There are several admission categories for students who meet minimum age requirements and who wish to take courses but do not wish to pursue a degree.

Non-degree Post Baccalaureate: Students who have a bachelor's degree and wish to enroll in up to a full-time course load with no restrictions on total hours may apply under this classification. Students should provide the application for admission form, application fee, and copy of their diploma or transcript showing bachelor's degree awarded.

Completion Program: Students who have completed an associate of arts degree and wish to take Missouri State University-West Plains courses in pursuit of a bachelor's degree through Missouri State University are eligible to apply under this classification. Students should provide the West Plains application for admission form and a Missouri State University-Springfield Application for Admission (available in the Missouri State University Academic Outreach Office) must be completed. Official transcripts are required from each previous college or university. Students must have a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale to be admitted under this classification. Students in this classification are eligible to apply for financial aid but must contact the Office of Financial Aid at (417) 255-7243 for procedures. Students must contact the Missouri State University Academic Outreach Office at (417) 255-7931 for additional requirements.

Non-degree: Students 18 years of age and older or a high school graduate may apply under this classification. Students should provide the application for admission form and application fee. Transcripts are not required. Enrollment while in this category is limited to eight credit hours per semester up to a total of 24 hours. Students are not eligible to apply for financial aid while in this classification. Non-degree students must meet the prerequisite if a class has one.