Last Updated: Sunday May 17, 2026  ·  Source: IPEDS & College Scorecard Nov 2025
Metropolitan State University — Acceptance Rate and Admission Requirements
Public Accredited · Higher Learning Commission Saint Paul, Minnesota 96.5% Acceptance Rate

Metropolitan State University Acceptance Rate, GPA, and Admission Requirements

📍 Saint Paul, Minnesota 55106-5000 🏛️ Main Campus 🌐 www.metrostate.edu/

Metropolitan State University — Admission Snapshot 2026

A complete at-a-glance picture of every metric that matters for your 2026 application

96.5%Acceptance Rate
1020Avg SAT
20Avg ACT
$26,057Annual Cost
$64,705Grad Salary
44.3%Pell Grant
Acceptance Rate
96.5%
Avg SAT
1020
Avg ACT
20
Selectivity
Inclusive
Institution Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Accredited By
Higher Learning Commission
SAT Middle 50%
980–1050
ACT Middle 50%
16–23
Avg Net Price
$19,181
Need-Based Aid
44.3% receive Pell

Metropolitan State University Acceptance Rate

Metropolitan State University maintains an inclusive admission policy. With an acceptance rate of 96.5%, the institution prioritizes accessibility and opportunity for all qualified students.

Admissions Guidelines

  • Inclusive Enrollment: Emphasis is placed on meeting basic eligibility and high school completion.
  • Launchpad Policy: Ideal for students looking to build a GPA for future transfer or career certification.

Selectivity at a Glance

Inclusive
Metropolitan State University Selectivity Meter
Selectivity scale: Inclusive — 96.5% acceptance rate
Most Selective (0%)Open Enrollment (100%)

Data verified via IPEDS, College Scorecard (Nov 2025) and the Common Data Set (CDS). Expert Review led by Sohaib Khan and Dr. Waseem.

Check Your Admission Chances at Metropolitan State University

Admission Chance Predictor

Real-Time Sensitive Analysis — based on Metropolitan State University's verified institutional data

--%
Calculating Profile...

Adjust the sliders to see how every decimal point affects your outcome.

Your SAT Score 1200
Your Unweighted GPA 3.00

⚠️ Note: Predicting based on regional averages as this institution does not publicly report full score datasets.

Calculated via College Portal's Human-Intelligence (HI) Methodology & Editorial Standards. Verified by Sohaib Ahmad Khan.

Metropolitan State University Test Requirements

In this competitive environment, standardized scores are no longer elective; they serve as a critical standardized benchmark to validate high school GPA and course rigor. Applicants should aim for scores within or above the middle 50% range of the 2026 admitted class to remain viable in the Holistic Review process. At institutions that remain test-optional, submitting a high-percentile score is still the primary strategy for securing merit-based scholarships and distinguishing one's profile in a high-volume applicant pool.

Can I Get Into Metropolitan State University Without SAT or ACT?

Metropolitan State University considers admission test scores (SAT/ACT) during the application process but does not require them. Although it is not strictly a requirement, the test scores are considered for admission decisions. Hence, it is advisable to prepare well for the test and submit the best scores. Normally, students may appear in the test 2 to 3 times to improve their scores.

Metropolitan State University Average SAT Score: 1020

The average SAT score of the admitted students at Metropolitan State University is 1020 on the 1600 SAT scale.

SAT Competitiveness

Metropolitan State University SAT Competitiveness
SAT 1020 — Accessible

This score makes it an easy target for SAT test scores. You need to put average efforts to score 1020 on the SAT.

Composite
1020
Key Insight: Aim for the 75th percentile (1050 SAT or 23 ACT) to stand out. If your scores are below average, consider retaking the test. Metropolitan State University allows Score Choice for the SAT and Superscoring for the ACT, giving you flexibility to submit your best scores.

If your score is below 980, retaking the SAT is strongly recommended to improve your chances at Metropolitan State University. Retaking the test multiple times is completely normal — most competitive applicants take the SAT two or three times to achieve their best score. There is no official limit on attempts.

SAT Scores Breakdown by Sections

SAT score percentiles for Metropolitan State University
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
SAT Math---
SAT Reading---
SAT Composite10209801050

It means that if you have scored less than 980 then you are below most of the admitted students at Metropolitan State University and your chances of admission are very few. But if you have scored 1050 or more, your chances of admission are higher. 25th percentile means that only 25% of the admitted students have fewer scores than this score. 75th percentile marks the score of the upper 25% of the students.

