College Comparison
Michigan State University vs Purdue 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
West Lafayette, IN
Total Enrollment
52,089
58,658
Undergrad Enrollment
41,234
44,819
Student-Faculty Ratio
17:1
14:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
84.8%
49.9%
Average GPA
3.80
3.90
SAT Range
1180–1360
1200–1480
ACT Range
25–31
27–34
Test Policy
Optional
Required
Application Fee
$65
$60
Total Applicants
62,138
78,745
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$29,001
$22,533
Avg Net Price
$24,630
$12,421
Tuition (In-State)
$16,437
$9,718
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$42,427
$28,520
Room & Board
$12,564
$12,815
% Receiving Aid
88.0%
40.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$9,750
$11,294
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
84.0%
77.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
66.0%
58.0%
Retention Rate
90.0%
93.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$67,253
$72,424
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Explore by Location
Michigan State is in East Lansing, MI
Purdue is in West Lafayette, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Michigan State University is $24,630 per year, compared to $12,421 at Purdue University-Main Campus. Purdue University-Main Campus is $12,209 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 Purdue University-Main Campus, the typical SAT range is 1200-1480. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Michigan State University has a graduation rate of 84%, while Purdue University-Main Campus has a graduation rate of 77%. 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 Purdue University-Main Campus has a ratio of 14:1. Purdue 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 Purdue University-Main Campus, 40% of students receive aid with an average grant of $11,294.
The median earnings for Michigan State University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $67,253, compared to $72,424 for Purdue University-Main Campus graduates. Graduates from Purdue University-Main Campus 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. Purdue University-Main Campus is located in West Lafayette, IN in a city: small setting.