Here's what Montana State University actually looks for, pulled from the real admitted-student numbers — not a wish list. Use these as the bar to clear, then see where your own profile lands.
The admitted middle 50% lands at 3.0–3.7, so this is reachable with solid grades and a coherent application.
Most admitted students score in the 1065–1285 SAT / 21–27 ACT range. Many selective schools are test-optional right now — check Montana State University's current policy, but a score inside this band only helps.
Hitting these numbers gets you into the pile. It doesn't get you in. Montana State University accepts 82.1% of applicants, which means most students with the "right" GPA and scores still get turned down. Course rigor, essays, recommendations, and a clear spike are what separate admits from the rest of the qualified pool.
Want your real number instead of a range? Run your full profile and Candor estimates your odds at Montana State University, calibrated to actual outcomes.
Ranges are CDS-based estimates from recent cycles. Always confirm current requirements and test policy on Montana State University's official admissions site before you apply.