Michigan State University vs University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

East Lansing, MI — Champaign, IL

Metric
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL
Location East Lansing, MI Champaign, IL
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 40,922 36,258
Acceptance Rate 84.8% 42.4%
SAT Average 1,269 1,440
In-State Tuition $16,458 $16,004
Out-of-State Tuition $43,842 $35,124
Avg Net Price $19,680 $14,355
Median Debt at Graduation $23,250 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 81.4% 85.0%
Retention Rate 90.0% 94.8%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $55,084 $64,802
Median Earnings (10 yr) $67,253 $81,054
Loan Repayment Rate 1161300.0% 854700.0%

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

Full Profile
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
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University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Michigan State University and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 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. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) has an acceptance rate of 42.4%, in-state tuition of $16,004, and median 10-year earnings of $81,054.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Michigan State University or University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign?
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $81,054 vs $67,253. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Michigan State University or University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is the more affordable option at $14,355 per year versus $19,680.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 85.0% 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