As a result of moving the start date of Spring 2021 classes, the disbursement date for some Financial Aid and Scholarships was shifted from December 30, 2020 to January 4, 2021.
This will impact how your 1098-T information is reported for tax years 2020 and 2021.
Due to this change:
- For students who pre-registered for Spring 2021 before our holiday break, all reportable expenses will be reported on the 2020 1098-T.
- All Financial Aid and many Scholarships will be reported in Box 5 for the 2021 1098-T.
When working with your tax professional, please bring this to their attention so they may advise you on the best way to report expenses and scholarships/aid.
To view an account detail that itemizes your 1098-T box details, your student will need to complete the following steps:
- Login to my.msstate.edu
- Select the icon at the top left that looks like 3 horizontal lines
- Choose “Banner”
- Select “MyBanner for Students”
- Select “Tax Relief Act Information (1098-T)”
- Insert tax year = “2020” and press “Submit”
- Scroll down to view the “Supplemental Information”
- Click “Historical Account Detail”
Please remember, the 1098-T is not necessarily a "plug-and-play" document like a W-2 or 1099 but is rather an informational return required to claim the credit and it is up to the taxpayer to claim the correct amount based on individual circumstances. It is important that your tax professional understands the details in each box on the 1098-T.
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Forms will be mailed to your student’s
home address beginning January 31, 2021.
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For questions, please reach out to Account Services at
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The safety of our students is of the utmost importance to us.
Studying abroad can be such a highlight for many students. However, Due to COVID-19, many regulations have changed pertaining to international travel.
While studying abroad may not be a topic of conversation for your student at this time, it never hurts to know what MSU offers. In this newsletter, we will highlight MSU’s study abroad options along with competencies gained through traveling and studying abroad.
MSU is monitoring the guidelines and regulations related to international travel. MSU is addressing student international travel on a program-by-program basis at the time of each program’s application deadline. We are hopeful international travel will resume this summer but keeping our students safe and healthy is always going to be our first priority.
Please do not hesitate to call or email us with any questions or concerns. We are available to help you navigate through our available resources.
Cat Walker & Becky Faulk
Office of Parent & Family Services
Don't forget to scroll down to check out our important announcements
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February 9
Deadline for undergraduate students receiving incomplete grades in a previous semester to submit the coursework
March 2
Last day to drop a class with a
"W" grade (36th class day) 5:00 p.m.
Mid-point of semester
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March 19
Second progress grade reporting
deadline (end of week 10)
March 22 to April 1
Faculty advising for pre-registration
(Some departments begin advising earlier)
March 26
Last day to apply for May 2021
degree via myState with $50 fee
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FACULTY-LED PROGRAMS
These courses are designed and led by MSU faculty members where students receive MSU credit. Comprised of mostly MSU students, these courses are taught in groups abroad. Faculty-led program offerings change annually, and updated lists of faculty-led programs are usually released six to eight months prior to each program’s start date. These programs are short-term programs over the summer or spring break and range in length from one to ten weeks.
EXCHANGE PARTNERS
MSU students enroll directly at the host institution and receive transfer credit at MSU while paying tuition to MSU. Students maintain their student status at MSU during these programs. Some exchange programs are open only to students of a particular major. It is not always required to speak the language of the host country to study abroad at the host institution. Many universities have some or all coursework in English. These programs are long-term programs, either a semester or an academic year, with the option to extend.
PROVIDER COMPANIES
These programs are organized by an outside company working directly with universities abroad. MSU is partnered with 6 different companies to offer an even larger selection of programs than just those through the Faculty-led and Exchange options. Programs are comprised of students from across the United States. Classes are often taught in English; however, students with sufficient knowledge of a foreign language may choose to take foreign language courses and/or courses instructed in a foreign language. Students maintain their student status at MSU and receive transfer credit at MSU for courses taken abroad. These companies have options for both short (summer) and long-term programs (semester/academic year).
