UNITED STATES · ITTA BENA
Mississippi Valley State University
public · Founded 1950 · Languages: en
In short
Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) is a public HBCU in Itta Bena, Mississippi, offering undergraduate and graduate programs with a unique mandatory Community Service Learning requirement. International students are welcomed, with specific admission and financial documentation needed.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1950
- Students
- 2,032
- International students
- 80
- Acceptance rate
- 95%
- Tuition (intl)
- €8–10k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Itta Bena, United States
Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) is a historically Black public university in Itta Bena, Mississippi, founded in 1950. With approximately 2,000 students, MVSU offers undergraduate and graduate programmes in education, social work, natural sciences, criminal justice, and communications. The university's motto — 'Live for Service' — is embedded in a mandatory Community Service Learning requirement, ensuring graduates contribute meaningfully to their communities. MVSU is a Thurgood Marshall College Fund member and competes in NCAA Division I athletics.
Why study here
- Mandatory Community Service Learning program fosters civic responsibility and provides real-world experience.
- Emphasis on preparing students for diverse careers and further academic pursuits.
- Dedicated financial aid office assists students with funding through grants, loans, and scholarships.
- Opportunities for academic scholarships based on merit and financial need.
- Prison Education Partnership Program and other outreach initiatives reflect a deep commitment to educational access.
Student life
MVSU offers a close-knit campus community embedded in the Mississippi Delta. Students participate in Greek life, student government, NCAA Division I athletics (Delta Devils), and a wide range of cultural programmes that celebrate the university's HBCU heritage. The small campus size means students receive personalised attention and build strong networks with faculty and staff.
Fees
InternationalApproximately EUR 7,500–10,000 per year for international undergraduate students
HomeApproximately EUR 5,500–7,000 per year for in-state students
LivingApproximately EUR 8,000–9,000 per year for room, board, and personal expenses in Itta Bena
International students must demonstrate sufficient financial support. On-campus housing is available. Financial aid is primarily available to US citizens and eligible non-citizens.
Admissions
High School DiplomaB average or above in laboratory science, social studies, and mathematics
Standardized TestsACT score of 21+ or SAT score of 1060–1090 (may be waived for eligible transfer applicants)
Financial SponsorshipAffidavit of financial sponsorship and bank statements for last 6 months
Evaluated TranscriptsCourse-by-course evaluation from WES, GCE, or equivalent for foreign transcripts
TOEFL525 (paper-based) or 195 (computer-based)
IELTS5.5
Duolingo90
PTE42
Rankings
U.S. News HBCU Rankings30
University scholarships
Presidential Academic ScholarshipCompetitive; based on merit and financial need (deadline Feb 1)
Vice President's ScholarshipCompetitive; based on merit and financial need (deadline Feb 1)
Valedictorian/Salutatorian ScholarshipAwarded to top high school graduates (deadline June 15)
Transfer Scholarship – ValleyCompetitive; for qualifying transfer students (deadline June 15)
Accreditation
Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Individual programmes hold professional accreditation from NCATE/CAEP (education) and CSWE (social work).
For international students
United StatesStudent visa & funds
International students primarily enter on the F-1 visa, which requires enrolment at a SEVP-certified institution. Before the visa interview the school issues a Form I-20 — a certificate of eligibility — for which a Designated School Official must verify documented funds covering tuition, living expenses and travel for the first year, plus a reliable source for subsequent years. The financial evidence must be specific and from an identified source.
Working while you study
F-1 students may work on campus up to 20 hours per week while classes are in session and full-time during official breaks, with no separate authorization needed. Off-campus work is generally not permitted in the first academic year. After one academic year in good standing, students may use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) for paid work that is an integral part of the curriculum, authorized by the school; other off-campus work requires an approved Employment Authorization Document from USCIS.
