ACT/SAT test scores are optional for admission, but test scores are encouraged for full scholarship opportunities. See more information about test scores and admission requirements at admissions.msstate.edu/freshmen.
Check with your school counselor to ensure you’re meeting high school graduation and college entrance requirements.
Submit applications for admission in early fall (August 1 at MSU).
Submit $40 application fee or fee waiver
Submit official high school transcript (Grades 9-11)
Schedule a Campus Visit in the fall.
Meet with an Admissions Counselor during their visit to your school, local college fair, or during your visit to the college campus. You can also schedule a virtual “Cowbell Chat” on our website, admissions.msstate.edu/about/meet-your-counselor.
Research scholarships, grants, and student loan options.
Watch the mail for an admissions decision and next steps.
After being admitted
DECEMBER 1ST: Priority date for Competitive Scholarships, including Private & Departmental.
APRIL 1ST: Priority deadline for Housing Application & Priority date for Financial Aid.
MARCH 1ST: Sign up for Orientation starting on this date. This confirms your enrollment to MSU!
Send final high school transcripts.
Attend Orientation! You’re a Bulldog!
Junior
Talk with your school counselor to confirm that you’re taking the correct courses for college admission.
Attend ACT/SAT workshops to strengthen performance on these tests.
Take the PSAT – the test used to award National Merit scholarships.
Attend college fairs to gather information (virtual or in-person).
Update your resume with a list of awards, achievements, paid and volunteer work, and extracurricular activities.
Register to take the ACT or SAT.
Research and apply for summer academic programs and jobs that build knowledge and experience.
Begin thinking about your applications in the summertime; MSU application opens August 1.
Start planning campus visits and make sure MSU is on your list!
Sophomore
Meet with your high school counselor to ensure that your course schedule is challenging enough to prepare you for college.
Continue prepping for the PSAT, SAT, and ACT. Take practice tests to know what to expect.
Attend college fairs to gather information (virtual or in-person).
Begin researching different types of careers that might interest you.
Freshman
Meet with your high school counselor to match class plans with your academic goals.
Start prepping for the PSAT, SAT, and ACT. Take practice tests to know what to expect.
Begin researching different types of careers that might interest you.
Ask your high school counselor about honors or Advanced Placement courses to incorporate in your schedule.
Get involved in extracurricular activities. Community service and leadership roles can lead to scholarships.
Explore summer opportunities such as a job, internship, or volunteer position that will help you learn about a field of interest.