After you have reserved your place in the incoming class at Michigan State University, you must prepare for enrollment by completing the items that pertain to your specific admission situation.
Some of the items—such as completing placement exams and submitting immunization forms—are required. Other items—such as applying for financial aid and registering with disability services at MSU—are optional or only for specific situations. To prepare for enrollment at MSU, thoroughly review the information at each of the links below.
Most incoming transfer students are required to take the online math placement exam before attending their New Student Orientation (NSO). Complete the online math placement exam at least three days prior to your scheduled New Student Orientation (NSO) date. Students seeking to improve their score may retake the test a second or third time with a four-week waiting period between exams.
Most entering freshman students are required to take the Mathematics Placement Service exam, however some students may be exempt based on test scores or transfer credits. Complete this form to find out if you are required to complete the math placement exam.
If you require financial assistance, submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online as soon as possible after October 1 of the year before you plan to enroll. FAFSA evaluates eligibility for need-based aid, including federal loans, and gives students access to need-based grants, scholarships, loans and work-study.
MSU does not have a separate financial aid application; however, aid is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted based upon receipt of the FAFSA. After MSU has received and processed your FAFSA, you will be able to view your financial aid package in MSU's secure student information system.
If you have a disability that substantially limits a life activity and would like to request a disability-related accommodation to participate in MSU programs, you should register with RCPD. Self-identification is voluntary and confidential.
Should you require special accommodations during your New Student Orientation (NSO), requests should be made by contacting the RCPD at least two weeks prior to your orientation date.
To expedite the accommodation process, please let the RCPD know if you have a physical, sensory, cognitive or psychological disability via secure and confidential web registration. You will need to have activated your MSU NetID in order to register. If you encounter problems registering online, call 517-884-RCPD. Once your request is received, an RCPD specialist will contact you to schedule a confidential assessment of your needs.
If you are an incoming domestic transfer student, you are not required to be covered by the MSU health insurance plan. However, you are eligible to voluntarily enroll in the MSU health insurance plan if you wish to do so.
If you are a graduate assistant, medical student or international student, you are required to be covered by adequate health insurance and you will automatically be enrolled in the MSU health insurance plan. If you can demonstrate that you have other coverage meeting the waiver criteria, you may apply for a waiver, unless you are an international student. Most international students do not have the option to waive the MSU health insurance. However, the University recognizes that, due to the novel coronavirus, many international students may remain outside the U.S. for the fall semester. If you are an international student and you fall into this situation, you may be allowed to waive the MSU health insurance for the fall semester.