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Central Michigan University and Ferris State University are both public institutions — Central Michigan University in Mount Pleasant, MI and Ferris State University in Big Rapids, MI. This page compares published admission, cost, and outcome data from federal sources so you can see the tradeoffs before you add either school to your list.
Mount Pleasant, MI · Public
Acceptance rate: 89.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 10,035
Tuition: $14,760/year
Student-faculty ratio: 16.0:1
Graduation rate: 58.7%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Education, Psychology
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Mount Pleasant, MI with published program strength in Business and marketing and Education.
Big Rapids, MI · Public
Acceptance rate: 91.4%
Undergrad enrollment: 8,106
Tuition: $14,778/year
Student-faculty ratio: 15.0:1
Graduation rate: 46.9%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Health professions, Security and law enforcement
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Big Rapids, MI with published program strength in Business and marketing and Health professions.
| Factor | Central Michigan University | Ferris State University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 89.8% | 91.4% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| 960–1200 |
| 890–1120 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 21–27 | 20–24 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 10,035 | 8,106 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $14,760/year | $14,778/year |
| Average net price after aid | $17,597 | $8,624 |
| Graduation rate | 58.7% | 46.9% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $55,874 | $54,735 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 16.0:1 | 15.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Mount Pleasant, MI | Big Rapids, MI |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Education, Psychology | Business and marketing, Health professions, Security and law enforcement |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (89.8% vs 91.4%). Ferris State University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($8,624 vs $17,597). Central Michigan University reports the higher graduation rate (58.7% vs 46.9%). Central Michigan University is the larger undergraduate campus (10,035 students). Use the free side-by-side comparison tool to weigh cost, program fit, location, and outcomes for your own list — and verify deadlines and requirements with each college.
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Common questions when choosing between Central Michigan University and Ferris State University
Central Michigan University has an acceptance rate of 89.8%; Ferris State University is around 91.4%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Central Michigan University tuition is $14,760/year. Ferris State University is $14,778/year. Compare net price after aid, not sticker price — especially for private schools and out-of-state publics.
Use College Decider's free comparison tool at /compare — add both schools to see tuition, acceptance rates, graduation outcomes, and more in one table.
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