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COMPETENCIES GAINED
- Enhanced awareness of cultures and customs
- Adaptability
- Ability to identify and achieve goals
- General improvement in communication skills
- Increased confidence and initiative
- Greater flexibility
- Awareness of global, economic and political issues
- Increased language acquisition
- Comfort with uncertainty
- Ability to maintain an open mind and be tolerant of others
- Clarification of goals and improved self-awareness
- Resource management
- Organizational problem solving
- Crisis management
- Listening and observation
- Increased independence and self-reliance
- Stronger time-management skills
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HEALTH & SAFETY
The safety, security, and well-being of study abroad program participants are of utmost importance to MSU, the International Institute, and the Office of Study Abroad.
All students complete an application, which includes health information and emergency contact information. Students are required to complete an Outbound Orientation, purchase adequate international health and emergency assistance insurance, and register through the Department of State.
The Office of Study Abroad also emphasizes to students, faculty, and parents that all program participants must take responsibility for their own safety and security just as they would in their home communities.
To ensure added safety and health measures are taken, the Office of Study Abroad closely monitors U.S. State Department (DOS) Travel Advisories and Country Specific Risk Indicators at all times. Regular reviews of reports by the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO), as well as information provided by trusted security analysis services, local governments and media outlets are also made.
Rest assured; your students will be in good hands!
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SPOTLIGHT ON SPAIN
MSU undergraduate and graduate students are invited to a fun-filled educational opportunity to learn Spanish while studying in Alcalá de Henares, Spain, just 45 minutes outside of Madrid. These 4- and 8- week programs experience the sights and sounds of Spain while taking courses with local Spanish professors.
Students participating in the 4-week June program will earn 6 credits and students participating in the 8-week June & July program will earn 12 credits of Spanish towards their FLS requirements. Each of these programs partner with Alcalingua, the Spanish language school of La Universidad de Alcalá and include visits to museums and historical sites as well as excursions to the surrounding area.
Students seeking additional information about this once in a lifetime experience should check out the MSU Study Abroad Website.
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STUDENT TESTIMONIES
“I chose to study abroad because I realized the affordability and that the chance to live in a foreign country does not come often. I decided to start living my life to the fullest and took advantage of this awesome opportunity. Travelling helped me realize that there was so much more out that besides my little hometown and gave me more motivation to reach more ambitious goals. There are so many beautiful places out there that we should take advantage of while we can.
There are different programs, so everyone can find their dream destination and a time length they are comfortable with. But remember, you should also be trying to step out of your comfort zone. Parents, this is an opportunity for your child to branch out and see the world! They will appreciate you so much for allowing them to do something so life-changing, and they will appreciate home even more when they are back.”
Sara Ann W. | Fall 2019 | Australia
"I had always wanted to travel to Europe and studying abroad gave me the perfect opportunity because I could earn credits towards my degree while seeing new and exciting places. I can say with complete confidence that studying abroad is the best experience I in my college career. I achieved a sense of independence and global confidence.
For those students who are not sure study abroad is for them I would tell them there are so many programs and courses available, just talk to the Office of Study Abroad! If you have any anxiety about traveling to another country, know there is constant support and safety measures that allow students to have the best time possible and get the most out of their international experience."
Shelby M. | Summer 2018 | London
"I had never been out of the country, much less out of the southeastern region of the states. My major (Animal & Dairy Sciences) requires an “Experiential Learning” program and any study abroad program or internship counts. When I found out there was a study abroad program led by MSU faculty, I was immediately intrigued. I also knew that studying abroad would make me unique and diversify my resume. I was very hesitant going into the adventure but looking back, I see I had no reason to be.
I had an amazing experience, as did my classmates. Break out of your comfort zone and study abroad! It’s a once in a lifetime chance. You will learn so much, not only about another country’s culture, but also about yourself. I studied abroad the summer before my senior year this year and I wish I would have done a program earlier so I could have tried to do 2 study abroad programs. It simply is an amazing experience!"
