Michigan State University vs California State University-Stanislaus

East Lansing, MI — Turlock, CA

Metric
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
California State University-Stanislaus
Turlock, CA
Location East Lansing, MI Turlock, CA
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 40,922 8,385
Acceptance Rate 84.8% 98.1%
SAT Average 1,269
In-State Tuition $16,458 $8,246
Out-of-State Tuition $43,842 $20,846
Avg Net Price $19,680 $6,067
Median Debt at Graduation $23,250 $13,540
4-Year Graduation Rate 81.4% 55.6%
Retention Rate 90.0% 82.5%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $55,084 $47,793
Median Earnings (10 yr) $67,253 $63,188
Loan Repayment Rate 1161300.0% 301300.0%

Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.

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Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
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California State University-Stanislaus
Turlock, CA
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Michigan State University and California State University-Stanislaus compare?
Michigan State University (East Lansing, MI) has an acceptance rate of 84.8%, in-state tuition of $16,458, and median 10-year earnings of $67,253. California State University-Stanislaus (Turlock, CA) has an acceptance rate of 98.1%, in-state tuition of $8,246, and median 10-year earnings of $63,188.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Michigan State University or California State University-Stanislaus?
Michigan State University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $67,253 vs $63,188. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Michigan State University or California State University-Stanislaus?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), California State University-Stanislaus is the more affordable option at $6,067 per year versus $19,680.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Michigan State University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 81.4% vs 55.6%.

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All data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. PlainCollege is not affiliated with any government agency.

Related

Source: U.S. Department of Education — College Scorecard College Scorecard institution outcomes (earnings, completion, debt) · 2025