College Comparison
Michigan State University vs University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh 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
Pittsburgh, PA
Total Enrollment
52,089
35,724
Undergrad Enrollment
41,234
25,900
Student-Faculty Ratio
17:1
13:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
84.8%
58.1%
Average GPA
3.80
3.89
SAT Range
1180–1360
1280–1460
ACT Range
25–31
29–33
Test Policy
Optional
Optional
Application Fee
$65
$55
Total Applicants
62,138
60,898
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$29,001
$33,380
Avg Net Price
$24,630
$24,338
Tuition (In-State)
$16,437
$19,760
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$42,427
$36,000
Room & Board
$12,564
$13,620
% Receiving Aid
88.0%
53.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$9,750
$16,494
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
84.0%
84.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
66.0%
70.0%
Retention Rate
90.0%
92.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$67,253
$66,125
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Explore by Location
Michigan State is in East Lansing, MI
Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus is in Pittsburgh, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Michigan State University is $24,630 per year, compared to $24,338 at Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus. Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus is $292 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 Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus, the typical SAT range is 1280-1460. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Michigan State University has a graduation rate of 84%, while Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus has a graduation rate of 84%. Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus has a ratio of 13:1. Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh 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 Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus, 53% of students receive aid with an average grant of $16,494.
The median earnings for Michigan State University graduates 10 years after enrollment is $67,253, compared to $66,125 for Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh 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. Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus is located in Pittsburgh, PA in a city: large setting.

