Michigan State University vs Colorado State University-Fort Collins

East Lansing, MI — Fort Collins, CO

Metric
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins, CO
Location East Lansing, MI Fort Collins, CO
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 40,922 25,538
Acceptance Rate 84.8% 88.5%
SAT Average 1,269
In-State Tuition $16,458 $13,373
Out-of-State Tuition $43,842 $34,783
Avg Net Price $19,680 $21,279
Median Debt at Graduation $23,250 $20,000
4-Year Graduation Rate 81.4% 66.7%
Retention Rate 90.0% 85.9%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $55,084 $49,748
Median Earnings (10 yr) $67,253 $60,543
Loan Repayment Rate 1161300.0% 769900.0%

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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Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins, CO
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Michigan State University and Colorado State University-Fort Collins 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. Colorado State University-Fort Collins (Fort Collins, CO) has an acceptance rate of 88.5%, in-state tuition of $13,373, and median 10-year earnings of $60,543.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Michigan State University or Colorado State University-Fort Collins?
Michigan State University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $67,253 vs $60,543. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Michigan State University or Colorado State University-Fort Collins?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Michigan State University is the more affordable option at $19,680 per year versus $21,279.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Michigan State University has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 81.4% vs 66.7%.

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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