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Key facts
- TypePublic
- International students401
- Nationalities45
- Total programs217
- University rankingNot 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.

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.

Programs
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Scholarships at Murray State University
Murray State University awards this scholarship to first-time transfer students with a minimum 2.75 cumulative transferable GPA who enroll full-time (12+ credit hours per semester). Awards are tiered by GPA for the 2026-27 academic year: $5,000 (3.80-4.00 GPA), $4,000 (3.50-3.79 GPA), $2,500 (3.00-3.49 GPA), and $1,500 (2.75-2.99 GPA). The award is renewable for three consecutive fall/spring semesters or until bachelor's degree completion, whichever comes first, and can be applied to tuition, campus housing, meal plan, or bookstore charges. Murray State's international student scholarships and cost page explicitly states that its scholarships, including this one, provide academic award opportunities "to both domestic and international students," making this transfer award open to international undergraduates who meet the GPA and enrollment criteria.
All scholarship information on Studee is provided for guidance only. Always check the for the latest information on eligibility, award amounts, deadlines, and application requirements.
Fees
- Undergraduate tuition
US$15,672 per year
- Graduate tuition
US$7,422 per year

What is the cost of living near Murray State University?
| Category | Cost (in United States Dollar) |
|---|---|
| Rent, 1-bed apartment in city centre | $1,652 |
| Rent, 1-bed apartment outside centre | $1,349 |
| Utilities (electricity, heating, water, refuse) | $214 |
| Internet (60 Mbps unlimited) | $73 |
| Mobile phone plan (data + calls) | $61 |
| Monthly public transport pass | $65 |
| Monthly grocery basket | $350 |
| Coffee shop drink | $5 |
| Cinema or cultural event ticket | $15 |
| Gym membership | $45 |
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.

Facilities
- Fitness Classes
- Machines
- Free Weights
- Restaurants
- Cafe’s
- Computer labs
- Group Study Rooms
- Quiet Areas
- Campus Doctor
- Minor Surgery
- Physiotherapy
- Campus Pharmacy
- Counselling & Mental Health Services
- Natural Turf American Football Pitches
- Natural Turf Soccer Pitches
- Tennis Courts
- Baseball Pitches
- Athletics Track
- volleyball courts
- Basketball Courts
- Academic Tutoring & Support
- Student Tutoring & Support
- Campus Wireless Connectivity
- Clubs & Organizations
- Campus parking
Student reviews for 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.
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.
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.
