Missouri State University
Missouri State University is a public university in Springfield, Missouri, offering a broad range of graduate programmes with a moderate published CGPA floor and a lower overall cost of attendance than coastal US universities.
Institution size
Large
Min. CGPA floor
2.75
Tuition / yr
$16k–$20k
Type
Public university
Key Facts
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Springfield, Missouri, United States |
| Type | Public university |
| Institution size | Large |
| Rankings | Not typically featured in QS/THE global rankings; recognised regionally across the US Midwest. |
| Notable feature | Broad programme range; established international student services |
| Official website | missouristate.edu |
Admission Requirements for Low CGPA and Backlog Applicants
- Published minimum graduate CGPA: 2.75
- Requirement varies slightly by department
- Full application reviewed alongside the CGPA floor
Tuition and Fees
| Item | Approximate Range |
|---|---|
| Graduate tuition (international) | $16k–$20k per year |
| Living costs (Springfield, MO) | Low; below the US university average |
Figures are indicative and reviewed annually by the institution. Confirm current rates directly with the university before budgeting.
Programmes Offered
- Business Administration
- Communication
- Computer Science
- Public Administration
- Health Sciences
- Education
- Biology
- Social Work
This list covers the primary subject areas available; it is not the full course catalogue. Confirm the complete, current list of programmes directly on the university’s official course finder.
Degree Levels Offered
- Diploma / Certificate: Offered
- Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): Offered
- Postgraduate (Master’s / MSc / MA): Offered
- Doctorate (PhD): Offered
- Post-Doctoral Fellowship: Offered
- Short Courses: Offered
Availability of Short Courses and Post-Doctoral Fellowship positions can vary by department and is not always centrally advertised; confirm current openings directly with the relevant faculty.
Scholarships and Funding
- Graduate assistantships available in select departments, offering tuition support in exchange for teaching or research work
- International merit scholarships reviewed at time of admission
Application Process
- Confirm the specific CGPA, GPA, or classification requirement for the target programme directly with the admissions office
- Complete required English proficiency testing (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) if applicable
- Prepare transcripts, statement of purpose, recommendation letters or references, and a resume or CV
- Submit the application through the university’s official admissions portal and pay the application fee
- Await the admission decision and, once accepted, pay any required deposit
- Apply for the relevant student visa or study permit using the offer letter and financial documentation
Admission Outlook
Missouri State’s combination of a moderate CGPA floor and low overall cost of living makes it a reasonable, if unglamorous, option for students prioritising affordability alongside a genuine US degree.
Campus Life
Springfield, Missouri offers a low cost of living and a smaller-city setting, with more limited international infrastructure than a major metro area.
International students generally have access to a dedicated international student office, orientation programming, and student clubs and societies. Housing options typically include on-campus or university-affiliated accommodation alongside private rental options; applicants should apply for housing as early as possible after accepting an offer, since availability varies by intake and city.
Other Essential Information
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Typical intakes | Fall (August/September) is the primary intake with the widest programme availability; Spring (January) intake is offered by many universities with more limited programme choice. |
| English language requirement | IELTS overall band 6.0-6.5 or TOEFL iBT 70-90 is typical for graduate admission, varying by programme. |
| Student visa type | F-1 Student Visa |
| Post-study work options | Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows up to 12 months of post-study work authorisation, extendable to 36 months for STEM-designated degrees. |
Official Resources
- University homepage: missouristate.edu
Compare Missouri State University against other accessible universities on our Find a Course page, or contact us for help confirming eligibility.