Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Michigan State University vs Western Michigan University

East Lansing, MI · Kalamazoo, MI · Source: IPEDS federal database

Michigan State UniversityWestern Michigan University
Acceptance Rate84.8%84.6%
In-State Tuition$16,458$15,252
Out-of-State Tuition$43,842$19,034
Average Net Price$23,657$17,331
Graduation Rate81.0%58.0%
Total Enrollment52,08916,744
Student-Faculty Ratio1716

GradFax Analysis

Both are competitive to get into. Michigan State University accepts 84.8% of applicants; Western Michigan University accepts 84.6%. Tuition is close: $16,458 at Michigan State University, $15,252 at Western Michigan University. Michigan State University graduates 81% of students in 6 years. Western Michigan University graduates 58%.

Bottom Line

After aid, the average student pays $23,657/year at Michigan State University and $17,331/year at Western Michigan University. Western Michigan University is cheaper for most people.

Source: IPEDS: Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Michigan State University profileWestern Michigan University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Michigan State University or Western Michigan University?

Western Michigan University. It accepts 84.6% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Michigan State University or Western Michigan University more affordable?

Western Michigan University, on average. After aid, students pay $17,331/year versus $23,657/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Michigan State University: 81% of students finish in 6 years. Western Michigan University is at 58%.

Source: IPEDS

Data from IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System), a federal database maintained by the U.S. Department of Education. Figures represent the most recent available academic year.