Founded in 1878, Mississippi State University. is a Public college. Located in Mississippi, which is a city setting in Mississippi, the campus itself is Town. The campus is home to 18,090 full time undergraduate students, and 3,532 full time graduate students.
The Mississippi State University Academic calendar runs on a Semester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 20:1. There are 971 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at Mississippi State University include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
55%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
40
SAT Range
ACT Range
21-28
Admissions at MSU are considered Selective, with ,114% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 26 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
83% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 28% were in the top quarter, and 27% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at Mississippi State University.
0%
“We”re apathetic”
28%
“We know about current events and vote”
67%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
5%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
1%
“We save it for the classroom”
20%
“Sometimes, but not often”
52%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
27%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
5%
“I only go out in groups”
33%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
62%
“I feel extremely safe”
2%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
4%
“We bought the gear”
95%
“We live for the big game”
8%
“It”s not really our thing”
14%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
68%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
10%
“We”re a very artistic group”
3%
“Haven”t met them”
2%
“Available in class”
65%
“They keep regular office hours”
30%
“They”re always available”
3%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
10%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
80%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
7%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
8%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
25%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
48%
“We only party on weekends”
19%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
21%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
63%
“There might be people who do”
16%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
1%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
0%
“We”re apathetic”
28%
“We know about current events and vote”
67%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
5%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
1%
“We save it for the classroom”
20%
“Sometimes, but not often”
52%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
27%
“All the time, including weekends”
0%
“I”m always terrified”
5%
“I only go out in groups”
33%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
62%
“I feel extremely safe”
2%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
4%
“We bought the gear”
95%
“We live for the big game”
8%
“It”s not really our thing”
14%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
68%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
10%
“We”re a very artistic group”
3%
“Haven”t met them”
2%
“Available in class”
65%
“They keep regular office hours”
30%
“They”re always available”
3%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
10%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
80%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
7%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
215 Students rated on-campus housing 3.8 stars. 27 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
139 Students rated off-campus housing 4 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
237 Students rated campus food 3.7 stars. 29 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
243 Students rated campus facilities 4.3 stars. 49 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
244 Students rated class size 4 stars. 31 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
242 Students rated school activities 4.2 stars. 47 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
244 Students rated local services 4.1 stars. 43 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
244 Students rated academics 4.4 stars. 56 % gave the school a 5.0.
Mississippi State University REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of Mississippi State University?
151 Students rated Mississippi State University
Landon
Prospective04/20/2025
It is an elite university and I believe it will allow me to be a better version of myself
Keriyana
04/19/2025
I love Mississippi state , when I came for the spark program as a senior I felt like I belong there , I got accepted and started my process as far as school !
Ethan
Prospective04/18/2025
I am drawn to Mississippi State University because of its unique combination of strong school spirit, encouraging student life, and academic excellence. The university's reputation for development appeals to me as an engineering student, particularly in fields like civil engineering. Mississippi State is the ideal setting for someone like me who wants to transform ideas into practical solutions because of its dedication to research and practical training.
But academics are only part of the reason. I’m also a student-athlete who’s passionate about tennis, and I love how Mississippi State supports both athletic and academic goals. The sense of community on campus—whether it’s cheering at a game, joining a student organization, or connecting with others in study groups—is something I really value. It feels like a place where I’d belong and grow.
The Southern hospitality, the pride students have in being Bulldogs, and the focus on both personal and professional development make Mississippi State stand out to me. It’s not just a university—it’s a place where I see my future unfolding, both as an engineer and as someone chasing big dreams.
Jorie
Prospective04/18/2025
I choose Mississippi State because I wanted to attend a school in the SEC but not so close to home. As a cheerleader, I have love being around the roaring of the crowd during loud games. The campus makes me feel like I'm in a small town but it felt home like home than that other Mississippi school. I'm excited to share the experience with a cheer friend and hopefully cheer for MSU next year.
Ethan
04/18/2025
My opinion of MSU, is that it is a very underrated school, and I’m proud to call it my school starting this fall. It is a place to receive a higher education at a great school, but keep the small town feel that I know and love. Being a Bulldog is an amazing thing, where there is the perfect balance of learning and living.
