Established in 1878, Mississippi State University is a non-profit public state higher-education institution located in the rural setting of the large town of Mississippi State (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), Mississippi. This institution also has a branch campus in Meridian. Officially accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Mississippi State University (MSU) is a large coeducational US higher education institution. Mississippi State University (MSU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor degrees, master degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 144 years old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic record and grades. The admission rate range is 50-60% making this US higher education organization a averagely selective institution. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. MSU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.