Michigan State University and Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus are frequently compared when students or parents prepare college admissions. Both Schools are four-year, public. MSU is located in East Lansing, MI and Penn State is located in University Park, PA.
The following list compares two colleges briefly in important perspectives. You can compare them with comprehensive information on full comparison page.
| Michigan State University | vs. | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus |
|---|---|---|
| East Lansing, Michigan | Location | University Park, Pennsylvania |
| Four-year, Public | School Type | four-year, Public |
| Doctor's degree | Highest Degree Offered | Doctor's degree |
| Research University (very high research activity) | Carnegie Classification | Research University (very high research activity) |
In-State$18,079
Out-Of-State$44,850 | 2025 Tuition & Fees | In-State$20,644
Out-Of-State$41,790 |
| 80% | % Receiving Financial Aid | 50% |
| $9,834 | Average Amount of Financial Aid | $14,013 |
| 84.80 % | Acceptance Rates | 60.56 % |
| 18.32 % | Yield (Enrollment Rates) | 17.11 % |
| 1,260 | SAT Score | 1,330 |
| 28 | ACT Score | 30 |
| 81 % | Graduation Rate | 86 % |
| - | Transfer-out Rate | 2 % |
| 90 % | Retention Rate | 93 % |
| 52,089 | Student Population | 50,737 |
| 3,013 | Number of Faculties | 4,174 |
| 17 to 1 | Students to Faculty Ratio | 16 to 1 |
| Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College | Special Learning Opportunities | Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher Certification |
| Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services | On Campus Student Services | Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, On-campus daycare |