Getting Started

Resident Programs

Non-Resident Programs

Additional Resources

 


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

Apply online.

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 Webinar 

Learn more about merit-based scholarships and need-based financial aid from our Paying for School Webinar linked below. Also make sure to follow our webinar series for helpful tips throughout the admissions process!

 


Financial Solutions

Resources to help students finance their education and pursue their career aspirations are listed below.

Resident Programs

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

See a full list of scholarships at MSU.

 

3. Student Employment

Work study, internship and employment opportunities help make MSU more affordable for many students. Students can search for a campus job during Orientation, and each fall an on-campus job fair helps students find convenient employment options.

More info >>

4. Payment Plan

An interest-free, low-fee tuition payment plan is offered through the Student Accounts Office to assist with bill payments.

More info >>

 

In-State Advantage

At MSU you can take advantage of in-state tuition while still getting a top-tier education. As a Montana resident, you'll pay less for tuition if you stay here, rather than going out-of-state. Money Magazine lists Montana as the 5th best state in the nation to get a low-cost college education using in-state tuition, and ranks MSU the top university in Montana for your money.

 

Fiscally Savvy

MSU's Office of Financial Education offers free one-on-one appointments with financial education coaches to help students establish solid financial habits and make smart decisions. Coaches can discuss savings, budgeting, credit and loans, and they can also direct students to a wealth of resources to help them achieve financial independence.

 

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.

 
Non-Resident Programs

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

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.


Explore all programs for nonresident students.

 

3. Student Employment

Work study, internship, and employment opportunities help make MSU more affordable for many students. Students can search for a campus job during orientation, and each fall an on-campus job fair helps students find convenient employment options.

More info >>

4. Payment Plan

An interest-free, low-fee tuition payment plan is offered through the Student Accounts Office to assist with bill payments.

More info >>

 

A Good Value

At MSU, you'll invest in a career that pays dividends. U.S. News and World Report calls MSU a top tier institution of higher learning, and the university has been recognized for our high research activity. An MSU education is a good investment from the first day of class until retirement.

 

Fiscally Savvy

MSU's Office of Financial Education offers free one-on-one appointments with financial education coaches to help students establish solid financial habits and make smart decisions. Coaches can discuss savings, budgeting, credit and loans, and they can also direct students to a wealth of resources to help them achieve financial independence.

 

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.


Additional Resources

Office of Financial Aid

Phone: 406-994-2845

Email: [email protected]

Financial Aid Website 

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

Frequently Asked Questions

FAFSA Website

Net Price Calculator

This calculator provides an approximation of what a new, undergraduate student can expect to pay to attend Montana State University.

Net Price Calculator

Service Members and Veteran Benefits

Phone: 406-994-3661

Email: [email protected]

Veterans Support Website

Native American Students Financial Aid

Phone: 406-994-4880

Native American Scholarship Directory

Native American Resources Website

  

Visit our resources page to learn more about what Montana State University can offer its students.

 

 


get info 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.