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Minot State University

Accept Rate
72.21%
Grad Rate
46.4%
Enrollment
2,072
Avg SAT
1084
Tuition
$8,634
Median Salary
$51,759
Overall Grade
C
C
Academics
A-
Value
C
Admissions
B-
Diversity
C+
Campus
C
Aid

The Vibe Check

Minot State University offers a close-knit, supportive campus atmosphere where students are known by name, not just a number. With a small enrollment of just over 2,000, the environment feels personal and community-focused, blending Midwestern hospitality with a serious commitment to education. It feels like a place where you can easily find your footing and build strong relationships with peers and professors.

Admissions

Acceptance Rate

72.21%
Open Admission

SAT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 108475th Pctl
9301180
40080012001600

ACT Score Range

25th Pctlavg 2075th Pctl
1824
1122436

Admissions Tips

Highlight your involvement in community service or leadership roles in your application, as MSU values students who contribute to their community. Given the 72% acceptance rate, ensure your application showcases a solid academic record, particularly in core subjects. If your test scores are on the lower side, a strong personal essay can help bolster your application.

Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard

๐ŸŽฏ

Can I Get In?

Estimate your admission chances

3.5
1.02.03.04.0
1084
40080012001600
School range: 930โ€“1180

โš ๏ธ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.

Academics & Majors

MSU is recognized for its strong programs in Health Professions, Education, and Business, offering practical, career-focused curricula. The university prides itself on high-quality teaching with accessible faculty who prioritize student mentorship. Research opportunities are available, particularly through undergraduate projects and collaborations within the popular majors.

Popular Majors

Health Professions
22.6%
Education
21.2%
Business & Marketing
16.6%
Public Administration
10.2%
Criminal Justice
6.4%
Biology & Biomedical
3.8%
Parks, Recreation & Fitness
3.6%
Foreign Languages
2.2%
Physical Sciences
2%
Psychology
1.8%
Computer Science
1.4%

Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education

By The Numbers

46.4%
Graduation Rate
71.6%
Retention Rate
2,072
Total Students

Return on Investment

Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)

Student Diversity

Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body

Financial Aid & Cost

Sticker Price
$8,634
In-state tuition/year
Avg Net Price
$12,514
After financial aid
Total Cost
$18,141
Cost of attendance/year
24.1%
Receive Pell Grants
37.1%
Federal Loan Rate

Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education

Life in Minot

Life in Minot revolves around enjoying the four distinct seasons, from summer festivals at the Old Town Marketplace to winter activities like ice skating and snowmobiling. Students often explore the Scandinavian Heritage Park or take short trips to nearby parks and lakes for hiking and fishing. The city also offers a growing downtown scene with local restaurants, coffee shops, and live music venues.

Local Rent Check

$837 / month
Avg 1-Bedroom in Minot
Explore Minot

Reality Check

Can you afford this degree? Adjust the sliders to fit your actual situation (scholarships, savings, etc).

$34,536
$0Est. 4 Years: $34,536

Post-Grad Monthly Payment

$0/mo

Impact on Est. Salary ($51,759):

0.0% of net income

Safe Zone

Safety Check

Minot State University is located in a generally safe, smaller city environment with a low crime rate relative to larger urban areas. The campus has its own campus safety department, and the community is known for being watchful and supportive.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • โœ“ Extremely affordable tuition with no price difference for in-state and out-of-state students.
  • โœ“ Small class sizes ensure personalized attention from professors.
  • โœ“ Strong, career-oriented programs in high-demand fields like health professions and education.
  • โœ“ Safe, friendly community that is easy to navigate and feels like home.

Cons

  • โœ— The 46.4% graduation rate is significantly below the national average, which may be a concern.
  • โœ— The rural, urban setting offers fewer amenities and entertainment options compared to a major metropolis.
  • โœ— The retention rate of 71.6% suggests some students may transfer or leave after their first year.

Notable Alumni

Rick Burg
Former North Dakota State Senator and Minot State University alumnus.
Tommy Kramer
Former NFL quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings, who played college football at Minot State.
Curtis T. Hill Jr.
Former Attorney General of Indiana and a graduate of Minot State's business program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Minot State University is known for its exceptional value and strong academic programs, particularly in Health Professions (including its renowned Addiction Studies program), Education, and Business. It is also recognized for its small class sizes and personalized student attention, offering a supportive learning environment in a vibrant, mid-sized city.

Minot State University is not highly selective, with an acceptance rate of 72.21%. The average SAT score for admitted students is 1084. While it is accessible, applicants should still demonstrate solid academic performance, particularly in core subjects, to be competitive for admission and scholarships.

Campus life at Minot State is intimate and community-focused due to its small enrollment of just over 2,000 students. Students can participate in a variety of clubs and organizations, and the university's NCAA Division II athletics program is a central part of campus spirit. The surrounding city of Minot offers a mix of outdoor recreation and local events, with a strong sense of community.

Yes, Minot State University offers an outstanding return on investment. With an average net price of $12,514 and a 10-year median earnings of $51,759, graduates can expect a strong financial return. The low cost, combined with career-focused programs in high-demand fields, makes it a worthwhile investment, especially for those looking to minimize student debt.

Similar Universities

Top Employers

Trinity Health Minot Public Schools Souris Basin Planning Council North Dakota State Government U.S. Air Force (Minot AFB)
Smart Start Score
53

Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.

University Facts

  • Founded N/A
  • Type Public
  • Setting Urban
  • Undergrad 2,929
  • In-State Tuition $8,634
  • Zip Code 58707

Gender Ratio

โ™‚ 38.3% โ™€ 61.7%

The Money Talk

With an average net price of $12,514 and identical in-state and out-of-state tuition at $8,634, MSU is an exceptionally affordable option for all students. The 10-year median earnings of $51,759 for graduates offer a solid return on investment, especially given the low debt burden. For students seeking a quality education without a mountain of debt, this is a financially sound choice.

*Based on Dept of Education data

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๐Ÿ“ Campus Location

๐Ÿ“… Typical Deadlines

Early Decision Nov 1
Early Action Nov 1โ€“15
Regular Decision Jan 1โ€“15
Transfer Mar 15
FAFSA Opens Oct 1
Check official deadlines โ†’

Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.

๐Ÿงฎ Estimated Annual Budget

Tuition $8,634
Housing (12 mo) $10,044
Books & Supplies ~$1,200
Living Expenses ~$6,000
Estimated Total $25,878
With avg financial aid:
$12,514/yr
Data sourced from US Dept of Education College Scorecard, IPEDS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics. Last updated: Feb 2026.