Congratulations on your admission to Michigan State University and James Madison College! You're joining a community of students and faculty committed to understanding and shaping public affairs. Here's what to do next.
Your Major & Academic Journey
JMC students don't need to select a major right away. You'll spend your first semesters taking foundational courses that introduce you to JMC's interdisciplinary approach to public affairs, and you'll choose your major midway through your first year. In the meantime, you can explore what each major covers on the majors and minors page.
Scholarships
JMC offers several scholarships for incoming students, ranging from $1,500 to $7,000 and many renewable for up to four years. The application window for Fall 2026 scholarships has closed, but applying Early Action by Nov. 1 each year ensures maximum consideration for university-wide scholarship opportunities. Once enrolled, JMC students can also apply for continuing student scholarships throughout their time at the college.
Visit Campus
Seeing JMC in person is one of the best ways to know if it's the right fit. Admitted students and families are invited to Meet Madison Days, held from 2 to 4 p.m. on Jan. 16, Feb. 16, March 13, March 27, April 10, and April 17. During these events you'll hear from faculty and advisors, participate in a mini-class led by a JMC professor, tour Case Hall, and connect with current students.
MSU's next Admitted Student Day will be held on April 11, 2026. JMC will host sessions throughout the day in Case Hall, including panels on law school preparation, career paths in public affairs, and navigating campus life.
Can't make it to campus? Individual visits may be available based on staff availability. Contact the JMC Recruitment Office at jmcadmin@msu.edu to inquire.
If you're wrestling with last-minute questions, we'd love to help answer them! We're hosting a virtual session on April 23 at 6 pm. Bring your questions about anything and everything, including academic advising, study abroad, internships, residential-college life, student orgs and life after Madison. This event will begin with a short presentation, then open for questions. Register to attend via MSU's Admissions portal.
Consider Early Start
The Early Start Program gives incoming first-generation JMC students the opportunity to begin coursework, build community, and get acclimated to college life before the fall semester begins. It's a great way for new Madisonians to get a head start on their JMC experience.
Life in Case Hall
JMC is a residential college, and Case Hall is the center of the living-learning community. You'll live, study, and attend classes in the same building alongside other JMC students. Curious about what the residential spaces look like? Take a 360° virtual tour of a Case Hall room or learn more about MSU housing and move-in.
Hear from Current Students
Want to know what life at JMC is really like? Watch the JMC Student Stories series on YouTube, where current Madisonians share their experiences with academics, internships, study abroad, and campus life.
Get Connected
Follow JMC on Instagram to see what's happening at the college. Have questions? Reach the JMC Recruitment Office at jmcadmin@msu.edu or (517) 353-5260.