Starting your MBA journey and getting a $500 head start 🥳. That’s exactly what the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is offering right now to new students enrolling in their fully online MBA program.
If you’ve been thinking about getting an MBA but costs have been holding you back, this opportunity might just be your sign.
What’s the Deal with This $500 Tuition Credit?
USM is offering a $500 Online Student Scholarship exclusively for first-time, fully online students. Whether you’re fresh out of undergrad or finally returning to school after years in the workforce, if you’re new to their online system, you could qualify.
The credit goes directly toward your first semester’s tuition, helping to ease the financial pinch when starting out.
But here’s the catch: Only two graduate students per semester get this scholarship so it’s very competitive, and timing is everything.
Why This Online MBA Is Worth It
Let’s be honest, not all online degrees are created equal. But this one’s a solid bet.
- 🏫 Accredited by AACSB (a top-tier business accreditation)
- 💻 100% online and flexible—perfect if you’re working or parenting
- 🌎 In-state tuition for everyone, no matter where you live
- ⏳ Finish in about 2 years, even while working full-time
It’s a practical, respected MBA from a public university that’s ranked among the top part-time MBA programs in the U.S.
Let’s Talk Numbers
- 💵 Graduate tuition is around $578.12 per credit hour
- The program has 30 credit hours, so total tuition is around $17,343
- But that $500 scholarship helps cut that down right off the bat
- Small additional course fees may apply (think $20–$150 per course)
It’s not “cheap,” but it’s way more affordable than most private programs—plus, the value holds up thanks to its reputation and flexibility.
Do You Qualify for the Scholarship?
Here’s what you need to be eligible:
- ✔️ Be a first-time, fully online student
- ✔️ Apply before the semester starts (at least 1 week early)
- ✔️ Have a minimum 2.5 GPA in your undergrad
- ✔️ Complete the scholarship application after admission
Once you’re admitted into the MBA program, just head over to the university’s scholarship portal and submit your scholarship form. That’s it.
Admission Requirements You Should Know
Getting into the program is straightforward, but here’s what they’ll need from you:
- 📝 Transcripts from previous schools
- 📄 Resume
- ✍️ Statement of purpose
- 🧑💼 Two letters of recommendation
- 🧠 There are currently no GRE or GMAT requirements for this program
Not a business major? No problem. You might just need to take a few foundational courses before jumping into the core MBA.
How to Apply
- ✅ Apply for the MBA program via👇https://online.usm.edu/scholarships
- ✅ Submit your scholarship application at least one week before classes begin
- ✅ Register, pay your tuition (minus $500, if you win), and get started
Fall, spring, and summer intakes are usually available, so you won’t have to wait too long to begin.
So, Is It Worth It?
If you want an affordable, flexible, and credible online MBA with real financial support, Southern Miss is offering a rare combo. The $500 scholarship won’t cover everything, but it’s a welcome bonus that shows they’re serious about helping students succeed.
Whether you’re looking to climb the corporate ladder, pivot careers, or launch your own venture, this could be your perfect stepping stone.
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