
700 East Seventh Street, Saint Paul, MN 55106-5000, USA


Metropolitan State University holds institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, which is a regional accrediting agency recognized by the U. S. Department of Education. This accreditation affirms that the university meets established standards for quality in its academic programs, administration, and student services.
In addition to this overarching accreditation, several specific programs within Metropolitan State University have received specialized accreditation from professional bodies. These program-level accreditations ensure that individual departments adhere to industry standards relevant to their fields, providing students with credentials that are recognized and respected in professional contexts.
Prospective students can be reassured that the university's accredited status supports the transferability of credits, eligibility for federal financial aid, and the recognition of degrees by employers and other educational institutions.
Metropolitan State University requires applicants to have completed either a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Submission of the secondary school record and a demonstrated secondary school GPA are mandatory components of the application process. While prior college coursework and letters of recommendation are encouraged to strengthen an applicant's profile, they are not strictly required. The university also mandates submission of TOEFL scores for applicants whose primary language is not English, ensuring proficiency in English for academic success.
Standardized test scores such as the SAT and ACT are not explicitly required for admission, though data show that approximately 8% of enrolled students submitted ACT scores. Other admission tests are recommended but not compulsory. Metropolitan State University does not follow an open admission policy, indicating selective enrollment standards.
The university supports awarding credit for prior learning, including Advanced Placement (AP) credits, as well as credit for dual credit coursework. However, the institution does not offer dual credit programs directly affiliated with high school students. Overall, the admissions process emphasizes academic records and demonstrated competency while maintaining flexibility in test score requirements.
Metropolitan State University requires prospective students to pay an application fee when submitting their admission materials. This fee is set at $40 for undergraduate applicants. Graduate applicants face a slightly higher charge, with the fee established at $65. Both fees are nonrefundable and must be paid at the time of application submission.
The university offers fee waivers under specific circumstances to reduce financial barriers for applicants. Eligible students include those with demonstrated financial hardship or those who meet certain criteria such as participation in federally recognized programs. Fee waivers are granted upon submission of appropriate documentation and verification through the admissions office.
Applicants seeking fee waivers are advised to coordinate directly with Metropolitan State University's admissions staff to ensure proper processing and approval. This option is particularly valuable for individuals who might otherwise be deterred by the application cost, aiming to encourage a broad and diverse applicant pool.
Metropolitan State University does not offer its own Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs on campus. However, students interested in pursuing military officer training can typically participate in ROTC through cooperative arrangements with nearby institutions that host these programs. Prospective students should consult with the university's academic advising or military liaison office to explore opportunities for enrolling in ROTC units at partnering universities, enabling them to complete ROTC coursework and training while pursuing their degree.
Metropolitan State University maintains a relatively accessible transfer process with a minimally difficult entrance standard. Prospective transfer students can enroll during the fall, spring, or summer terms, allowing for flexibility when planning their transfer.
The university accepts transfer credits, accommodating various prior academic work. It recognizes credits earned through the College Level Examination Program (CLEP) for both subject-specific and general exams, as well as credits obtained via the Defense Activity for Non-Traditional Education Support (DANTES) program. This acceptance allows for a smoother transition by valuing relevant external examinations.
Additionally, Metropolitan State University considers recommendation letters as part of its transfer admission process, potentially enhancing applicants' admission prospects through supportive evaluations from instructors or professionals.
Metropolitan State University offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to accommodate diverse student interests and academic goals. These programs include faculty-led short-term trips, semester-long exchanges, and internships abroad, allowing students to gain international experience within different time commitments and formats.
Faculty-led programs typically last a few weeks and are tied to specific courses, integrating travel with academic credit. Semester exchanges provide students the chance to attend partner institutions in different countries, fully immersing themselves in a foreign academic environment while earning credits transferable toward their degree.
In addition to these, the university facilitates international internships, which enable students to gain practical work experience in a global setting. These internships often align with students' fields of study and contribute valuable career skills alongside cultural exposure.
The university emphasizes support for students through advising services, helping them select programs that fit their academic requirements and personal preferences. Financial aid and scholarships are also accessible to help manage the costs associated with studying abroad.
Percent of students submitting ACT scores
8%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
NoSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RecommendedRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
YesAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
NoOff-campus study
YesStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
EasyGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer