Michigan State University vs University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

East Lansing, MI — Ann Arbor, MI

Metric
Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI
Location East Lansing, MI Ann Arbor, MI
Type Public Public
Total Enrollment 40,922 34,177
Acceptance Rate 84.8% 15.6%
SAT Average 1,269 1,465
In-State Tuition $16,458 $17,736
Out-of-State Tuition $43,842 $60,946
Avg Net Price $19,680 $13,138
Median Debt at Graduation $23,250 $19,500
4-Year Graduation Rate 81.4% 93.2%
Retention Rate 90.0% 97.5%
Median Earnings (6 yr) $55,084 $73,762
Median Earnings (10 yr) $67,253 $83,648
Loan Repayment Rate 1161300.0% 627800.0%

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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University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do Michigan State University and University of Michigan-Ann Arbor 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 Michigan-Ann Arbor (Ann Arbor, MI) has an acceptance rate of 15.6%, in-state tuition of $17,736, and median 10-year earnings of $83,648.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Michigan State University or University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $83,648 vs $67,253. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Michigan State University or University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is the more affordable option at $13,138 per year versus $19,680.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 93.2% 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