About

About Michigan State University

big ten research universityhigh acceptance ratestrong stem programslarge public universityland grant institution

Michigan State University is a public research university in East Lansing, MI, known for its high acceptance rate, strong stem programs, and land grant institution. With an acceptance rate of 88%, MSU is accessible for most qualified applicants, typically enrolling around 9,829 students each year. MSU is test optional; students who submit scores are typically admitted with SATs between 1100–1310, though many competitive applicants choose not to submit. MSU offers merit scholarships regardless of financial need, with awards averaging $9,755 per year; the sticker price of $56,274 may look very different from what your family actually pays.

Admissions

Michigan State University acceptance rate and admitted student profile

accessible for most qualified applicants

88%
Overall Accept Rate
3.75
Typical Admitted GPA
1205
Median Admitted SAT
SATSubmitted score range: 1100 – 1310 (test optional)

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Application Strategy

Strategy tips for applying to Michigan State University

Essay Strategy
MSU rates essays as moderately important, so use your personal statement to show genuine enthusiasm for your specific program at MSU, whether that is Eli Broad College of Business, the College of Engineering, or another college, rather than writing a generic story about yourself.
Application Strategy
When applying to MSU, apply directly to your intended college or program rather than undecided, because programs like Nursing, Engineering, and Business have their own admission criteria and applying directly shows focus and readiness.

Financial Aid & Cost

What Michigan State University actually costs your family

Average net prices by income bracket from College Scorecard data.

Family IncomeSticker PriceAvg. Net Cost / yr
0-30k~$56k/yr$7.1k
30k-48k~$56k/yr$10.8k
48k-75k~$56k/yr$16.5k
75k-110k~$56k/yr$22.7k
110k+~$56k/yr$28.5k

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Outcomes & Campus

Student outcomes and campus profile

82%
6-Year Graduation Rate
$55k
Median Earnings (6 yrs)
16:1
Student-Faculty Ratio
37,228
Undergrad Enrollment

Student Body

Student body composition

Race & Ethnicity

67%White
8%Asian
7%Hispanic
7%Black / African American
5%International
4%Two or More Races
2%Unknown / Unreported
0%American Indian / AK Native
0%Native Hawaiian / Pacific Islander
Gender48% Men · 52% Women
Citizenship / Immigration Status95% Citizens and Immigrants · 5% International