Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus vs Michigan State University
University Park, PA — East Lansing, MI
| Metric | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus University Park, PA | Michigan State University East Lansing, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Location | University Park, PA | East Lansing, MI |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Total Enrollment | 42,284 | 40,922 |
| Acceptance Rate | 60.6% | 84.8% |
| SAT Average | 1,337 | 1,269 |
| In-State Tuition | $20,644 | $16,458 |
| Out-of-State Tuition | $41,790 | $43,842 |
| Avg Net Price | $32,875 | $19,680 |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $25,000 | $23,250 |
| 4-Year Graduation Rate | 85.9% | 81.4% |
| Retention Rate | 92.6% | 90.0% |
| Median Earnings (6 yr) | $55,620 | $55,084 |
| Median Earnings (10 yr) | $63,435 | $67,253 |
| Loan Repayment Rate | 3192600.0% | 1161300.0% |
Values highlighted in green indicate the better metric. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
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Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
University Park, PA
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Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus and Michigan State University compare?▼
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus (University Park, PA) has an acceptance rate of 60.6%, in-state tuition of $20,644, and median 10-year earnings of $63,435. 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.
Which school has higher graduate earnings, Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus or Michigan State University?▼
Michigan State University graduates earn more at 10 years out, with a median of $67,253 vs $63,435. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Which school is more affordable, Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus or Michigan State University?▼
Based on average net price (after grants and scholarships), Michigan State University is the more affordable option at $19,680 per year versus $32,875.
Which school has a better 4-year graduation rate?▼
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus has the higher 4-year graduation rate: 85.9% 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