Montana State University's Bozeman campus is anchored by Montana Hall, a central landmark since 1896 whose cupola is a major identifying image for the university, home to the Museum of the Rockies and the largest Tyrannosaurus rex skull ever found, with first-year students housed in halls including Lewis and Clark Hall, a WWII-era barracks-style dormitory.
Enrollment
17,165
Total Students
Freshman Class
3,718
Approx.
Move-In Dates
August 23 - August 24, 2026
Fall 2026
Acceptance Rate
84%
Most recent cycle
Move-In
Fall 2026 Move-In Dates
Sign-ups for a move-in time slot open at 9am MDT on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 through the Housing Portal. Early arrival before August 23 requires approval and a $75/night charge billed to your student account. Mail and packages won't be accepted before Monday, August 17, 2026 - please don't ship anything to arrive earlier than that date. A 2026 Move-In Parking Credential is available for download ahead of arrival.
August 23 - August 24, 2026
Check your assignment in the housing portal for your specific date and time.
Move-in day tips
- Arrive during your assigned window - early arrivals often just wait longer.
- Bring a rolling cart or hand truck; loading-zone carts run out fast.
- Parking near freshman halls fills up quickly - have a backup plan or drop-off spot.
- Loading zones usually enforce a strict time limit (often 30 minutes) before you're expected to move your car to long-term parking.
- Activate your student ID online before you arrive - many schools require it for building and elevator access from day one.
- If you want your bed lofted or the frame height adjusted, check whether your school needs that request submitted online in advance - most won't do it on the spot.
- Check your school's specific package-acceptance window before shipping anything ahead - most won't hold early deliveries outside a set date range.
- Unpack essentials first: bedding, toiletries, and chargers, before anything else.
Housing & Dorms
- Photo coming soon
Lewis and Clark Hall
Traditional · Coed
Housing Links
Links open Montana State University's website - not always the exact page, but a real starting point.
Orientation
Freshman Orientation & Class Registration (required)
All new students are required to attend one orientation session.
June 1 - August 22, 2026
Orientation tips
- Register as early as your class allows - popular session dates fill up first.
- Bring a parent/guardian if separate family programming is offered.
- Check whether placement testing or advising sign-ups happen the same day.
Costs
Room & Board
$11,500
Estimated / Year
Nearby Essentials
Nearby data coming soon.
More Links
Checklists
Get the Ultimate College Move-In Checklist
A free, printable packing checklist covering everything from bedding to important documents - built for any freshman, including yours at Montana State University.
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