College Comparison
Michigan State University vs Ohio State University-Main Campus
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Public
Public
Location
East Lansing, MI
Columbus, OH
Total Enrollment
52,089
61,443
Undergrad Enrollment
41,234
46,815
Student-Faculty Ratio
17:1
16:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
84.8%
60.6%
Average GPA
3.80
3.83
SAT Range
1180–1360
1310–1480
ACT Range
25–31
28–32
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$60
Total Applicants
62,138
72,829
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$29,001
$26,263
Avg Net Price
$24,630
$19,575
Tuition (In-State)
$16,437
$11,525
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$42,427
$35,782
Room & Board
$12,564
$14,738
% Receiving Aid
88.0%
70.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$9,750
$13,151
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
84.0%
83.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
66.0%
67.0%
Retention Rate
90.0%
94.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$67,253
$60,409
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Explore by Location
Michigan State is in East Lansing, MI
Ohio State is in Columbus, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Michigan State University is $24,630 per year, compared to $19,575 at Ohio State University-Main Campus. Ohio State University-Main Campus is $5,055 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Michigan State University typically score between 1180-1360 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At Ohio State University-Main Campus, the typical SAT range is 1310-1480. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Michigan State University has a graduation rate of 84%, while Ohio State University-Main Campus has a graduation rate of 83%. Michigan State University has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Michigan State University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1, while Ohio State University-Main Campus has a ratio of 16:1. Ohio State University-Main Campus offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Michigan State University, 88% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $9,750. At Ohio State University-Main Campus, 70% of students receive aid with an average grant of $13,151.
The median earnings for Michigan State University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $67,253, compared to $60,409 for Ohio State University-Main Campus graduates. Graduates from Michigan State University tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Michigan State University is located in East Lansing, MI in a city: small setting. Ohio State University-Main Campus is located in Columbus, OH in a city: large setting.

