University of Southern Mississippi Scholarships (2025–2026)
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- Tuition, housing, and what families actually pay on average
- Automatic merit scholarships and typical qualification ranges
- Competitive and hidden-gem scholarships worth a closer look
- Honors College perks and how to stack awards strategically
📊 Admissions Snapshot
- Acceptance Rate: ~96% (CDS 2024–25)
- Middle 50% ACT: 19–27
- Middle 50% SAT: 990–1190
- Average HS GPA: 3.46 (unweighted)
Sources: University of Southern Mississippi Common Data Set 2024–25 and Office of Undergraduate Admissions. GPA shown is unweighted on a 4.0 scale.
Comparing multiple schools? Try the Scholarship Tool to search by GPA, test scores, and state →
Southern Miss at a Glance
Last verified: October 14, 2025
The University of Southern Mississippi combines affordability with generous academic awards for both in-state and out-of-state students. With programs like Luckyday and the Honors College, high-achieving students can often cover full tuition—or more—with scholarships that recognize academics, leadership, and service.
This guide breaks down who qualifies for automatic merit, how to apply for competitive programs, and how to combine state and institutional aid to make Southern Miss an excellent value.
FAQ
Is this college test-optional? Yes. USM is test-optional through Fall 2026, but test scores are still used for some scholarships. (USM Admissions 2025–26)
What is the middle 50% ACT/SAT? ACT 19–27; SAT 990–1190 (Common Data Set 2024–25).
What’s the average net price? $13,258 (College Scorecard 2025).
Does this school offer OOS waivers? Yes — Border County, Academic Common Market, and Military waivers reduce out-of-state tuition for qualifying students.
https://www.usm.edu/undergraduate-admissions/costs-scholarships.php
https://www.usm.edu/financial-aid/cost-of-attendance-future-year.php
https://www.usm.edu/financial-aid/cost-of-attendance-current-year.php
https://www.usm.edu/financial-aid/cost-attendance.php
https://www.usm.edu/scholarships-financial-wellness/freshman_scholarships/academicexcellence.php
https://www.usm.edu/luckyday-scholars/application-guidelines.php
https://www.luckyday.msstate.edu/becoming-scholar
https://www.usm.edu/honors/apply.php
https://catalog.usm.edu/content.php?catoid=34&navoid=2179
💰 Cost of Attendance at University of Southern Mississippi (2025–2026)
The table below lists direct, billed costs only for a full-time undergraduate living on campus in Hattiesburg. These are the university’s official 2025–2026 estimates for tuition, required fees, housing, and meals.
| In-State | Out-of-State | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | $10,394 | $12,394 |
| Housing & Meals (est.) | $11,508 | $11,508 |
| Total (Direct/Billed) | $21,902 | $23,902 |
Why only these items? These are the costs you pay directly to USM — tuition, required fees, on-campus housing, and a standard meal plan. Other indirect expenses (books/supplies, transportation, personal) vary by student and aren’t billed by the university. Housing and meal totals are estimates; actuals vary by hall and meal plan.
📉 Average Net Price (after aid)
Recent federal data show an average net price around $13–14k per year after grants and scholarships. Your family’s actual cost will depend on GPA, test scores, FAFSA results, and scholarship timing. Learn how Net Price and the Student Aid Index (SAI) work in our guide: Net Price & SAI explained. For a personalized estimate, try USM’s Net Price Calculator.
- Border County Tuition Waiver: Students from eligible counties in Alabama and Louisiana pay in-state tuition rates when admitted to USM.
- Academic Common Market (ACM): Allows eligible students from SREB states to pay in-state tuition for approved majors not offered in their home state.
- Military & Veteran Waiver: Active-duty service members, veterans, and their dependents qualify for in-state tuition under federal guidelines.
Savings example: Non-resident students paying the out-of-state rate (~$11,300) can save about $2,000 per year with a waiver, and much more through merit scholarships or ACM eligibility.
👉 Mississippi State Grants & Scholarships
FAQ — Understanding USM Costs
Why is the out-of-state cost only about $2,000 higher?
Because USM keeps a relatively small tuition gap between in-state and out-of-state students, and many out-of-state applicants qualify for border county waivers or Academic Common Market in-state rates.
Who qualifies for the border county waiver?
Students from approved Alabama or Louisiana counties are automatically charged in-state tuition once admitted. No extra application is required.
What does “net price” really mean here?
It’s the average cost after scholarships and grants. For most students, USM’s net price is around $13,000–$14,000 per year, depending on FAFSA results and academic merit.
Do Mississippi state grants stack with USM scholarships?
Yes. State awards like HELP, MTAG, and MESG can be combined with university merit scholarships up to the total cost of attendance.
Can military families get in-state tuition?
Absolutely. Active-duty members, veterans, and dependents are classified as in-state for tuition under federal and state policy.
When should families apply to maximize aid?
