Academic Comparison between BSU and Central Michigan

Ball State University and Central Michigan University are frequently compared when students or parents prepare college admissions. Both Schools are four-year, public. BSU is located in Muncie, IN and Central Michigan is located in Mount Pleasant, MI.

Comparison at a Glance

The following list compares two colleges briefly in important perspectives. You can compare them with comprehensive information on full comparison page.

  • Both schools are four-year, public schools.
  • BSU has more expensive tuition & fees ($29,630) than Central Michigan ($15,480).
  • It is harder to admit to BSU than Central Michigan.
  • BSU has a higher submitted SAT score (1,160) than Central Michigan (1,080).
  • Central Michigan has higher submitted ACT score (23) than BSU (23).
  • BSU has more students with 21,089 students while Central Michigan has 14,488 students.
  • BSU has a lower number of students per faculty with 14 to 1 while Central Michigan's ratio is 16 to 1.
  • BSU has more full-time faculties with 968 faculties while Central Michigan has 659 full-time faculties.
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Comparison Table with important Academic Factors

Ball State Universityvs.Central Michigan University
Muncie, IndianaLocationMount Pleasant, Michigan
Four-year, PublicSchool Typefour-year, Public
Doctor's degreeHighest Degree OfferedDoctor's degree
Research University (high research activity)Carnegie ClassificationResearch University (high research activity)
In-State$11,082
Out-Of-State$29,630
2025 Tuition & Fees
In-State$15,480
Out-Of-State$15,480
67%% Receiving Financial Aid83%
$12,279Average Amount of Financial Aid$10,541
85.50 %Acceptance Rates89.82 %
20.44 %Yield (Enrollment Rates)11.26 %
1,160SAT Score1,080
23ACT Score24
62 %Graduation Rate59 %
-Transfer-out Rate-
78 %Retention Rate75 %
21,089Student Population14,488
968Number of Faculties659
14 to 1Students to Faculty Ratio16 to 1
Distance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher CertificationSpecial Learning OpportunitiesDistance Learning (Online Classes), ROTC, Study Abroad, Weekend/Evening College, Teacher Certification
Academic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement servicesOn Campus Student ServicesAcademic/career counseling service, Employment services, Placement services
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