Alanah
Prospective04/18/2025
After several visits to the Mississippi State University campus, I truly feel it is a perfect fit for me. The campus is beautiful, the people are friendly and it has a perfect small town feel. The school is one of few that has my academic program. I would be able to get the proper education for my specific degree. I would be able to join clubs that align with my interests and I'm sure i will be able to make lifelong friends.
Reena
Prospective04/14/2025
I want to attend Mississippi State because they have a good education program and the people and the campus are great, the feeling you get when on campus is amazing is the school spirit is unmatched then any other campus i´ve been on Mississippi state is the place for me to be
Shelia
Prospective04/10/2025
Why I Want to Attend Mississippi State University
Mississippi State University represents more than just a college to me—it represents the doorway to my dreams. As a 17-year-old African American young woman from the Mississippi Delta, I have always aspired to make a difference through design and creativity. Mississippi State stands out to me because it is the only top public university in the state that offers a degree in Landscape Architecture, aligning perfectly with my career goals and passion for shaping meaningful spaces that bring communities together.
What draws me most to Mississippi State is its commitment to academic excellence and innovation. I am excited about the opportunity to learn from experienced professors and be part of a program that blends art, science, and sustainability. The hands-on learning, design studios, and research opportunities at MSU are exactly what I need to grow into a well-rounded professional and future educator. I also look forward to eventually pursuing my doctorate and returning to the classroom as a professor to inspire others, and MSU gives me the solid foundation to begin that journey.
Beyond academics, I am inspired by the strong sense of community and Bulldog spirit that Mississippi State is known for. I believe MSU is a place where I can continue to thrive as a leader, make meaningful connections, and be surrounded by a culture that values hard work, creativity, and purpose.
Attending Mississippi State is not just a goal—it’s a calling. It is the next step in my journey toward creating a future that reflects my dreams, values, and deep-rooted belief that with God, all things are possible.
nathan
Prospective04/09/2025
I am interested in attending Mississippi state university to pursue my passion of film and broadcasting. One big thing that stood out to me was all the creative things they let the students do. from fashion design, broadcasting, art programs and even throwing a concert all these things extremely interest me and I would love to be apart of it all. My dream would to be able to help on the committee that sets up the concert and see all the behind the scene work that goes on in such a large project. Another big dream of mine is to be able to air my own show once a week at MSU in the broadcasting program and share my personality and joy with the world. Not many schools offer programs like these which is exactly why I chose Mississippi state university. thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to apply to this scholarship.
Alexander
Prospective04/09/2025
Mississippi State University has amazing opportunities for many people around the globe! They offer clubs and scholarships to help anyone get through their college life. I love them because they have countless ways to make sure you are able to find your people, and the amount of on-campus jobs they have can help many students.
Patsy
Prospective04/08/2025
The moment I stepped on campus at Mississippi State University, I felt something click—it just felt right. There was a welcoming energy, a sense of community, and a mix of tradition and progress that made me feel like I could truly belong there. It wasn’t just the beauty of the campus or the friendliness of the people (though both stood out right away), but the feeling that MSU is a place where I could grow, challenge myself, and find support every step of the way.
One of the things that stood out most to me was the university’s commitment to academic excellence and hands-on learning. I love that MSU offers strong programs across a wide range of fields, with opportunities for research, internships, and real-world experience starting early in your college journey. I’m the kind of person who learns by doing, and knowing that MSU encourages that kind of learning excites me.
What really sealed it for me, though, was the culture. There’s a genuine pride that students and alumni have in being part of the Bulldog family. From game days to community service events, MSU isn’t just a school—it’s a community. I want to be somewhere that values both individual growth and collective spirit, where I can build lasting friendships, get involved in campus life, and feel like I’m part of something bigger than myself.
Mississippi State feels like home—and I can’t wait to make my mark there.
