Mississippi State University
Mississippi State University is a public research university with R1 classification, known particularly for engineering and agriculture programmes, offering a moderate CGPA floor alongside genuine research-university standing.
Institution size
Large
Min. CGPA floor
2.75
Tuition / yr
$18k–$24k
Type
Public research university
Key Facts
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Starkville, Mississippi, United States |
| Type | Public research university |
| Institution size | Large |
| Rankings | Holds R1 (very high research activity) Carnegie Classification; featured in some global rankings outside the top 800, notably strong in engineering and agriculture research output. |
| Notable feature | R1 research classification; strong engineering and agriculture programmes |
| Official website | msstate.edu |
Admission Requirements for Low CGPA and Backlog Applicants
- Published minimum graduate CGPA: 2.75
- Requirement applies broadly, with some engineering and specialised programmes weighing additional factors
- Full holistic review applies once the floor is met
Tuition and Fees
| Item | Approximate Range |
|---|---|
| Graduate tuition (international) | $18k–$24k per year |
| Living costs (Starkville, MS) | Low; among the more affordable US university towns |
Figures are indicative and reviewed annually by the institution. Confirm current rates directly with the university before budgeting.
Programmes Offered
- Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
- Agricultural and Life Sciences
- Business Administration
- Computer Science
- Veterinary Medicine
- Forestry and Wildlife
- Industrial Engineering
- Food Science
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, particularly in engineering and research-focused departments, often including tuition support and a stipend
- 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
Mississippi State’s R1 research standing alongside its accessible CGPA floor makes it a strong option for engineering and agriculture applicants specifically, with genuine research and assistantship opportunities not always available at purely teaching-focused universities.
Campus Life
Starkville, Mississippi is a small university town with low living costs, offering a close-knit academic community over big-city infrastructure.
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: msstate.edu
Compare Mississippi State University against other accessible universities on our Find a Course page, or contact us for help confirming eligibility.