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