Study abroad at Murray State University

Learn more about studying at Murray State University as an international student.

Murray State University campus view
Murray State University logo

Key facts

  • Type
    Public
  • International students
    401
  • Nationalities
    45
  • Total programs
    217
  • University ranking
    Not ranked

Study abroad at Murray State University

Murray State University (MSU) is a public university located in the US state of Kentucky. It is made up of eight colleges that combine to offer 143 bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral programs.

The University has a range of modern sporting facilities, laboratories and libraries. Its active student body runs over 170 organizations and societies, so you’ll never be short of things to do or people to see.

MSU has a well-respected athletics program. The University's athletes, known as Racers, compete in the Ohio Valley Conference and are particularly successful in basketball, football, rifle shooting, and fishing.

MSU is home to some interesting rituals and traditions, including a shoe tree and a campus-wide singalong. These quirks contribute to its distinctive character and feel.

Illustration depicting a student navigating the journey of higher education. Elements include a diploma, graduation cap, magnifying glass with a puzzle piece, books, a "Hi!" speech bubble, and a university building in the background.

Why study at Murray State University

  • Scholarship opportunities

    MSU runs a range of scholarship programs, including the Trustee Scholarship which covers all of a student’s tuition fees

  • Affordable tuition fees

    MSU tuition fees are much cheaper than the state’s average

  • Safety

    Murray has been identified as one of the nation’s safest college towns (SafeWise, 2019)

  • Consistent academic quality

    MSU has consistently been recognized as a ‘Top Tier’ university between 1992-2020 (U.S. News & World Report, 2020)

  • Regional excellence

    MSU is ranked as the 24th Best Regional University in the southern region (U.S. News & World Report, 2020)

Location

Murray State University

102 Curris Center, Murray, KY 42071, United States

Murray feels like home. From small-town boutiques and shops to diverse restaurants, public parks, friendly neighbors and more, our namesake has it all.

Illustration of famous landmarks like a tower, a classical building, and a modern skyscraper; a location marker, interconnected on a map-like layout with trees and clouds.

Fees and funding

Funding

International Leadership Scholarships

  • Amount

    US$1,000

  • Requirements

    Awarded to bachelor's and master's students who demonstrate leadership and passion for advancing inter-cultural learning at Murray State University. Apply for admission first and then complete the separate scholarship application to be considered.

Partner University Scholarships

  • Amount

    US$2,000 per year

  • Requirements

    Partner University Scholarships are awarded to all admitted undergraduate students from partner universities.

Transfer Scholarships The Transfer Scholarship is a non-refundable scholarship that can be applied to direct costs (tuition, campus housing, campus meal plan, or University Bookstore textbook charges) at Murray State. The Transfer Scholarship is awarded for three years (fall and spring consecutive semesters) or until a bachelor's degree is received, whichever occurs first.

  • Amount

    US$4,000 - 3.80 to 4.00 GPA / US$3,000 - 3.50 to 3.79 GPA / US$1,500 - 3.00 to 3.49 GPA

  • Requirements

    First-time transfer student, minimum 3.0 GPA, enrolling as a full-time student (minimum of 12 hours per semester at Murray State)

Fee information

  • Undergraduate tuition

    US$15,672 per year

  • Graduate tuition

    US$7,422 per year

Illustration of education and financial elements including a graduation cap, trophy, diploma, books, a piggy bank, stacks of cash notes, and coins, representing fees and funding.

What is the cost of living near Murray State University?

Local figures aren't available yet — values reflect USA-wide averages.

Category Cost  (in United States Dollar)
Rent, 1-bed apartment in city centre$1,652Range: $1,046 to $4,269
Rent, 1-bed apartment outside centre$1,349Range: $891 to $2,857
Utilities (electricity, heating, water, refuse)$214Range: $130 to $400
Internet (60 Mbps unlimited)$73Range: $50 to $110
Mobile phone plan (data + calls)$61Range: $30 to $110
Monthly public transport pass$65Range: $35 to $138
Monthly grocery basket$350Range: $250 to $500
Coffee shop drink$5Range: $3 to $9
Cinema or cultural event ticket$15Range: $11 to $23
Gym membership$45Range: $20 to $135

Indicative monthly costs per person.

