Michigan State University SAT Scores, ACT Scores, Acceptance Rate, and Admissions Requirements
Michigan State’s 84.8% acceptance rate means admission is realistic for many strong students, but your goal should still be to match the academic profile of enrolled Spartans. Since 52% submit SAT scores, a 1310 puts you at the top of the middle range; a 30 ACT does the same if that test is stronger for you.
Data on this page is sourced from our college data partners and was last updated on July 9, 2026.
Michigan State University facts and stats
Michigan State University enrolls 41,234 undergraduates in a suburban campus setting. Michigan State has a freshman retention rate of 90%, well above the national average of roughly 70%, and its 6-year graduation rate is 81%. The student-to-faculty ratio is 16.9:1.
East Lansing, MI
How do your scores compare at Michigan State?
Unlock your future with Acely
Adaptive SAT and ACT practice that meets you where you are and gets you to your target score.
Key Michigan State University application dates
Key dates
Regular Decision
April 1
Early Action
November 1
Early Decision
Not offered
Priority Deadline
November 1
Financial Aid Priority
January 1
Test dates
August 22, 2026
Registration deadline: August 7, 2026
September 12, 2026
Registration deadline: August 28, 2026
October 3, 2026
Registration deadline: September 18, 2026
September 19, 2026
Registration deadline: August 14, 2026
October 17, 2026
Registration deadline: September 11, 2026
December 12, 2026
Registration deadline: November 6, 2026
If you choose to submit scores to test-optional Michigan State, take your first SAT or ACT by spring of junior year, then use the summer before senior year and fall of senior year for retakes to improve a superscore. For the November 1 Early Action deadline, plan for September as your last reliable retake so scores can arrive on time.
Want to improve your scores and unlock scholarships at Michigan State University?
Higher test scores can mean bigger merit awards. Acely helps you get there faster.
What you'll actually pay
Michigan State’s in-state tuition is $18,486, while out-of-state tuition is $44,838, a Big Ten public university price range. With an average merit award of $10,494 and 38% of students receiving aid, scholarships can help offset costs. Submit the FAFSA by the January 1 priority deadline.
Michigan State’s out-of-state tuition is $44,838, compared with $18,486 in-state, and room and board adds about $11,754. About 38% of students receive aid, with an average aid package of $17,699. Merit aid is also a factor, with an average merit award of $10,494 and named scholarships ranging up to $13,000. Graduates leave with an average debt of $31,912.
Student life at Michigan State University
41% of undergrads live on campus
Freshman housing: Guaranteed
Fraternities and sororities are active on campus. 12% of men join fraternities, and 13% of women join sororities.
Similar schools
Adrian College
Adrian, MIAcceptance rate: 72.6%
SAT: 940–1160
ACT: 21–27
Albion College
Albion, MIAcceptance rate: 80.7%
Alma College
Alma, MIAcceptance rate: 57%
SAT: 950–1170
ACT: 22–29
Alpena Community College
Alpena, MIAcceptance rate: 65.7%
Ready to fit Michigan State University's core benchmarks?
Start practicing today and track your progress toward a competitive score.