Total Cost Comparison (4 Years)
Estimated sticker price before financial aid.
ASU
$180,800
4-year total (out-of-state)
VS
MSU
$219,600
4-year total (out-of-state)
After average financial aid, estimated net cost: ASU = $131,200 | MSU = $166,000. Your actual cost may differ. Use each school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate.
ASU Top Majors
BusinessEngineeringPsychologyBiologySupply ChainMSU Top Majors
BusinessEngineeringBiologyCommunicationPsychology
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is ASU or MSU harder to get into?+
MSU is more selective with an acceptance rate of 83.0% compared to 88.0%. Both schools look at GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations in their admissions process.
Which is cheaper, ASU or MSU?+
At sticker price, ASU costs less over 4 years ($180,800 vs $219,600). However, financial aid can dramatically change the actual cost. ASU offers an average of $12,400/year in aid while MSU offers $13,400/year. Always compare your actual net price after aid.
What are the average SAT scores for ASU and MSU?+
The average SAT score at ASU is 1230 and at MSU it is 1210. Keep in mind that admitted students often score across a range, and many schools practice holistic admissions where test scores are just one factor.
Do ASU or MSU graduates earn more?+
Graduates of MSU have a higher average starting salary ($60,800 vs $60,100). Salary outcomes vary significantly by major, industry, and location — so this is a general average across all graduates.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at each school?+
ASU has a 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio while MSU has 17:1. A lower ratio generally means smaller class sizes and more individual attention from professors.
How do ASU and MSU compare for campus life?+
ASU is located in Tempe, Arizona (urban setting) with a 1,695-acre campus. MSU is in East Lansing, Michigan (suburban setting) with 5,200 acres. ASU competes in NCAA D1 athletics and MSU in NCAA D1.