Data sourced from numbeo.com (Crowdsourced).

Visa requirements for Murray State University

Many international students will require a visa to study in the US, and this is a vital step of your study abroad journey. Make sure you understand the requirements you may need to meet before applying.

Life at Murray State University

Murray was previously voted the ‘Friendliest Small Town in America’ by USA Today, making it the perfect home from home for international students.

Over 60 nationalities are represented on campus and many students don’t speak English as a first language. To ensure academic success, MSU runs an English language program where students can receive personalized tutoring before beginning their degrees.

One of the many student-led societies at MSU is the International Student Organization (ISO). The ISO is a multicultural society that brings students together, offers support, and raises awareness of different cultural and ethnic backgrounds.

Illustration showing aspects of student life, including a student with a book and pencil, various books, a laptop, fast food, and iconic educational symbols like a graduation cap and a university building.

Facilities

  • Clubs & Organisations
    • Clubs & Organizations
  • Healthcare & Medical
    • Campus Pharmacy
    • Physiotherapy
    • Counselling & Mental Health Services
    • Minor Surgery
    • Campus Doctor
  • Fitness Centre
    • Free Weights
    • Fitness Classes
    • Machines
  • Library
    • Computer labs
    • Quiet Areas
    • Group Study Rooms
  • Food & Restaurants
    • Restaurants
    • Cafe’s
  • All Weather Sports Pitches
    • Baseball Pitches
    • Basketball Courts
    • Athletics Track
    • Tennis Courts
    • volleyball courts
  • IT Support
    • Campus Wireless Connectivity
  • Sports Facilities
    • Natural Turf American Football Pitches
    • Natural Turf Soccer Pitches
  • Tutoring Support
    • Academic Tutoring & Support
    • Student Tutoring & Support
  • Transport
    • Campus parking

Student reviews for Murray State University

Overall rating

4.7
3 reviews
  • Overall experience
    4.7
  • Academic
    4.7
  • University social
    5
  • Accommodation
    4.7
  • University facilities
    4.7
Davaasuren Byambaa
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Studied Accounting at Murray State University
Overall Experience
  • Academic
    5
  • University social
    5
  • Accommodation
    5
  • University facilities
    5
Tell us about Murray State University

MSU is really welcoming place for an international students. The campus is full of fun activities, adventures, and safe. There are shuttle buses around runs according to the schedule.

Barbara Prieto
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Studied Construction Management at Murray State University
Overall Experience
  • Academic
    4
  • University social
    5
  • Accommodation
    4
  • University facilities
    5
Tell us about Murray State University

I study in a very friendly and welcoming university, the faculty and staff are always very nice and are there to help you with whatever problem you are facing. The campus is very nice, there are tons of study areas where students can study and hang out with friends, it is also a very organized and safe campus.

Alexis Jones
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Studied Business Administration at Murray State University
Overall Experience
  • Academic
    5
  • University social
    5
  • Accommodation
    5
  • University facilities
    4
Tell us about Murray State University

Murray State University is my home away from home. Before I came to MSU I was a shy girl now I am outgoing and I look forward to going to campus everyday. I made plenty of friends at work and in the classroom. They offer many fun events such as football games, welcoming events etc that offer many chances to be involved with college life and make new friends. The teachers from my undergrad up to my grad time have helped me grow so much, they are always available and willing to help. All these professors, even my advisors pushed me to excel and be who I am today. I have been riding the bus from my apartments complex to school everyday and I have formed a bond with the drivers. I have created a huge family at MSU and I never regret choosing to come here, I am actually sad that my time is coming to an end. I would highly recommend MSU to incoming international students.