Freshmen Application Process
Applying to Mizzou starts with the two steps below. Continue reading for important dates, scholarship opportunities and additional application information.
Complete the online application starting Aug. 1 and pay the application fee. You may apply either with ACT or SAT scores or through Mizzou’s test-optional review process.
If your test scores meet our traditional admission requirements, you are encouraged to apply with test scores to qualify for automatic admission. Students who apply test optional will receive a holistic review based on their high school transcript and application essay.
NOTE: If you choose to apply test optional, you may still submit a test score later for consideration. However, if you apply with test scores and receive an admission decision, you cannot switch to test optional. Learn more about Test-Optional Admission.
Be sure to submit all required application materials, including requesting an official high school transcript be sent to Mizzou. Admissions decisions will be released on a rolling basis beginning Oct. 1.
Request that your high school send your official transcripts directly to Mizzou. If your high school does not offer electronic exchange, have them mail a hard copy to:
MU Office of Admissions
230 Jesse Hall
Columbia, MO 65211
When to Apply
Applications for the following academic year open on Aug. 1.
Students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to allow enough time to complete all the enrollment steps and to meet important deadlines, including the Dec. 1 deadline for merit scholarship consideration.
Maximize Scholarships
To meet the priority deadline for departmental and general scholarships, as well as deadlines for all competitive scholarships, plan ahead — especially for competitive scholarships. Many require essays and/or letters of recommendation.
We will award merit scholarships through July. You can continue to submit test scores through the June and July test dates.
Uncertain or Changing Financial Situations
Be sure to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually, regardless of your family’s financial situation. The FAFSA form becomes available October 1 of each year, and we’ll remind you to submit it once you’ve applied to Mizzou. Complete the FAFSA by Mizzou’s priority deadline of February 1 each year to maximize your financial aid offer.
Learn more about financial aid