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Southwest Minnesota State University logo

Southwest Minnesota State University

Marshall, Minnesota · Public

$15k/yearCost after aid
Sep 1Application deadline

FindU Grade

A-Value
N/ACampus
BAcademics
CAdmissions
B+Student Life
B+Overall

About

Southwest Minnesota State University is located in Marshall, Minnesota. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 2,045 students.

smsu.edu

Cost and aid

True cost

Great value
$15kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$10,304
Out-of-state tuition$10,304
Room & board$10,666
Avg aid package$10,602
Students receiving aid11%
Pell grant recipients11%

Southwest Minnesota State University offers an affordable education, especially considering that SMSU does not charge out-of-state tuition. With 92% of students receiving financial aid and an average financial aid package of over $10,000, SMSU strives to make education accessible. The average net price is around $15,000 per year, making it a valuable option for students seeking a quality education without excessive debt.

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Admissions

Test scores

ACT · middle 50%17–23
136

Application info

Acceptance rate69%
Average GPA3.40
Student–faculty ratio16:1
Test optionalYes
Application fee$20

Application dates

Regular DecisionAug 18

SMSU has a rolling admissions deadline, with a preferred date in August for the fall semester, and is test-optional, making it accessible to a wide range of students. The university considers high school GPA and transcripts, and also accepts dual and exam-based credits. SMSU aims to provide a supportive and accessible admissions process for all applicants.

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Academics

Graduation rate42%
Retention rate70%
Student–faculty ratio16:1
Full-time faculty49%

SMSU provides a high-quality education in the liberal arts and professions, fostering a close-knit environment. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1 and average class sizes of 15, students receive personalized attention. The university emphasizes innovative teaching, research, and student support services, creating an engaging academic atmosphere.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$51,342
Avg starting salary$41,400
Earn more than HS grad75%
Loan default (3 yr)6%
Loan repayment (3 yr)66%

SMSU prepares students for successful careers through strong academic programs and hands-on experiences. All programs require capstone or internship experiences, ensuring students gain practical skills. Graduates are well-prepared for the job market, with many finding employment in their field shortly after graduation, and the university provides career planning services to help students build strong resumes and secure employment opportunities.

Student life

Demographics

Small School
2,045Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 66%Male 34%
71% WhiteRacial diversity
White 71%Hispanic 8%Black 8%Asian 2%Other 11%
Campus housingYes

Campus life

Comment your favorite SMSU volleyball player!💛🐴 #collegehumor #MustangPride #SMSU #foryoupage

@smsuofficial

We go to SMSU… of course we love brown and gold 🤎🐴💛 #smsu #letsride #mn #college #university #ofcourse

@smsuofficial

We know filling out applications can be boring, the least we can do is waive the fee!🤎💛 . . . *soap asmr not included*

@smsuofficial

+6 moreWatch every campus video. FreeShow me all

SMSU offers a vibrant campus life with over 100 clubs and organizations, providing numerous opportunities for students to engage in social activities and pursue their passions. The campus community is diverse and inclusive, with a balanced political atmosphere. Students appreciate the small-town feel of SMSU, which fosters a sense of belonging and community.

Student reviews

Campus and vibes

Alumni

I knew I was headed toward the world of food and beverage but wasn’t exactly sure what that would look like when I started at SMSU. I fit right in right away — the campus setup is awesome, and I loved that everything’s connected so you don’t have to go outside in the winter! Everyone there is so friendly and always willing to help, from professors to classmates.

Current Student

Food is great! Just enough options- not too few and not too many. Love that the pasta bar is back!

Current Student

food and dining are good. most of the food is cooked in front of you and you can always find a place to sit.

Current Student

Lower Student Center: If you have a student ID with flex money on it you can get food for a little less money. They promote the meal plan. Get more flex than you do meals. Meals only count in the buffet, but flex is money that can be used anywhere in the school.

Current Student

Cafeteria food was good. Lots of options and they take requests. Plus there is Papa Johns!

Current Student

Everyone in the dorms get along very well. Dorms organize their own intramural teams to play against each other, and we decorate our dorms for Homecoming contests and for local kids to trick-or-treat in for Halloween. People are really friendly and it's easy to make new friends.

Current Student

Food from the cafeteria is probably better than anything you ate in the lunch line at your old high school. Or, if the cafeteria isn't your thing, the on campus food courts have a variety of other snacks and food that will be more to your liking.

Current Student

The dorm life is great.

About Southwest Minnesota State University

SMSU is committed to providing a safe campus environment, having been named the safest college campus in Minnesota in 2020. The university has 24-hour security patrols, emergency response devices, and a late-night transport-escort service. SMSU Public Safety serves the campus community 24/7, ensuring the safety and security of all students and staff.

The Honors Program at SMSU offers enhanced opportunities for qualified students to develop leadership skills and critical thinking. The program supports undergraduate education through a rigorous curriculum focused on individual potential. Honors students design their own course of study, participate in undergraduate research, and complete a senior dialogue with faculty members.

SMSU welcomes international students from over 25 countries, creating a diverse and inclusive campus environment. The university is ranked as one of the most affordable for international students, offering strong support through visa assistance and cultural resources. International students can find a welcoming community and numerous opportunities to engage in campus life.

Endowment$18,238,000
Avg faculty salary$125,520

Southwest Minnesota State University FAQ

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Southwest Minnesota State University admits about 69% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

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