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Western Michigan University and Michigan State University are both public institutions — Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, MI and Michigan State University in East Lansing, 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.
Kalamazoo, MI · Public
Acceptance rate: 84.6%
Undergrad enrollment: 12,568
Tuition: $19,034/year
Student-faculty ratio: 16.0:1
Graduation rate: 57.6%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Engineering, Health professions
Best for: Students who want a public campus in Kalamazoo, MI with published program strength in Business and marketing and Engineering.
East Lansing, MI · Public
Acceptance rate: 84.8%
Undergrad enrollment: 40,922
Tuition: $43,842/year
Student-faculty ratio: 17.0:1
Graduation rate: 80.7%
Top programs: Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Communication
Best for: Students who want a public campus in East Lansing, MI with published program strength in Business and marketing and Biological sciences.
| Factor | Western Michigan University | Michigan State University |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 84.6% | 84.8% |
| SAT range (middle 50%) |
| Not reported |
| 1180–1360 |
| ACT range (middle 50%) | 24 average | 25–31 |
| Undergraduate enrollment | 12,568 | 40,922 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $19,034/year | $43,842/year |
| Average net price after aid | $15,273 | $19,680 |
| Graduation rate | 57.6% | 80.7% |
| Median earnings (10 years) | $53,562 | $67,253 |
| Student-faculty ratio | 16.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Institution type | Public | Public |
| Location | Kalamazoo, MI | East Lansing, MI |
| Largest program areas | Business and marketing, Engineering, Health professions | Business and marketing, Biological sciences, Communication |
Both schools admit a similar share of applicants (84.6% vs 84.8%). Western Michigan University has a lower average net price after grant aid ($15,273 vs $19,680). Michigan State University reports the higher graduation rate (80.7% vs 57.6%). Michigan State University is the larger undergraduate campus (40,922 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 Western Michigan University and Michigan State University
Western Michigan University has an acceptance rate of 84.6%; Michigan State University is around 84.8%. Selectivity is only one factor — GPA, essays, major, and residency (for publics) all change the odds.
Western Michigan University tuition is $19,034/year. Michigan State University is $43,842/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.
Add both schools to our free side-by-side comparison tool — tuition, outcomes, and more.
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