Paying for College

Quality education shouldn't cost you everything. We prove that every single day.

At SEMO, we're serious about making education affordable and within reach, and we don't compromise on quality. With low tuition and abundant real-world learning opportunities, scholarships that recognize merit and need, and a network of support standing by you, a respected degree is within arm's reach. SEMO offers real opportunity: low cost, high value, and genuine support every step of the way.

Invest in Yourself

Calculate Your Cost and Scholarships

When it comes to paying for college, planning is your best tool. Start with our True Cost Calculator. It will help you estimate what your financial aid might be based on information you also share while completing the FAFSA. It's not official, but it will give you a good head start!

True Cost Calculator
Return on Investment

Going to college is an investment in yourself. Get a good return with SEMO's lower-than-the-national-average tuition and generous scholarship programs. 85% of students just like you are eligible for a SEMO-specific scholarship. Paired with exceptional classes, your investment is pretty incredible.

Explore Cost and Affordability
Scholarships

Scholarships are a huge factor in paying for college. It's money you don't have to repay. The availability and types of scholarships are nearly endless. You can receive one for good grades, being part of a program, and more. Get your application in by December 1 for the best shot at SEMO's scholarships.

View Scholarship Information
Financial Aid

Don't let cost stand between you and your future at SEMO. Your future is your top priority, and we're committed to making your education possible. Connect with the Student Financial Services office to explore scholarship, grant, and loan opportunities, and learn how SEMO students graduate with 25% less debt than the national average.

Visit Student Financial Services

Dates & Deadlines

Final Copper Dome Scholarship Deadline

Summer/Fall 2027 Application Opens

FAFSA Available

Housing Contract Tier I

Priority FAFSA Processing

Automatic Scholarships and Housing Contract Tier II

Student Employment

Working on campus will connect you with a large network of faculty, staff, and students interested in your academic success — and it pays to do so. Student employment allows you to work up to 20 hours per week to ensure your studies still come first.

Learn More about Student Employment See Student Worker Positions

Student workers wearing headsets call alumni on behalf of the University Foundation.

Get the Assistance You Need

We know your education and your future are top priorities, and at SEMO, we’re doing whatever it takes to make a quality education financially possible. Yet we understand you may be coming to the process with questions. We’re here to help and happy to guide you through it.

Find My Admission Counselor

Cost and Fees

What you’ll pay as a Southeast student depends on a number of factors — such as whether you’ll live on campus, or whether you’ll learn in the classroom or online. Use our cost calculators to enter your specific situation and estimate how affordable Southeast would be for you.

Cost and Fees Undergraduate Cost and Scholarship Calculator Cost Compare Worksheet

A student in class shares notes with a classmate

Scholarships

Scholarships are a great way to pay for college without incurring debt. They're a form of financial aid that does not require repayment. Think of it as an investment in you.

SEMO Scholarships State Scholarships External Scholarships