Jackson, MSprivate nonprofitwww.millsaps.edu/
Millsaps College is a small, selective liberal arts college in Jackson, Mississippi, where intellectual curiosity meets Southern charm. Known for its rigorous academics and tight-knit community, Millsaps graduates boast earnings $24,000 above the regional average—proof that its focus on critical thinking and leadership pays off. With a 43% acceptance rate and a campus life that balances academic intensity with modest social scenes, it’s a place where students dive deep into majors like business, biology, and neuroscience while forging close connections with faculty.
Millsaps College is selective, with an Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. of 43.1% (1,009 admitted out of 2,340 applicants). Middle 50% test scores for admitted students fall between 1130–1360 SAT or 28 ACT, though the college offers a Test-optionalA policy where you choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you don't, the rest of your application carries more weight. pathway. Enrollment YieldThe share of admitted students who actually choose to enroll. Colleges watch it closely, which is why some weigh how interested you seem. is modest, with 547 students matriculating from the admitted pool. The admissions process emphasizes Holistic admissionsA review that weighs the whole applicant — grades, essays, activities, and context — rather than relying on test scores and GPA alone., considering high school GPA, college prep courses, and extracurricular involvement alongside test scores (if submitted).
Millsaps leans into its liberal arts identity, encouraging exploration across 30+ majors and minors, from neuroscience to business administration. The most popular majors are Business (27%), Biology (16%), and Accounting (9%), with biology degrees notably specialized (40 awarded in recent data). Small class sizes and a student-faculty ratio of 9:1 foster close mentorship. The curriculum emphasizes independent thinking and hands-on learning, with programs like the Else School of Management anchoring its reputation in the region. One student sums it up: 'Millsaps is very academic—it’s not a place to coast.'
Life at Millsaps is tightly woven, with 88% of students living on campus in a mix of historic and modern residence halls. Social life is moderate—think campus events like Homecoming Week and student orgs (from spiritual groups to arts clubs) rather than raucous parties. The college promotes involvement through 'Get Involved' initiatives, including leadership programs and community service. Athletics (NCAA Division III) and Greek life (30% participation) add structure, but the vibe leans more toward 'late-night coffee shop debates' than 'frat row.'
Millsaps delivers on ROI: Four years post-graduation, alumni earn a median $70,977—$23,952 above the regional average and the highest among Mississippi colleges. The 6-year graduation rate is 67% for non-Pell Grant recipients but drops to 36% for Pell recipients, highlighting a socioeconomic gap. Early-career earnings ($36,427 at one year out) ramp up significantly, suggesting the value of Millsaps’ liberal arts foundation in mid-career advancement. Notably, 95% of graduates are employed or in grad school within six months.
Tuition sits at $45,570, with total annual costs (including room/board) reaching $62,340. However, 68% of students receive financial aid, with an average package of $41,609—slashing the Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. to $26,739 for many. Merit scholarships are robust, including automatic awards covering 50% of tuition for qualifying local JPS scholars. The college actively promotes its net price calculator to demystify costs, and its aid packages lean heavily on grants over loans.
Millsaps is Mississippi’s academic heavyweight, marrying rigorous liberal arts training with Southern hospitality. Its top-tier earnings outcomes defy stereotypes about humanities degrees, while programs like neuroscience and business attract regional talent. The campus culture—intimate but not insular—rewards students who thrive on debate and professor access. For those seeking a small-college experience with big financial returns, Millsaps punches far above its weight.