College Comparison
Michigan State University vs Pennsylvania 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
University Park, PA
Total Enrollment
52,089
50,737
Undergrad Enrollment
41,234
42,604
Student-Faculty Ratio
17:1
16:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
84.8%
60.6%
Average GPA
3.80
3.87
SAT Range
1180–1360
1240–1420
ACT Range
25–31
27–32
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$65
Total Applicants
62,138
88,478
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$29,001
$34,330
Avg Net Price
$24,630
$27,450
Tuition (In-State)
$16,437
$19,286
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$42,427
$38,102
Room & Board
$12,564
$15,044
% Receiving Aid
88.0%
37.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$9,750
$11,336
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
84.0%
86.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
66.0%
71.0%
Retention Rate
90.0%
93.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$67,253
$63,435
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Michigan State is in East Lansing, MI
Penn State is in University Park, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Michigan State University is $24,630 per year, compared to $27,450 at Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus. Michigan State University is $2,820 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 Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus, the typical SAT range is 1240-1420. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Michigan State University has a graduation rate of 84%, while Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus has a graduation rate of 86%. Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Michigan State University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1, while Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus has a ratio of 16:1. Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus, 37% of students receive aid with an average grant of $11,336.
The median earnings for Michigan State University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $67,253, compared to $63,435 for Pennsylvania 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. Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus is located in University Park, PA in a city: small setting.