A Student Guide to the University of Montana
Go Griz, Go Big!
Table of Content
If you’re searching for a university with adventure and opportunity, the University of Montana (UMT) might be the perfect academic fit! Located in Missoula, the university holds a national UM ranking of #377 among National Universities and #200 among Top Public Schools. Its Alexander Blewett III School of Law is ranked #96 nationally.
As an R1 research institution, UM Missoula boasts an academic atmosphere with the community feel of a small college (13:1 student/faculty ratio) for a truly personal learning experience. With more than 180 student clubs and a community of 10,000 fellow students, UMT also has the top business school in the Big Sky Conference.
UM Missoula Academics
The University of Montana Missoula is home to over 175 academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, technical certifications, and industry-focused courses in fields like IT, Media, Humanities, and Health Sciences.
UM tuition varies by residency, with Montana residents paying approximately USD 8,546 annually, while out-of-state students pay around USD 33,664; Missoula College offers lower rates starting at USD 4,740 for residents.
Through the Experiential Learning and Career Success Center, UM Careers supports students with career coaching, internships, and job placement services to prepare them for success beyond graduation.
| Program Level | First Year Tuition Cost (Approx.) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (Resident) | USD 8,546 | 4 years |
Undergraduate (Non-Resident) | USD 33,664 | 4 years |
| Graduate (Resident) | USD 7,962 | 2 years (varies by program) |
| Graduate (Non-Resident) | USD 24,640 | 2 years (varies by program) |
| Missoula College (Associate Degree) | USD 4,740 | 2 years |
UM Missoula Admissions
If you’ve finished high school or earned a GED and are looking to start your first college degree, you’ll apply for freshman admission as an undergraduate at the University of Montana. This is the starting point for students beginning their academic journey toward a bachelor’s degree at UMT.
How to Apply to the University of Montana Missoula
Applying to the University of Montana Missoula is a straightforward process tailored to various student types. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process:
Step 1: Determine Your Student Type
Identify the category that best describes you:
Freshman Applicant: You've completed high school or earned a GED and are pursuing your first bachelor's degree.
Transfer Student: You've completed more than 12 college-level credits after high school and wish to transfer to UM.
Graduate Student: You've earned a bachelor's degree and are seeking a master's or doctoral degree.
International Student: You're not a US citizen and require a non-immigrant visa to study in the US.
Online Student: You plan to take courses exclusively online.
Missoula College Applicant: You're interested in associate degrees, workforce training, or preparing to transfer to a bachelor's program later.
Step 2: Choose the Appropriate Application Portal
Depending on your residency and application type:
Montana Residents: Use the Apply Montana application. It's free for Montana residents.
Non-Residents & International Students: Use the Common Application.
Graduate Applicants: Apply through the UM Graduate School Application Portal.
Step 3: Prepare and Submit Required Documents
Gather and submit the necessary materials:
Transcripts: Submit your academic transcripts or GED scores. Transfer and graduate students should provide transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
Test Scores: UMT has a test-optional policy; SAT or ACT scores are not required but can be submitted if desired.
Letters of Recommendation: Typically required for graduate programs.
Personal Statement or Essay: Some programs may require a statement of purpose or essay.
Step 4: Apply for Financial Aid
FAFSA: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for federal financial aid.
Scholarships: Explore scholarship opportunities available through UM.
Step 5: Monitor Your Application Status
After submission:
Admitted Student Checklist: Once admitted, access your personalized checklist to complete tasks such as housing applications, orientation registration, and class enrollment.
Communication: Regularly check your email and the application portal for updates or additional requirements.