View list of all colleges with average SAT score of 1000

Can I get into Metropolitan State University with a 1050 SAT?

With a 1050 SAT Score, your chances of admission at Metropolitan State University are good but the admission staff at Metropolitan State University tests your all-around personality and your academics. Your GPA, Class performance, SAT/ACT/Test scores, and AP or IB Courses can help your application stand out. Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities and interpersonal communication skills are very important. Additionally, if you cannot perform well in one area, you have a chance to showcase your strengths and abilities in other areas, improving other areas will help you secure admission. You need to show better performance in all areas. An equally high GPA, taking IB or AP Courses and your role in leadership activities will increase your chances of admission. However, if you equally compete well in all other areas, your chances of admission are high.

Metropolitan State University ACT Requirements

The average ACT Score at Metropolitan State University is 20.

ACT Competitiveness

Metropolitan State University ACT Competitiveness
ACT 20 — Less Competitive

This score makes Metropolitan State University less competitive for ACT scores. You need to put average efforts to score 20 on the ACT.

ACT Scores Breakdown by Sections

ACT score percentiles for Metropolitan State University
SectionAverage25th Percentile75th Percentile
ACT Math201624
ACT English191423
ACT Composite201623

Can I get into Metropolitan State University with a 23 ACT?

A 23 ACT places you at the 75th percentile of admitted students at Metropolitan State University — meaning you score higher than 75% of students who were accepted. This is a strong position, but the ACT is just one dimension of your application. Admissions officers at Metropolitan State University use the ACT as a benchmark to validate your academic readiness, not as a standalone admission ticket.

Unlike the SAT, the ACT measures four distinct subject areas — English, Mathematics, Reading, and Science — each scored on a 1–36 scale. If one of your section scores is significantly lower than the others, admissions staff will notice the imbalance. For example, a weak ACT Science score at a STEM-focused institution carries more weight than the same weakness at a liberal arts college. It is worth reviewing your section-level scores and addressing any outliers before applying.

One important advantage the ACT has over the SAT is that Metropolitan State University — like most US universities — accepts Superscoring for the ACT, meaning they take your highest section scores across multiple test attempts and combine them into a new composite. If you have taken the ACT more than once, confirm whether Metropolitan State University uses Superscoring, as this could meaningfully improve your effective composite beyond what any single sitting shows.

Beyond your score, what ultimately determines admission at this level is the strength of your overall profile. Your unweighted GPA, course rigor (AP, IB, or dual enrollment), extracurricular depth, letters of recommendation, and personal essays all carry significant weight. A 23 ACT gets your application through the first filter — but your essays and activities are what move it forward from there.

View a list of all colleges with an average ACT score of 20

Your 2026 Admissions Roadmap for Metropolitan State University

Inclusive Strategy: Success & Transfer

Metropolitan State University provides an open gateway to higher education. Success here is about utilizing resources and planning your long-term academic or career trajectory.

Meet Eligibility Floors

Ensure you have your high school diploma or GED ready. Open admission means you are in as long as you meet the basic administrative requirements.

Placement Preparation

Focus on the ACCUPLACER or internal placement tests. Performing well here allows you to jump directly into credit-bearing Math and English.

Transfer Path Planning

If you intend to move to a more selective school later, maintain a 3.5+ GPA here to make yourself a highly competitive transfer candidate.

Career Certification

Identify specific certificate programs or internships offered by Metropolitan State University that connect directly to the local job market.

Note: While acceptance is guaranteed, space in specific high-demand programs (like Nursing or Tech) may still be competitive.

Metropolitan State University Profile

Full Name
Metropolitan State University
City
Saint Paul
State
Minnesota
ZIP Code
55106-5000
Type
Public
Campus
Main Campus
Official Website
Accredited By
Higher Learning Commission (NCACHE)

Is a Metropolitan State University Degree Worth It?

Getting into Metropolitan State University can be a great opportunity for many students. It is a prestigious institution known for its strong programs. However, whether it is worth it depends on your personal and academic goals, as well as your financial situation. Metropolitan State University offers a rigorous academic environment and access to cutting-edge research, but it may not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to consider factors such as cost, location, and specific academic programs when making this decision.

