Michigan State University vs Ohio State University-Main Campus

East Lansing, MI — Columbus, OH

Metric
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus, OH
Location East Lansing, MI Columbus, OH
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 40,922 45,638
Acceptance Rate 84.8% 60.6%
SAT Average 1,269 1,387
In-State Tuition $16,458 $13,244
Out-of-State Tuition $43,842 $40,022
Avg Net Price $19,680 $17,339
Median Debt at Graduation $23,250 $19,976
4-Year Graduation Rate 81.4% 87.7%
Retention Rate 90.0% 94.2%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $55,084 $51,438
Median Earnings (10 yr) $67,253 $60,409
Loan Repayment Rate 1161300.0% 1822700.0%

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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Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus, OH
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Michigan State University and Ohio State University-Main Campus 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. Ohio State University-Main Campus (Columbus, OH) has an acceptance rate of 60.6%, in-state tuition of $13,244, and median 10-year earnings of $60,409.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Michigan State University or Ohio State University-Main Campus?
Michigan State University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $67,253 vs $60,409. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Michigan State University or Ohio State University-Main Campus?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Ohio State University-Main Campus is the more affordable option at $17,339 per year versus $19,680.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
Ohio State University-Main Campus has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 87.7% vs 81.4%.

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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