UMT Deadlines
Here’s a quick overview of important dates and deadlines for the University of Montana’s 2025–2026 academic year:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Aug 18, 2026 | Fall 2026 application deadline (UM & Missoula College) |
Jan 8, 2026 | Spring 2026 application deadline (UM & Missoula College) |
| Aug 17, 2026 | Fall 2026 application deadline (UM & Missoula College) |
| Jan 9, 2027 | Spring 2027 application deadline (UM & Missoula College) |
| June 15, 2025 | International students' application deadline for Fall 2025 |
| Aug 25, 2025 | The fall 2025 semester begins |
| Nov 15, 2025 | International students' application deadline for Spring 2026 |
| Jan 15, 2026 | The spring 2026 semester begins |
| Aug 25, 2025 | Fall semester begins for Pharmacy & Physical Therapy |
| June 15, 2025 | PTCAS Application opens for Doctor of Physical Therapy |
| Nov 1, 2025 | PTCAS Application deadline |
| Dec 2025 | Interview invitations sent for DPT applicants |
| Jan 2026 | Applicant interviews for the DPT program |
UM Cost for Attendance
When planning your education at the University of Montana, understanding the UM cost is crucial to making informed decisions. Below is a detailed breakdown of tuition, housing, dining, and other associated costs to help you budget effectively:
| Category | Description | Cost Range / Amount |
|---|---|---|
Tuition - Montana Residents | 12 or more credits per semester | USD 8,546 per year |
| 9 to 11 credits per semester | USD 6,876 per year | |
| 6 credits per semester | USD 4,876 per year | |
| Tuition - Out-of-State | 12 or more credits per semester | USD 33,664 per year |
| 9 to 11 credits per semester | USD 25,734 per year | |
| 6 credits per semester | USD 17,474 per year | |
| Cost of Attendance (COA) Estimates - Full-time Students (12+ credits) | Montana residents (includes tuition, housing, food, fees, books) | USD 28,906 per year |
| Out-of-state residents (includes tuition, housing, food, fees, books) | USD 54,812 per year | |
| WUE Scholarship recipients (includes tuition, housing, food, fees, books) | USD 33,238 per year | |
| International students (includes tuition, housing, food, fees, books) | USD 54,812 per year |
University of Montana Missoula Scholarships
UM Missoula offers a wide range of scholarships to help students achieve their educational goals. These scholarships include merit-based, need-based, athletic, and special programs designed to support diverse student needs.
| Scholarship Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Automatic Scholarship Consideration | Application for admission doubles as an application for the UM Academic Achievement Scholarship, Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE), and Non-Resident UM Academic Achievement Scholarship. |
| First-Year and Transfer Scholarships | Requires completion of the General Application in the UM Scholarship Portal to be considered for departmental and renewable scholarships. |
| Davidson Honors College Scholarships | Premier academic scholarships, including Presidential Leadership, Provost’s Honors, and Dean’s Leadership Scholarships. |
| Grizzly Promise | Tuition is covered for in-state residents with a family income of USD 50,000 or less. |
| Academic Department Scholarships | Thousands of scholarships are awarded through academic departments with one application. |
| Payne Family Impact Scholarship | A USD 7.5 million fund designed for students with financial need who don't qualify for the Federal Pell Grant. |
| Athletic Scholarships | Over USD 4.2 million awarded to more than 300 student-athletes for athletic performance and degree completion. |
| National Merit Scholarship | USD 2,000/year awards for finalists listing UM as first choice; USD 1,000/year for semi-finalists who enroll. |
| Grizzly Battalion ROTC Scholarships | Four-year scholarships are available through Army ROTC; contact your high school guidance counselor for an application. |
| Horatio Alger Montana Scholarship | Provides financial assistance to eligible Montana high school seniors pursuing education at UM. |
UM Careers
The University of Montana offers strong career prospects, with about 97% of graduates employed or pursuing further education soon after finishing. UM careers benefit from connections to the public and private sectors.
The UM Law school boasts a 94% first-time bar passage rate, reflecting its academic strength. With affordable tuition, quality education, and solid UM jobs placement, UMT is an excellent choice for students.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What career resources are available for students at the University of Montana?
The University of Montana offers extensive career services, including resume workshops, job fairs, internship placements, and career counseling to help students prepare for UM careers and connect with potential employers.
How can I apply for on-campus housing at UM Missoula?
Students can apply for UM housing through the University of Montana Missoula’s housing portal, which provides various options such as residence halls, apartments, and family housing to suit different needs. On-campus UM housing supports nearly 2,800 students, with average room and board costs of around USD 12,804 annually.
Are there any special programs or scholarships for law students at UM Law?
Yes, UM Law offers specialized scholarships and mentorship programs aimed at supporting law students through financial aid and professional development opportunities unique to the UM law school.
How does the University of Montana’s tuition compare to other public universities?
The UM tuition is competitively priced among public universities in the region, with several financial aid options available to help offset the UM cost for both in-state and out-of-state students.
What factors contribute to the University of Montana’s ranking?
The UM ranking reflects strengths in research, student satisfaction, faculty credentials, and programs like Ecology and Environmental Sciences, which help distinguish the University of Montana Missoula nationally and globally.