Minority Serving Institution (MSI)

Umbrella term for nearly 700 institutions in the U.S. who admit and serve a significant percentage of minority students. MSIs can be found in almost every state and territory. Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) are the most well-known MSIs, but other categories include Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) and Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs). A school must apply for the Minority Serving Institution designation with the federal government. Attending an MSI offers many benefits, including a diverse student body as it pertains to race, ethnicity and gender. Robust academic support programs, career planning, leadership opportunities and higher graduation rates are also key advantages to attending a MSI.