Montana Resident Freshman Scholarships
Fall 2021
Each year, Montana State University offers millions of dollars in scholarship and financial aid to talented Montana freshmen who apply for admission. Learn more about various programs and opportunities for students below.
Test Optional
We know many students have been unable to take an ACT or SAT exam due to complications
surrounding COVID-19. Because of this, test scores are no longer required for scholarship consideration. Please note that other academic information, including cumulative GPA, is still
required. Review the requirements for programs of interest carefully to ensure you
have submitted everything required for consideration.
If you have taken or are planning to take the ACT/SAT, we invite you to send your test scores to us as they will be utilized for placement into your appropriate math and writing courses, but they will not be required.
Montana Premier Scholarship Program
Many scholarships will be awarded through the MSU Premier Scholarship program. These awards will be targeted toward Montana freshmen who demostrate academic promise based upon academic performance. Leadership experience, activities, honors, and financial need may also be considered.
Awards will vary from $1,000 one-time to $3,000 renewable. Specific criteria is currently under evaluation; please complete and submit the application below for consideration.
Please note that test scores are not required for consideration. However, students are encouraged to send us their ACT and/or SAT scores for academic placement.
How to Apply:
1. Apply for Admission
You can apply online. Be sure to include your self-reported GPA on the High School Self Report Form.
2. Submit the Premier Scholarship Application
Complete and submit the Montana Premier Scholarship application at the link below.
Apply early! We strive to provide awards to qualified applications; however, resources are limited.
The priority deadline is February 1, 2021.
All Premier Scholarships are designated for tuition only. Students awarded renewable Premier Scholarships must maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or greater, enroll for a minimum of 15 credits per semester, and maintain resident status and continuous enrollment to retain the scholarship throughout their four years at MSU. MSU freshman scholarships and awards are available to those seeking undergraduate bachelor degree programs only.
Have more questions about scholarships and financial aid? Check out our recorded Paying for School Webinar that was hosted on October 28th. This presentation covers merit-based aid, need-based aid, resources to help make college affordable, and more.
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.