Southwest Minnesota State University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
Southwest Minnesota State’s price is the same for in-state and out-of-state students, so access is broader than at many public universities. With a 64.1% acceptance rate, your strategy should be showing steady academic preparation and choosing a path you can finish. Since testing is optional, submit scores only if they strengthen your record.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Southwest Minnesota State University facts and stats
Southwest Minnesota State University enrolls 7,290 undergraduates. Southwest Minnesota State has a 73% freshman retention rate, slightly above the national average of roughly 70%, and a 46% six-year graduation rate. The student-to-faculty ratio is 16:1.
Marshall, MN

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Key Southwest Minnesota State University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
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Early Action
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Early Decision
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Priority Deadline
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Financial Aid Priority
February 1
Test dates
August 22, 2026
Registration deadline: August 7, 2026
September 12, 2026
Registration deadline: August 28, 2026
October 3, 2026
Registration deadline: September 18, 2026
September 19, 2026
Registration deadline: August 14, 2026
October 17, 2026
Registration deadline: September 11, 2026
December 12, 2026
Registration deadline: November 6, 2026
If you choose to submit SAT or ACT scores to Southwest Minnesota State, take your first test by the spring of junior year and save the summer before senior year and fall for retakes. Because scores are optional, the February 1 financial aid priority deadline should not drive your testing plan; just make sure any retake scores are ready before you apply.
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What you'll actually pay
Southwest Minnesota State lists in-state tuition at $8,840 and out-of-state tuition at $8,840. Students should submit the FAFSA by the February 1 priority deadline to be considered for financial aid.

Published out-of-state tuition at Southwest Minnesota State is $8,840, and room and board is $11,028. Merit awards average $3,724, which can reduce the bill for students who qualify. Students should also plan for fees, books, travel, and personal expenses when estimating total cost. Graduates leave with an average debt of $29,182.
Student life at Southwest Minnesota State University
Campus housing details coming soon.
No fraternity or sorority life on campus.
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