Paying for School
We encourage all prospective students to explore our Real Deal Tuition Calculator to establish an estimated cost of attendance for the 2025-2026 academic year.
MSU offers a world-class education at a great value
At MSU, we understand that the cost of attendance is a major factor in any student's college search. That's why we're committed to making the benefits of a college degree accessible to all students through a wide range of financial assistance programs, including grants, scholarships, tuition waivers, work study programs, and student loans.
It's important to remember that financial aid is involves more than just student loans. Each year, MSU offers millions of dollars in need- and merit-based aid. Explore our programs and recommendations below!
Test Optional
Test scores are no longer required for admission or scholarship consideration at Montana
State University for the foreseeable future. Please note that other academic information,
including a self-reported cumulative GPA, is still required. Students can still submit
ACT/SAT scores for math and writing placement purposes.
4 Simple Steps to Get Started
Please note: these steps do not have to be completed in this order. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office.
Apply for Admission
Please allow up to two weeks for our office to process your application.
Get a FSA ID
You and your parent(s) will each need an ID to complete the FAFSA and access other important features of federal student aid. Visit https://studentaid.gov/
Fill out the FAFSA
Complete the application at https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa. Be sure to list Montana State University-Bozeman as a recipient. Our school code is 002532.
Apply for Scholarships
Explore Montana State University's merit scholarship programs. Some programs require separate applications.
Paying for School Webinars
Hosted by MSU’s Office of Financial Aid, Office of Financial Education, and Office of Admissions. Paying for School Part 1 covers Fall 2024 scholarship and financial aid opportunities, significant dates and deadlines, and important updates to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) processes to keep in mind to make your university experience affordable
Continuing on from Paying for School Part 1, this Spring 2024 webinar dives deeper into financial aid at MSU and includes updated infromation on the new FAFSA.
Financial Solutions
Resources to help students finance their education and pursue their career aspirations are listed below.
1. Financial Assistance
Federal & State Assistance
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will be available starting December 2023. Priority consideration is given to those that applied by February 1st.
Go to https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa. Visit MSU's Financial Aid website for a full listing of assistance programs.
Why FAFSA?
FAFSA is a free and easy form that you can fill out in 30 minutes or less. Many schools use FAFSA to award more than just federal aid. Financial aid is meant for all types of students, so fill it out today and see what you may qualify for!
2. Scholarships
Montana Resident Freshmen
Montana resident students are automatically considered for the MSU Premier Scholarship when they submit their self-reported GPA on their freshman application. Awards range from $1,000 to $4,000 per year renewable for four years, depending on high school GPA.
Explore Premier Scholarship requirements for Fall 2024
Nonresident Freshmen
New nonresident students may be eligible for MSU Achievement Awards based on high school GPA. Awards vary up to $60,000 ($15,000 per year renewable) for Fall 2024.
Learn more about the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program at Montana State.
3. Student Employment
More info >>
4. Payment Plan
More info >>
Additional Resources
Net Price Calculator
This calculator provides an approximation of what a new, undergraduate student can expect to pay to attend Montana State University.
Webinars
MSU hosts interactive webinars on paying for school and other important topics year-round.
Next Steps
Schedule a Visit
Go to our visit page to arrange a personalized campus visit, including campus and residence hall tours,
class visits, and meetings with professors.
Apply for Housing
Visit our housing website to select your housing preferences.
Visit our resources page to learn more about what Montana State University can offer its students.
Want more information about MSU? We're here to help.
If you have questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us! You can email our
staff at [email protected], or call us Monday - Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm MT at 1-888-MSU-CATS.