Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Northern Michigan University vs Saginaw Valley State University

Marquette, MI · University Center, MI · Source: IPEDS federal database

Northern Michigan UniversitySaginaw Valley State University
Acceptance Rate70.0%72.9%
In-State Tuition$13,304$12,240
Out-of-State Tuition$18,800$28,752
Average Net Price$17,937$15,144
Graduation Rate51.0%54.0%

GradFax Analysis

Northern Michigan University accepts 70.0% of applicants. Saginaw Valley State University accepts 72.9%. Tuition is close: $13,304 at Northern Michigan University, $12,240 at Saginaw Valley State University. Northern Michigan University graduates 51% of students in 6 years. Saginaw Valley State University graduates 54%.

Bottom Line

Both are solid options. Get the actual aid estimates from each school and compare them side by side. The averages above won't tell your specific story.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Northern Michigan University profileSaginaw Valley State University profile

Common Questions

Which is harder to get into, Northern Michigan University or Saginaw Valley State University?

Northern Michigan University. It accepts 70.0% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Northern Michigan University or Saginaw Valley State University more affordable?

Saginaw Valley State University, on average. After aid, students pay $15,144/year versus $17,937/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Saginaw Valley State University: 54% of students finish in 6 years. Northern Michigan University is at 51%.

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.

Northern Michigan University vs Saginaw Valley State University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax