Michigan State University

    East Lansing, MI · Public · Doctoral / R1 research university

    SAT middle 50% (admitted students)
    1180–1360
    Median ~1270
    Acceptance rate
    85%
    Enrollment
    40,922
    ACT middle 50%
    25–31

    Tuition and outcomes

    Tuition (in-state)
    $16,458
    Tuition (out-of-state)
    $43,842
    Median earnings 10 years after entry
    $67,253
    4-year completion rate (150% time)
    81%

    Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard, most recent available year. Tuition excludes room, board, fees, and books.

    How your SAT score lines up

    At Michigan State University, 25% of admitted students score below 1180 and 25% score above 1360. Scoring at the 75th percentile or higher makes the SAT a positive factor in your application.

    • 1400+ SAT: Strong — above the 75th percentile of admitted students.
    • 1360 SAT (75th percentile): Competitive — at or above the 75th percentile.
    • 1270 SAT (median): In range — near the median of admitted students.
    • 1180 SAT (25th percentile): Low end — within the 25th–50th percentile band.
    Compare to other colleges →

    FAQs

    What SAT score do I need for MSU|Spartans|MI State University|State|MI State U?

    Michigan State University's admitted students have a middle-50% SAT range of 1180–1360, with a median around 1270. To be competitive, aim for 1360+ — this puts you at or above the 75th percentile of admitted students.

    What is MSU|Spartans|MI State University|State|MI State U's acceptance rate?

    Michigan State University's most recently reported acceptance rate is approximately 85%.

    How much does it cost to attend MSU|Spartans|MI State University|State|MI State U?

    In-state tuition is approximately $16,458 and out-of-state is approximately $43,842. These figures exclude room, board, and fees.

    Is MSU|Spartans|MI State University|State|MI State U test-optional in 2026?

    Many US universities adjusted test policies after 2020. Check Michigan State University's admissions page for current test-optional, test-required, or test-flexible policy.

    Official site: www.msu.edu

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