After you graduate
After completing a degree, F-1 students may apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) — up to 12 months of work authorization in a related field — by filing Form I-765 and receiving an EAD before starting work. Graduates of a degree on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List may apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, for up to 36 months total. The extension requires an E-Verify employer and a qualifying STEM degree earned within the previous ten years.
English tests
- IELTSUG 6.0–6.5; PG 6.5–7.0; top-tier programs 7.0–7.5
- TOEFL iBTUG 80–100; PG 90–110; selective research universities 100+
- PTE AcademicUG 50–60; PG 55–70; highly selective programs 65+
Main intakes
AugustJanuary
Typical living cost
€1,420/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
SourcesStudy in the States — Students and the Form I-20 · Study in the States — Financial ability · USCIS — Students and employment · USCIS — Optional Practical Training (OPT) for F-1 students · USCIS — STEM OPT extension · LeapScholar — Minimum IELTS scores for USA universities · Mastersportal — Student living costs in the USA (2025–2026)
Programs
a selectionMississippi Valley State University · United States
Bachelor of Arts in Music Education
The Music Education program at Mississippi Valley State University offers undergraduate degrees designed to prepare students for careers as skilled and inspiring music educators. The program is part of the Fine Arts Department and is open to all students, aiming to provide cultural enrichment to the university and surrounding community. Students can specialize in instrumental, vocal, or keyboard music, as well as music composition. The curriculum combines in-depth music theory, performance, and teaching methods with practical classroom experience.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Mississippi Valley State University · United States
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program at Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) is designed to prepare undergraduate students for successful careers within the criminal justice system and related public and private organizations. It also provides a strong foundation for those considering graduate studies. The curriculum offers comprehensive coverage of law enforcement, courts, and corrections, including specialized areas like private security, industrial security, community corrections, and the juvenile justice system. This broad scope ensures graduates have flexibility in their career choices. The program also caters to individuals currently working in criminal justice who wish to advance their education.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Mississippi Valley State University · United States
Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)
The Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program at Mississippi Valley State University is designed to prepare students for entry-level social work positions and graduate studies. The curriculum is grounded in the person-in-environment perspective, blending values, knowledge, and skills for ethical practice. A special focus of the program is on the needs of impoverished minorities in rural and urban regions, particularly within the Mississippi Delta. Students will learn to empower client populations through advocacy for social and economic changes. The program emphasizes family and child welfare, equipping graduates to address complex social, emotional, and environmental factors impacting children and families. Through coursework and extensive field education in community agencies, students gain hands-on experience. The BSW program is fully accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), ensuring a high standard of professional preparation.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Mississippi Valley State University · United States
General Studies (BA)
The Bachelor of Arts in General Studies is designed for students seeking flexibility in their academic pursuits. This program allows you to tailor your studies to meet specific career goals and work requirements, while ensuring a stimulating intellectual experience. You will work closely with academic advisors to select two or three concentrations from a wide range of undergraduate offerings across the university. The degree emphasizes academic integrity and requires a minimum of 120 semester hours with a 2.00 cumulative GPA.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Mississippi Valley State University · United States
Graduate Studies
Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) offers a range of graduate programs through its School of Graduate Studies. To be admitted, applicants must meet both university-wide admission criteria and specific requirements for their chosen program. The university emphasizes a holistic review of applications, considering professionalism, accuracy of information, and communication skills alongside academic qualifications. Prospective students apply through the MVSU Graduate Application system. It is crucial to check the specific website of the graduate program for any additional application materials or unique requirements. International students have specific admission procedures and should contact the Office of International Programs for detailed guidance. The application process is designed to ensure that admitted students are well-prepared for advanced study and align with the university's academic standards.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Mississippi Valley State University · United States
Master of Arts in Teaching
The Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) program at Mississippi Valley State University is designed to cultivate educators and school leaders who embody high academic, moral, and spiritual standards. This program focuses on developing your understanding of best practices in the classroom, encouraging critical and innovative thinking based on research and reflection. You will enhance your knowledge through active learning, problem-solving, and exploration to become a well-rounded educator.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for United States
full fundingDuke University
Karsh International Scholarship Program
Open to international (non-U.S. citizen, non-permanent-resident) high school students applying for first-year undergraduate admission to Duke University. Candidates must demonstrate financial need through Duke's need-based aid process, show interdisciplinary academic curiosity, and have a record of community engagement. There is no separate scholarship form; international applicants who indicate they are applying for financial aid are automatically considered for the Karsh award.
