Student Body ↓

About

About Southwest Minnesota State University

public masters universityhigh acceptance ratehealth sciences focusprofessional programs

Southwest Minnesota State University is a public university in Marshall, MN, known for its public masters university, high acceptance rate, and health sciences focus. With an acceptance rate of 92%, Southwest Minnesot is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 326 students each year. Southwest Minnesot is test optional; submitting a strong score can strengthen an application, though it is not required for consideration. Southwest Minnesot offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $6,869 per year; the sticker price of $22,718 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Southwest Minnesota State University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

92%
Overall Accept Rate
20
Median Admitted ACT
ACTScore range: 17 – 23

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Southwest Minnesota State University

Essay Strategy
SMSU has deep roots in serving rural southwestern Minnesota communities, so if your background, goals, or experiences connect to rural life, agriculture, or small town communities, make that connection explicit in your application materials.
Demonstrated Interest
Reach out directly to the department of your intended major at SMSU, since faculty in Marshall are accessible and a direct email or campus visit can help you stand out and confirm that the program fits your goals before you commit.

Financial Aid & Cost

What Southwest Minnesota State University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceAvg. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$23k/yr$10.6k
30k-48k~$23k/yr$11.2k
48k-75k~$23k/yr$13.2k
75k-110k~$23k/yr$18.3k
110k+~$23k/yr$20.7k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

44%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$43k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
16:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
2,959
Undergrad Enrollment

Student Body

Student body composition

Race & Ethnicity

69%White
9%Hispanic
9%Black / African American
5%International
4%Two or More Races
3%Asian
2%Unknown / Unreported
1%American Indian / AK Native
0%Native Hawaiian / Pacific Islander
Gender33% Men · 67% Women
Citizenship / Immigration Status95% Citizens and Immigrants · 5% International
Southwest Minnesot, Marshall Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch