Total Cost Comparison (4 Years)
Estimated sticker price before financial aid.
MSU
$219,600
4-year total (out-of-state)
VS
Michigan
$281,648
4-year total (out-of-state)
After average financial aid, estimated net cost: MSU = $166,000 | Michigan = $190,928. Your actual cost may differ. Use each school's Net Price Calculator for a personalized estimate.
MSU Top Majors
BusinessEngineeringBiologyCommunicationPsychologyMichigan Top Majors
BusinessEngineeringComputer ScienceEconomicsPsychology
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is MSU or Michigan harder to get into?+
Michigan is more selective with an acceptance rate of 17.7% compared to 83.0%. Both schools look at GPA, test scores, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendations in their admissions process.
Which is cheaper, MSU or Michigan?+
At sticker price, MSU costs less over 4 years ($219,600 vs $281,648). However, financial aid can dramatically change the actual cost. MSU offers an average of $13,400/year in aid while Michigan offers $22,680/year. Always compare your actual net price after aid.
What are the average SAT scores for MSU and Michigan?+
The average SAT score at MSU is 1210 and at Michigan it is 1470. 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 MSU or Michigan graduates earn more?+
Graduates of Michigan have a higher average starting salary ($73,400 vs $60,800). 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?+
MSU has a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio while Michigan has 12:1. A lower ratio generally means smaller class sizes and more individual attention from professors.
How do MSU and Michigan compare for campus life?+
MSU is located in East Lansing, Michigan (suburban setting) with a 5,200-acre campus. Michigan is in Ann Arbor, Michigan (urban setting) with 3,207 acres. MSU competes in NCAA D1 athletics and Michigan in NCAA D1.