Verified data from IPEDS & College Scorecard

Wayne State University vs Western Michigan University

Detroit, MI · Kalamazoo, MI · Source: IPEDS federal database

Wayne State UniversityWestern Michigan University
Acceptance Rate82.0%84.7%
In-State Tuition$14,297$15,298
Out-of-State Tuition$30,419$19,098
Average Net Price$16,021$20,183
Graduation Rate57.0%58.0%

GradFax Analysis

Wayne State University accepts 82.0% of applicants. Western Michigan University accepts 84.7%. Tuition is close: $14,297 at Wayne State University, $15,298 at Western Michigan University. Six-year graduation rates are close: 57% at Wayne State University, 58% at Western Michigan University.

Bottom Line

After aid, the average student pays $16,021/year at Wayne State University and $20,183/year at Western Michigan University. Wayne State University is cheaper for most people.

Source: IPEDS — Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Full interactive comparison →Wayne State University profileWestern Michigan University profile

Common Questions

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

Wayne State University. It accepts 82.0% of applicants, per IPEDS data.

Source: IPEDS

Is Wayne State University or Western Michigan University more affordable?

Wayne State University, on average. After aid, students pay $16,021/year versus $20,183/year. Your number depends on your aid package.

Source: IPEDS

Which has a better graduation rate?

Nearly the same. Wayne State University is at 57%; 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.

Wayne State University vs Western Michigan University: Acceptance Rate, Tuition & Outcomes (2026) | GradFax