Kristen C. | Summer 2017 | China
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MSU Class Ring Days
The MSU ring is a time-honored tradition at Mississippi State University just like cowbells and Bully. The MSU Class Ring is reserved exclusively for the following individuals:
- undergraduate students who have completed 60 credit hours
- transfer students who have completed 30 MSU hours
- graduate students who have completed all degree requirements
- alumni who have completed any of the above requirements
We encourage your student to be a part of the MSU ring tradition by participating in Ring Days from February 1-5 at the Hunter Henry Center from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. During MSU Ring Days, students will have the opportunity to view, try on rings, and be sized before ordering their MSU Class Ring. Students who order an official ring are invited to participate in the Class Ring Ceremony on April 13. Class Rings are presented to participants by MSU President Mark E. Keenum.
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Keeping Students Engaged
Aside from attending classes and studying, we know students need something to do to engage with other students. Help your students stay involved by reminding them to visit Cowbell Connect and view the events for the week. The calendar for the semester is available to view and updates often with new opportunities.
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It's never too early to encourage your student to explore their housing options (on- and off-campus). Remind your students to mark their calendars from February 15-18 for the Spring Housing Fair hosted by Off-Campus Student Services (OCSS). With over 15 properties participating, students can explore off-campus housing options without leaving campus.
The week will kick off with a Scavenger Hunt, Renter's Education session, an in-person Housing Fair (weather permitting), and end with a Virtual Housing Fair for anyone unable to attend the in-person event.
OCSS expects to host over 15 properties that students can explore without leaving campus.
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Upcoming Career Center Events
There are quite a few events scheduled with the Career Center this month that your student can view by visiting Career Center Events. Deadlines for co-ops and internships will soon be approaching. Encourage your student to speak with a member of the Career Center's team today by calling 662.325.3344.
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Black History Month
February 1 - 28
Mississippi State is hosting a variety of free programs on the Starkville campus to commemorate Black History Month, including a trivia night event and a Maroon Lounge Painting Experience. There will be plenty of opportunities for students to participate in person and virtually, as well as receive fun giveaways for participating.
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The Mississippi State University Alumni Delegates will hold its 15th Tuition Drawing in March to give one student the opportunity to win one academic semester of free in-state tuition. Any students returning for the fall 2021 semester are eligible to enter. The winner of the drawing will receive one in-state semester at MSU paid in full. Tickets must be purchased by March 15 through the Alumni Association. The winning ticket will be drawn March 25. The winner will be announced on the MSU Alumni Association’s social media accounts (@msstatealumni) the week of March 29.
The Alumni Delegates are thrilled to continue the drawing and provide a positive impact to the student whose lucky ticket is drawn. Their hope is to raise funds exceeding the cost of a semester of tuition and be able to use the proceeds to benefit programs and scholarships at Mississippi State.
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RSVP Housing for Fall/Spring
Current residents who wish to continue living in University Student Housing can now apply through the Renewal Selection Verification Process (RSVP) until March 31.
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Bully's Closet & Pantry
If your MSU Bulldog is looking for a way to give back to the community and their campus, Bully’s Closet and Pantry is seeking volunteers. Students can visit the Volunteer Portal and sign up for a time to assist with donations, re-stock inventory, and help shoppers as needed. This is a great opportunity for your student to network and support our food insecure students.
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Starkville Campus Commencement
April 29 & 30
Dates for Spring Commencement have been announced. Details regarding specific colleges are still pending. We will announcement all updates as soon as they become available.
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#HeresMyWhy “The COVID-19 vaccine is important to protect yourself and, more importantly, others that are at a higher risk for having complications,” says recently vaccinated MSU Physician Dr. Katrina Poe, who encourages the Bulldog family to do the same. Be safe. Be Cowbell Well.
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Make sure you mention #MSStateFamily when you make a post.
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