Michigan State University vs University of Wisconsin-Madison
East Lansing, MI — Madison, WI
| Metric | Michigan State University East Lansing, MI | University of Wisconsin-Madison Madison, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Location | East Lansing, MI | Madison, WI |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 40,922 | 36,902 |
| Acceptance Rate | 84.8% | 45.2% |
| SAT Average | 1,269 | 1,427 |
| In-State Tuition | $16,458 | $11,603 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $43,842 | $42,103 |
| Avg Net Price | $19,680 | $17,354 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $23,250 | $20,484 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 81.4% | 89.4% |
| Retention Rate | 90.0% | 96.2% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $55,084 | $61,275 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $67,253 | $73,792 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 1161300.0% | 729100.0% |
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 Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, WI
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Michigan State University and University of Wisconsin-Madison 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 Wisconsin-Madison (Madison, WI) has an acceptance rate of 45.2%, in-state tuition of $11,603, and median 10-year earnings of $73,792.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Michigan State University or University of Wisconsin-Madison?▼
University of Wisconsin-Madison graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $73,792 vs $67,253. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Michigan State University or University of Wisconsin-Madison?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), University of Wisconsin-Madison is the more affordable option at $17,354 per year versus $19,680.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
University of Wisconsin-Madison has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 89.4% 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