Overview
Michigan State University is a accessible public four-year institution in East Lansing, Michigan. The school accepts 88.0% of applicants and enrolls 40,243 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 88.0%
- Average SAT
- 1,260
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,160–1,360
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 28
- Total Enrollment
- 40,243
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Michigan State accepts most applicants through their standard application process, but you'll need to submit your application, transcripts, and test scores by November 1 for priority consideration or February 1 for regular admission. The university uses a rolling admissions system, so applying earlier gives you better housing options and scholarship opportunities.
Engineering programs at MSU are significantly more competitive than the general university admission process. Computer engineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering have higher academic requirements and limited spots. If you're interested in engineering, submit your application early and make sure your math and science coursework is strong.
Housing fills up quickly at Michigan State due to the large student body. Submit your housing application and deposit immediately after you're accepted, even if you haven't decided to enroll yet. The deposit is refundable until May 1, and waiting too long can leave you with less desirable residence hall options or off-campus housing searches.
MSU requires orientation before you can register for classes. Summer orientation sessions fill up fast, especially for popular programs. Register as soon as you're able to access the system after depositing. Late orientation means fewer class options for your first semester.
The campus spans over 5,000 acres, making it one of the largest university campuses in the country. Bring a bike or plan to use the extensive bus system to get between classes efficiently. Walking across campus can take 20-30 minutes, which matters when scheduling back-to-back classes.
If you're applying to the Honors College, submit that application by November 1 along with your university application. The Honors College has separate requirements including essays and recommendations, but offers smaller class sizes and priority registration.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $20,751/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $15,988
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $43,372
- Students Receiving Aid
- 20%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 82.2%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $67,253/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 91.4%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Michigan State University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?
Michigan State University has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.
What is the application deadline for Michigan State University?
Michigan State University has a rolling admissions process with priority deadlines of November 1 for fall admission and October 1 for spring admission. Applications are reviewed as they are received.
Does Michigan State University offer early decision or early action?
Michigan State University does not offer early decision or early action programs. The university uses rolling admissions, so applying earlier in the cycle can be advantageous.
How many credits can transfer students bring to Michigan State University?
Transfer students can bring up to 90 credit hours to Michigan State University. Students must complete at least 30 credit hours at MSU to earn a degree from the university.