East Lansing, MI · Admissions

Michigan State University

Acceptance Rate & How to Get In

Michigan State University has a 80% acceptance rate, making it accessibleadmits a majority of applicants. Admitted students score around 1100–1310 on the SAT. Here is what the numbers say it takes to get in.

80%
Acceptance rate
1100–1310
SAT (mid 50%)
24–30
ACT (mid 50%)
Test-optional
Testing

How hard is it to get into Michigan State University?

With a 80% acceptance rate, Michigan State University is accessibleadmits a majority of applicants. It enrolls roughly 41,234 undergraduates (suburban setting) in East Lansing, MI. Solid grades, a sensible test plan, and thoughtful essays go a long way here.

What it takes to get in

  • SAT: admitted students land around 1100–1310 (middle 50%). Aim for the upper end to be competitive.
  • ACT: the middle 50% is about 24–30.
  • GPA: admitted students average around 3.74. Rigor (APs/IB/honors) matters as much as the number.
  • Testing policy: Test-optional. Confirm on the school's site, since policies shift each cycle.
  • Essays: at Michigan State University's selectivity, the application essays are often what separates similar applicants. Make them specific and authentically yours.

Cost

Published tuition is about $43,502 out-of-state ($16,118 in-state) per year before aid. Many students pay less after financial aid — check the school's net price calculator.

Notable programs

Engineering · Business · Agriculture · Education

See the Common App personal-statement guide

Score your Michigan State University essays, free

Great numbers get you in the room; the essays get you in. Paste your draft into Halo for instant, rubric-based feedback. Halo never writes your essay for you.

Try Halo free

Michigan State University admissions FAQ

What is Michigan State University's acceptance rate?
Michigan State University's acceptance rate is 80%, which makes it accessible — admits a majority of applicants.
What SAT or ACT score do you need for Michigan State University?
Admitted students typically score about 1100–1310 on the SAT (middle 50%) and about 24–30 on the ACT. Scores at or above this range strengthen your application, but they are one factor among many.
Is Michigan State University test-optional?
Michigan State University's current testing policy is: Test-optional. Always confirm on the school's admissions site, as policies change by cycle.

Sources & official links

Figures are the most recent available from Common Data Set, IPEDS, and public reports, and are approximate. Always confirm details on Michigan State University’s official admissions site.