississippi State Admissions FAQ
What is the acceptance rate at Mississippi State University?
Mississippi State University has an acceptance rate of 80% as of the most recent admissions cycle. Out of 16,000+ applicants, approximately 3,600 students were admitted to the incoming class.
What GPA do I need to get into Mississippi State?
The average GPA of admitted students at Mississippi State University is 3.4. Most successful applicants have GPAs above 3.25, with many in the top 5-10% of their high school class.
What SAT score do I need for Mississippi State?
The middle 50% SAT range for admitted Mississippi State students is 1050-1250. The average SAT score is 1150. For ACT, the range is 21-28 with an average of 25.
Is Mississippi State hard to get into?
Yes, Mississippi State University is selective with an acceptance rate of just 80%. Even students with perfect GPAs and test scores are not guaranteed admission. Holistic review means essays, extracurriculars, and recommendations all play critical roles.
How much does Mississippi State cost?
Tuition at Mississippi State University is $9,658 per year, with total cost of attendance at $23,200. However, 65% of students receive financial aid, with the average aid package exceeding $10,000+.
What are my chances of getting into Mississippi State?
Your chances of getting into Mississippi State University depend on your GPA, test scores, extracurricular activities, essays, and more. With a 80% overall acceptance rate, admissions are highly competitive. Use AdmitOdds to get a personalized assessment of your chances based on your actual profile.
What Are Your Chances at Mississippi State?
Enter your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars. Get a personalized, brutally honest assessment of your odds — plus scholarship estimates.
Trusted by 65+ students. AI-powered. Takes 2 minutes.
Popular Majors at Mississippi State
Explore Your Chances by GPA
See which schools match your academic profile based on GPA alone.