Please note that the average household income of the admitted students at Metropolitan State University is $70,000 and the graduate unemployment rate is 2.99%.

How much does a degree from Metropolitan State University Cost?

The average annual cost of the degree at Metropolitan State University is $26,057. As most of the students receive Pell Grants and Federal Grants the average annual net price a student has to pay at Metropolitan State University is $19,181.

44.3% of the students are receiving Pell Grant and 33.7 percent are receiving Federal Grants. So it is a better choice to go to Metropolitan State University and apply for PELL or federal loan grants.

At Metropolitan State University, you will have no problem receiving any scholarship from the federal government. Fill in the FAFSA application form at the earliest and enlist Metropolitan State University as your choice in the form.

How much does a Metropolitan State University Graduate earn?

The average annual salary of the graduate after 4–6 years of graduation is $64,705. An average Metropolitan State University graduate makes this much after 10 years of enrollment (4–6 years after graduation).

The average annual income of a graduate in the United States is $40,595.

$26,057Annual Cost
$19,181Net Price
44.3%Pell Grant
33.7%Federal Loan
$64,705Grad Salary (10yr)

Compare Similar Colleges

Less Competitive

Less Competitive Schools

These schools have lower average SAT or ACT scores than Metropolitan State University. If your SAT or ACT score is slightly lower, you'll be competitive for these schools.

SchoolLocationSATACT
Alabama State University Montgomery, AL 977 18
Baptist Health College Little Rock Little Rock, AR 980 20
Colorado State University Pueblo Pueblo, CO 1005 22
University of Bridgeport Bridgeport, CT 985 NA
Delaware State University Dover, DE 984 24
Trinity Baptist College Jacksonville, FL 1007 20
Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Tifton, GA 994 19
College of Coastal Georgia Brunswick, GA 1001 18
Clayton State University Morrow, GA 973 18
Columbus State University Columbus, GA 994 21
Same Competitive

Equally Competitive Schools

These schools have the same range of average SAT or ACT scores as Metropolitan State University. If your SAT or ACT score is competitive, you'll be competitive for these schools also.

SchoolLocationSATACT
Faulkner University Montgomery, AL 1016 20
University of West Alabama Livingston, AL 1015 20
Central Baptist College Conway, AR 1022 20
University of Arkansas Community College-Morrilton Morrilton, AR 1020 20
Williams Baptist University Walnut Ridge, AR 1018 19
More Competitive

More Competitive Schools

These schools have higher average SAT or ACT scores than Metropolitan State University. If you improve your SAT or ACT score, you'll be competitive for these schools.

SchoolLocationSATACT
Auburn University at Montgomery Montgomery, AL 1090 21
Jacksonville State University Jacksonville, AL 1055 21
Spring Hill College Mobile, AL 1090 22
Troy University Troy, AL 1086 22
Grand Canyon University Phoenix, AZ 1095 22

Degree Programs at Metropolitan State University

Bachelor Degree Programs

Full list of all degree programs offered by Metropolitan State University →

Frequently Asked Questions About Metropolitan State University Admissions

Graduates of this university typically earn a moderate salary, $64,705 annually, with some fluctuation based on the field.

The tuition fee at this university is relatively low, around $26,057 per year, making it more affordable for many students.

44.3% of students receive a Pell Grant at this institution. Your chances of need-based aid are moderate and depend primarily on your household income. Filing FAFSA early significantly improves your chances of receiving the maximum available grant amount.

The acceptance rate of Metropolitan State University is 96.5% which is relatively high, above 20%, making it somewhat easier to gain admission compared to other top-tier universities.

Admission to Metropolitan State University is based on SAT, and a strong SAT score is essential. Aim for scores above 1020 for the best chances, although the overall application strength also matters. Your SAT must be in the range of 980–1050.

Yes, many students successfully transfer each year. Be prepared with your academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a solid personal statement to make your application competitive.

To improve your chances, focus on excelling academically, building a strong extracurricular profile, and submitting standout essays. High SAT/ACT scores are also crucial for competitive admissions.

Last Updated: Sunday May 17, 2026

SK

Sohaib Ahmad Khan

Sohaib Ahmad Khan is a leading career counselor and admission guidance expert who has guided over 50,000 students worldwide. He is the author of four books and developer of widely used career counseling and aptitude assessment systems. .

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