Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) is earning national recognition for affordability, offering out-of-state students one of the lowest tuition and fees among public institutions while maintaining strong academic value and student support.
According to data originally compiled by U.S. News & World Report, SEMO’s out-of-state undergraduate tuition and fees rank among the most affordable in the nation. In fact, SEMO stands out as the most affordable public four-year institution in Missouri for out-of-state students based on the same data. Based on that U.S. News data set, SEMO is also the most affordable option for out-of-state students among institutions in Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas and Illinois, and is one of only six public universities in the entire Midwest to appear in this affordability range.
“Access, which includes affordability, is an integral piece of what makes SEMO who we are,” said Dr. Bruce Skinner, interim vice president for enrollment management and student success at SEMO. “We believe every student, whether they live in Missouri or elsewhere, deserves a high-quality education without the burden of excessive cost.”
Prospective students from outside Missouri have access to a competitively priced, high-quality public university experience. In 2023, the Board of Governors approved a single domestic rate, so that all U.S. residents pay the same as Missouri residents.
“Because of our proximity to Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas and Illinois, it only makes sense that students just across state lines have the same opportunity Missouri students do,” said Skinner. “SEMO serves the entire region.”
SEMO’s approach to affordability is underscored by more than just low cost. The University is committed to hands-on learning from day one, excellence in teaching and a boldly supportive community. This means SEMO students will save money while becoming career-ready graduates.
Learn more at semo.edu/apply.