Mississippi State University, founded in 1878, is a public land-grant university located in Starkville, Mississippi. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across eight academic colleges.

Mississippi State University has a total enrollment of approximately 22,000 students, including around 18,000 undergraduates and 4,000 graduate and professional students.

Mississippi State University has an acceptance rate of approximately 76%. Among admitted students who submitted test scores, half have an SAT score between 1070–1280 or an ACT score between 21–28.

For the 2024 academic year, undergraduate tuition at Mississippi State University is approximately $9,800 for in-state students and $26,000 for out-of-state students, with graduate tuition varying by program. Around 85% of undergraduates receive some form of financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and need-based assistance.

According to U.S. News & World Report, Mississippi State University is ranked #194 among National Universities. Schools are evaluated based on widely accepted indicators of academic quality, including graduation rates, faculty resources, and student outcomes.

Mississippi State University offers over 175 degree programs, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees across its eight academic colleges. It maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1, encouraging personalized learning and strong faculty-student interaction.

Mississippi State University’s most cherished traditions include the ringing of cowbells at athletic events, the Dawg Walk before football games, performances by the Famous Maroon Band, and the singing of the MSU Fight Song. Seniors celebrate their final year with events like Ring Ceremony and graduation celebrations that honor their time on campus.

Mississippi State University’s most iconic landmarks include the historic Lee Hall with its clock tower, the Drill Field at the heart of campus, Davis Wade Stadium, the Chapel of Memories, the Cullis Wade Depot Welcome Center, and the Mitchell Memorial Library—all showcasing the university’s rich heritage and welcoming campus environment.

Over 70% of Mississippi State University students are from within Mississippi, with additional representation from neighboring states like Alabama, Louisiana, and Tennessee, as well as growing numbers from Texas, Georgia, Florida, and other parts of the country.