Freshman Admission

To be considered for admission to Southwest Minnesota State University, students must submit the following to the Office of Admission:

  • Completed application for admission and a non-refundable application fee of $20.00.

Students may apply online

To be considered for admission students may:

  • Submit official supporting documents:
    • Official High School Transcript1
    • ACT or SAT scores (Optional)

or

  • Students may self-report their cumulative high school GPA and/or test scores2

For more information about SMSU self-reported admission and test optional policy, please see https://www.SMSU.edu/admission/self-reported-test-optional-info.html.

1

Final high school transcripts, complete with date of graduation, end of year rank and grades, must be submitted to the Office of Admission prior to enrollment.

2

For admission to SMSU only. Test scores and/or transcripts may be required for scholarships, course placement, NCAA or other reasons.

Freshman admission may be granted to applicants who meet the following criteria:

Each application for admission is reviewed individually, looking at the whole person. We consider GPA, high school rank, test scores, curriculum and other academic indicators. Extra-curricular activities will be considered. Personal statements and recommendations are optional and will be considered if submitted.

Recommended Coursework:

  • 4 years of English, including composition, literature, and speech.
  • 3 years of mathematics, including 2 years of algebra and 1 year of geometry.
  • 3 years of science, including 1 year of a biological and 1 year of a physical science. Each should have significant laboratory experience.
  • 3 years of social science including 1 year of U.S. history and 1 year of geography.
  • 2 years of a single world language (including non-English native languages or American Sign Language).
  • 1 year of specified elective chosen from the following: World Culture or the Arts

The University will evaluate each applicant’s credentials individually and note any deficiencies. If required college preparation courses are not offered at the student’s high school, exemptions may be granted for admission purposes.

Students who are lacking in their academic preparation may be eligible for Provisional Admission. Such students may be invited to campus for an interview with the Director of Admission. During this interview, the student’s past academic record and future plans will be discussed. Should the student be admitted, the following conditions will be placed on their enrollment:

  • First term enrollment limit of 16 credits
  • Must take IDST 110 The University Experience (2 cr.) during the 1st term of enrollment
  • Must be advised by the Assistant Director of Student Success
Note: While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, SMSU reserves the right to correct any clerical errors herein. Also, you can submit feedback.