full
Funding
€320k
Max
Jan 2, 2027
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of Miami (with the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation)
University of Miami Stamps Scholarship
Open to high school seniors, both domestic (U.S.) and international, applying for first-year undergraduate admission to the University of Miami through Early Decision I or Early Action. Applicants are automatically considered with no separate scholarship form; they must submit all first-year admission requirements and demonstrate strong academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Semi-finalists complete a Zoom interview.
full
Funding
€260k
Max
Nov 1, 2026
Deadline
full fundingQuestBridge
QuestBridge National College Match Scholarship
Open to high-achieving US high school seniors from low-income backgrounds who are US citizens, permanent residents, or students studying in the US regardless of citizenship. Competitive applicants typically earn mostly A's in challenging courses, rank in the top 5-10% of their class, and have strong standardised test results (SAT/PSAT above 1310 or ACT above 28), though each application is read in context. Applicants must demonstrate strong writing, intellectual curiosity and determination through essays and recommendations. Matched students must attend a partner college as a binding-early-decision commitment.
full
Funding
€185k
Max
Sep 26, 2026
Deadline
full fundingArgonne National Laboratory
Maria Goeppert Mayer Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory
Open to early-career scientists and engineers of all nationalities who hold a PhD awarded within the last three years at the time of application, or who will complete the PhD before the fellowship start date. Research interests must align with Argonne's mission areas. U.S. citizenship is required for national-security-related projects (Detection of Imaging Signatures).
full
Funding
€130k
Max
Oct 1, 2026
Deadline
partial fundingBoustany Foundation / Harvard Business School
Boustany MBA Harvard Scholarship
Open to candidates of any nationality (priority to those of Lebanese descent) who have received an offer of admission to the Harvard MBA programme and have a strong academic background.
partial
Funding
€100k
Max
May 31, 2027
Deadline
full fundingStanford University
Knight-Hennessy Scholars
Open to citizens of any country who earned their first/bachelor's degree within the last ~7 years (or will by the Stanford start) and who apply for and gain admission to a full-time Stanford graduate program. Selection seeks independence of thought, purposeful leadership, and a civic mindset.
full
Funding
€90k
Max
Oct 8, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the estimated annual fees for international undergraduate students at Mississippi Valley State University?
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International undergraduate students can expect annual fees to be approximately EUR 7,500–10,000. This estimate covers tuition and other academic charges. International students must also demonstrate sufficient financial support to cover their studies and living expenses.
What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?
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International students from non-English speaking countries are required to submit English proficiency scores. Accepted tests include TOEFL with a score of 525 (paper-based) or 195 (computer-based), IELTS with a 5.5, Duolingo with a 90, or PTE with a 42.
What academic qualifications are needed for admission?
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Applicants need a High School Diploma with a B average or above in laboratory science, social studies, and mathematics. Standardized test scores are also considered, with a minimum ACT score of 21+ or SAT score of 1060–1090, though these may be waived for eligible transfer students.
What financial documentation is required for international students?
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International students must provide an Affidavit of financial sponsorship and bank statements for the last six months. This documentation is necessary to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover educational and living costs.
Does Mississippi Valley State University offer scholarships for international students?
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Mississippi Valley State University offers several academic scholarships, such as the Presidential Academic Scholarship, Vice President's Scholarship, and Transfer Scholarship – Valley. These are awarded competitively based on merit and financial need, with specific application deadlines.
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