About

About Ferris State University

professional programs focushigh acceptance ratehealth sciences strengthdoctoral level institutionarts and design

Ferris State University is a public university in Big Rapids, MI, known for its professional programs focus, high acceptance rate, and health sciences strength. With an acceptance rate of 88%, FSU is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 1,744 students each year. FSU is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 400–1120, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. FSU offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $12,323 per year; the sticker price of $26,418 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Ferris State University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

88%
Overall Accept Rate
2.50
Typical Admitted GPA
760
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 400 – 1120 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Ferris State University

Application Strategy
Ferris State is known for its career-focused, hands-on programs like pharmacy, optometry, and skilled trades. Connect your specific program choice to your career goals directly in your application materials, since the school places real emphasis on professional preparation over abstract academic interests.
Essay Strategy
Ferris State rates essays as only moderately important, so keep yours focused and clear rather than trying to write something elaborate. Use it to explain specifically why a Ferris program fits your career path, not to tell a sweeping personal story.

Financial Aid & Cost

What Ferris State University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceAvg. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$26k/yr$2.6k
30k-48k~$26k/yr$4.3k
48k-75k~$26k/yr$7.6k
75k-110k~$26k/yr$12.5k
110k+~$26k/yr$18.6k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

48%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$47k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
15:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
7,416
Undergrad Enrollment

Student Body

Student body composition

Race & Ethnicity

73%White
10%Black / African American
7%Hispanic
3%Unknown / Unreported
3%Two or More Races
2%Asian
1%International
1%American Indian / AK Native
0%Native Hawaiian / Pacific Islander
Gender46% Men · 54% Women
Citizenship / Immigration Status99% Citizens and Immigrants · 1% International
FSU, Big Rapids Acceptance Rate & Admissions | SpearMatch