Apply for admission by December 1 and complete the FAFSA by April 1 to ensure full eligibility for scholarships and state/federal aid.
https://www.usm.edu/undergraduate-admissions/costs-scholarships.php
https://www.usm.edu/financial-aid/cost-of-attendance-future-year.php
https://www.usm.edu/financial-aid/cost-attendance.php
https://www.usm.edu/housing-residence-life/apply/housing-rates.php
https://www.usm.edu/financial-aid/academic-common-market.php
https://www.usm.edu/military-veterans/amendment-usm-military-out-state-waiver-policy.php
https://www.usm.edu/financial-aid/net-price-calculator.phpr.php
✅ Automatic Merit Scholarships
At Southern Miss, automatic scholarships are tied to GPA and test scores when you apply by the priority deadline. These awards help bring down the sticker price—especially for strong in-state students and nonresidents with solid ACT/SAT results.
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Freshman Academic Excellence Scholarship (In-State) | $2,000–$3,000/year | Mississippi residents with ACT 21–23 and 3.0+ GPA | No | Yes (3.0 GPA; full-time) | Local students with solid but not top scores; most admitted freshmen in this band receive it | March 1 (fully admitted with test scores) |
| Freshman Academic Distinction Scholarship (In-State) | $4,000–$6,000/year | ACT 24–28 and 3.0+ GPA | No | Yes (3.0 GPA; full-time) | Stronger in-state students; the majority in this band secure the award | March 1 (fully admitted with test scores) |
| Freshman Academic Excellence/Distinction (Nonresident) | $6,000–$11,000/year | Nonresidents with ACT 23–29 and 3.0+ GPA | No | Yes (3.0 GPA; full-time) | Most out-of-state admits with scores in this range; brings OOS cost closer to in-state levels | March 1 (fully admitted with test scores) |
| Freshman Academic Excellence/Distinction (High Scores) | $12,000–$16,000/year | ACT 30–36 and 3.0+ GPA | No | Yes (3.0 GPA; full-time) | Top students—both residents and nonresidents—score near-full tuition coverage | March 1 (fully admitted with test scores) |
Note: GPA/test score cutoffs are approximate, based on official award charts and prior recipient data. Actual cutoffs can shift each year depending on applicant pool and funding.
FAQ
Do I need a separate application?
No. Students are automatically considered when fully admitted by the priority deadline.
When is the deadline to be eligible for automatic merit?
Applicants need to be fully admitted with final test scores by **March 1** to be considered for the Academic Excellence scholarships.
Does Southern Miss superscore the ACT/SAT for merit awards?
Yes. USM accepts superscores for ACT and SAT in scholarship consideration (for incoming freshmen starting with recent classes).
How is my GPA calculated (weighted or unweighted)?
The Office of Scholarships uses the cumulative GPA listed on your official transcript. If your GPA is on a 5-point scale, it’s converted to a 4-point scale.
Are these awards renewable?
Yes. The Academic Excellence scholarships renew for up to four years (8 semesters), provided you maintain a USM cumulative GPA of 2.5 and enroll in at least 15 USM credit hours each semester.
Can the cutoffs change?
Yes. The published GPA and test score cutoffs are approximate and may shift annually depending on funding and applicant strength.
Who actually wins these awards?
Students admitted with solid GPAs and test scores in the relevant bands typically qualify. The top tiers (especially for high-score categories) go to stronger test-takers.
https://www.usm.edu/scholarships-financial-wellness/freshman_scholarships/academicexcellence.php
https://www.usm.edu/scholarships-financial-wellness/freshman-scholarships.php
https://www.usm.edu/undergraduate-admissions/costs-scholarships.php
https://www.usm.edu/scholarships-financial-wellness/faq.php
Flagship Scholarships (Competitive Scholarships) — University of Southern Mississippi
These scholarships go beyond GPA and test scores. They’re selective, often require essays, interviews, or service records, and can significantly reduce total college costs for high-achieving Mississippi students.
| Scholarship | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Presidential Scholarship | Full tuition, housing, and stipend | High GPA (typically 3.8+) and strong ACT/SAT; must apply to USM by Dec 1 and submit Presidential Scholarship application by Jan 15 | Yes — separate application and interview | Yes, contingent on GPA and service | Around 20–25 students selected each year; most have ACT 30+, near-perfect GPAs, and exceptional leadership or service profiles | Jan 15 |
| Luckyday Citizenship Scholarship | Up to $6,000 per year | Mississippi residents with minimum 3.0 GPA; strong leadership and community service; FAFSA encouraged; apply to USM by Dec 1 and complete Luckyday app by Jan 15 | Yes — separate Luckyday Foundation application | Yes, if service and GPA standards maintained | Roughly 60 new students each year; selected for consistent academics, service, and leadership potential | Jan 15 |
Flagship / Competitive Scholarship FAQs
Why are these called “competitive”?