Catlin
Prospective04/02/2025
There were several things that attracted me to Mississippi State University including the fact that it's in the state I was born in and have longed to come back to. I was born in Kosciusko, MS in 2002, and growing up I was told how amazing this school was. From the friendliness of the students and faculty to the team spirit shared year-round, it seemed like an amazing school to attend. When I started debating on what I wanted to go to school for, I finally settled on engineering, and what school has a great engineering program? Mississippi State University, of course! Now I get to be part of the school that has had my heart since day one, and I couldn't be more excited to push myself further than ever before.
JaKaitlyn
Prospective04/01/2025
Beyond academics, MSU’s campus environment is another major draw. The university is known for its close-knit, supportive community, which is important to me as I transition from high school to college life. The beautiful campus, rich traditions, and school spirit create an engaging atmosphere where I can grow both personally and professionally.
Kendarius
03/05/2025
I think Mississippi state is a great school I’ve visited it multiple times and also stayed on campus for 2 week that time I was on campus I explored all the different things they had to offer with engineering and also found out what type of engineer I want to be.
Keyonna
02/17/2025
Its Ok. I want to be a lawyer and I find it kind of daunting that they lack law school and only provide you with pre-law study programs.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for Mississippi State University is 55%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
If I could go back and tell myself anything it would be to not take on so much at one time. Leave time to relax so that I wouldn't be so stressed. Also be opened to the new possibilities that college brings and be open to meeting new people. As well as opening myself to new situations. Look over the class material once a day at least for an hour. Be willing to meet other social groups and join social clubs. Be prepared for everyday things and make the best out of every situation. Also to take better care of myself that I woont get sick or my medical situation wont occur so often. Also to take and deep breath and accept the things that I am unable to change and continue to work hard.
What's the most frustrating thing about your school?
The most frustrating part of school is that the people here are hard to get to know. People rarely seem to want to join into a conversation or make new friends. Additionally, unless you are using the internet late at night, the wifi is not very good here; however, a wired connection is incredibly good.
What kind of person should not attend this school?
Someone who isn't openminded to different cultures or activities probably shouldn't attend MSU. Also, if you prefer a small college or a private college, I wouldn't suggest coming to State.
Describe how your school looks to someone who's never seen it.
Mississippi State is a wonderful school and a great place to continue one's education. Transportation around the campus is easy, the classes are challenging, but with hard work and focus it will become less stressful, and there is plenty of new things to learn and experience.
Someone willing to learn. You have to be open to new things and people. Everyone is very nice and willing to help if you have any problems, but you have to take the first step and seek help before you can be given help.
What do you brag about most when you tell your friends about your school?
When I tell my friends about state I tell them about the huge campus. As well as the variety of ethnic backgrounds. I tell them that it is easy to meet people that they will bond with. The professors are demanding but they are fair. Make sure that they keep up with the work in class. Also to always attend class and miss only when necessary. Make the best out every situation that occurs and work hard to do all that u can to the best they can.
I really enjoy Mississippi State University because of its environment and the people. We are all from different places, yet we come together to this school and get along with each other and learn new things, cultures, and ways of life. I believe that the size is just right. People actually seem impressed when I tell them where I attend, however people from the University of Mississippi look down upon it.
What are the most popular student activities/groups?
The most popular student activities would have to be sports of coarse. To me the most important to everyone seems to be football, baseball, and somewhat basketball. Other popular groups would have to be the sororities and fraternities so far.
The dating scene at Mississippi State University is alright. You will find some people who are already engaged who attend the University, and some people are in a deep girlfriend/boyfriend relationship. I have seen most of the people who are in a relationship at MSU actually met each other at the campus, got to know one another, and their relationship blossomed from there, which is very nice I think. They also have events, such as Speed Dating, which is hosted by the Campus Activities Board organization on campus; this is a very fun and safe way to get to know some random people of the opposite gender.
The dorms are expensive, but they are alright to live in. I lived in Hull Hall for 3 semesters, and in Critz Hall for 1 semester. I liked Hull Hall better personally, because the rooms are more spacious and they have Engineering tutors for free on certain days for Freshman students which really helps. A plus to living in dorms is that you make friends very easily.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
97% of students attending Mississippi State University receive some sort of financial aid.
34% were awarded federal grants.53%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.