Metropolitan State University is a public university in the Twin Cities metropolitan area, with its main campus in Saint Paul and instructional sites in Minneapolis and Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. Founded in 1971 with a mission to serve non-traditional and adult learners whose needs were not met by existing institutions, Metro State has grown to serve over 7,500 students. The university does not field intercollegiate athletic teams, reflecting its focus on academic achievement and career preparation for working adults, career changers, and first-generation college students. Metro State offers bachelor's and master's degrees across business, nursing, education, computer science, social work, criminal justice, and the liberal arts, with a strong emphasis on practical, career-relevant learning. The university is recognized for individualized learning approaches, competency-based programs, and deep connections to Twin Cities employers. Notably, Metro State charges the same tuition rate for in-state and out-of-state students, providing equitable access regardless of residency. The diverse student population—with 45% students of color and approximately 3% international students—reflects the Twin Cities' vibrant multicultural community and the institution's longstanding commitment to educational equity and social mobility.
Visa, OPT, H-1B alumni outcomes, and acceptance rates by country — sourced from FOIA, USCIS H-1B Hub, and DHS SEVIS.
The deep admissions playbook beyond the headline acceptance rate — round-by-round breakdowns, nationality data, requirements, and contact paths.
Domestic
—
/yr
Out-of-State / Intl
$11515
/yr
Beyond the sticker price — every named scholarship, the financial aid policy, need-aware notes, and a personalized net-cost estimate.
How life on campus actually feels — clubs, sports, traditions, housing realities, and how the school integrates with its city.
Where alumni go after graduation — top industries, grad-school continuation, and the qualitative outcomes story.
Sticker price (annual, out-of-state): $9,840
Net-cost estimate is US-resident-only — international applicants are typically excluded from need-based aid at most schools and should treat the sticker price as the planning baseline.
