Michigan State University: Is It Worth It?
East Lansing, Michigan · Public · Website
ROI Score
7.5
Net Price/Year
$19,680
avg with financial aid
10yr Earnings
$67,253
median, all graduates
Median Debt
$23,250
at graduation
Is Michigan State University Worth It?
Graduates earn a median of $67,253 per year ten years after enrollment. With an average net price of $19,680 per year, the total estimated cost for a four-year degree is approximately $78,720.
Based on median earnings, the degree typically pays for itself in approximately 1.2 years.
The median graduate leaves with $23,250 in debt, which represents about 35%of one year's earnings at the 10-year mark.
Note: These figures reflect all graduates regardless of major. Individual outcomes vary significantly by field of study, career choices, and personal circumstances.
Earnings vs. Debt
Net Price by Family Income
Admissions Snapshot
Acceptance Rate
84.8%
Avg SAT
1269
ACT Midpoint
26
Enrollment
40,922
Completion & Retention
6-Year Graduation Rate
81.4%
National avg: ~60%
Retention Rate
90.0%
First-year students returning
3yr Repayment Rate
1161300.0%
Grads making progress on loans
Cost Breakdown
In-State Tuition
$16,458
Out-of-State Tuition
$43,842
Avg Net Price
$19,680
After grants/scholarships
Similar Schools
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Michigan State University worth the money?
Based on federal data, Michigan State University graduates earn a median of $67,253 ten years after enrollment, with a median debt of $23,250 at graduation. The ROI score is 7.5.
What do Michigan State University graduates earn?
The median earnings for Michigan State University graduates is $55,084 six years after enrollment and $67,253 ten years after enrollment, according to the College Scorecard.
What is the acceptance rate at Michigan State University?
The acceptance rate at Michigan State University is 84.8%.
How much debt do Michigan State University graduates have?
The median debt at graduation for Michigan State University students is $23,250.
Data source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings data reflects median earnings 10 years after enrollment for all graduates. Debt figures reflect median debt at graduation for completers. Individual outcomes may vary.