They have limited slots and include extra steps—essays, interviews, and leadership documentation. Only a small percentage of applicants receive them each year.
Is Luckyday exclusive to Southern Miss?
No. Luckyday is a Mississippi-based foundation scholarship offered at multiple universities, including Southern Miss, Ole Miss, and Mississippi State. Each campus runs its own cohort.
Can I apply for both scholarships?
Yes. Students meeting both sets of criteria are encouraged to apply for each. While winning both is rare, applying to both programs increases your overall aid opportunities.
Do these stack with automatic scholarships?
Typically, no. Competitive awards like the Presidential replace general merit packages, but may still combine with need-based or external scholarships. Always confirm stacking details in your financial aid award letter.
What can students do to strengthen their applications?
Apply early and write thoughtful essays highlighting leadership and service. Use our Essay Toolkit for help crafting strong responses, and our Brag Sheet Builder to organize accomplishments before applying.
https://www.usm.edu/honors/scholarships.php
https://www.usm.edu/luckyday-scholars/application-guidelines.php
https://www.luckyday.msstate.edu/becoming-scholar
https://www.usm.edu/scholarships-financial-wellness/freshman-scholarships.php
https://www.usm.edu/scholarships-financial-wellness/faq.php
https://usm.academicworks.com/
Honors College at Southern Miss
The Honors College at Southern Miss is one of the oldest in the nation and has two distinct entry paths: Freshman Entry (straight out of high school) and Keystone (for current students who qualify later on). While the program itself doesn’t guarantee automatic scholarships, Honors students often have access to extra funding and research opportunities.
| Scholarship / Program | Award Amount | Eligibility | Separate App? | Renewable? | Who Actually Wins? | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honors College Entry Scholarships | $3,000/year (typical) | Incoming freshmen accepted into the Honors College; strong GPA and test scores expected | Yes – separate Honors app (unless auto-invited) | Yes | High-achieving students with ACT 28+ (SAT 1300+) and GPA around 3.6+ who also show curiosity and leadership. | Jan 15 (priority for fall entry) |
| Honors College Research Fellowships | $500 – $2,000 (one-time) | Honors students completing research or creative projects; proposal required | Yes – project proposal | No | Motivated juniors and seniors in Honors with faculty support for their research or capstone project. | Varies by cycle (spring/fall proposal rounds) |
Deadline notes: Freshman-entry Honors applications are typically due January 15. Keystone (current student) applications usually open each spring. Research fellowship deadlines vary by semester.
Honors College — FAQs (Southern Miss)
How do students apply to the Honors College?
Students indicate Honors interest on the university application and then complete the separate Honors College application, which includes short essays and an optional résumé. Some high scorers receive direct invitations.
What’s the difference between Freshman Entry and Keystone?
Freshman Entry is for new high school graduates applying to Southern Miss. Keystone is for current USM students who maintain a high GPA (usually 3.5+) and wish to join Honors starting sophomore year.
Do Honors scholarships stack with other aid?
Yes — most Honors awards can stack with automatic merit or competitive scholarships as long as total aid doesn’t exceed cost of attendance.
Are test scores required for Honors consideration?
No, test-optional applicants are still eligible. However, strong academic records and essay responses are key to admission.
What do Honors students actually gain?
Priority registration, smaller seminar-style courses, research mentorship, Honors housing, and funding opportunities for projects or travel — all of which strengthen grad school or scholarship competitiveness.
How selective is the Honors College?
Fairly selective. Many admitted freshmen have a 28–33 ACT (or 1300–1450 SAT) and GPAs above 3.7, though holistic review means well-rounded applicants with strong essays can also earn admission.
Can students drop Honors later if it’s too demanding?
Yes. Students can transition out of the program without penalty, though they lose access to Honors-specific courses and benefits.
https://www.usm.edu/honors/scholarships.php
https://www.usm.edu/honors/apply.php
https://usm.academicworks.com/opportunities/5698
https://www.usm.edu/scholarships-financial-wellness/freshman-scholarships.php
https://www.usm.edu/honors/funding-opportunities-0.php
https://www.usm.edu/scholarships-financial-wellness/faq.php
https://www.usm.edu/honors/honors-keystone-0.php
https://www.usm.edu/honors/index.php
https://www.usm.edu/honors/faq.php
⭐ College Specialties
Southern Miss might not always get the national spotlight, but families in Mississippi know it has a few powerhouse programs worth bragging about.
Other standout areas where Southern Miss gets attention:
- Education (Teacher Preparation): Ranked #90 nationally among U.S. News Best Education Schools (2025), second-highest in Mississippi.
- Sport Management (Online Master’s): Ranked #13 Best Online Master’s by Intelligent.com (2023).
- Symphony Orchestra & Fine Arts: Mississippi’s oldest university symphony orchestra; accredited in all major fine arts areas.