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Michigan State University

7.6(15)
VerifiedPublicEstd. 1855
Founded
1855
Type
Public
University Guide

About Michigan State University

Explore overview, courses, fees, admissions, campus life, scholarships and student accommodation guidance in one premium Admistay guide.

Michigan State University is a public research university located in East Lansing, Michigan. It is a public land grant university that was founded as the agricultural college of Michigan. Later in the year 1964, they were given the status of Michigan State University USA. It is regarded as one of the highly valued research universities worldwide. Michigan State University Campus is home to over 50,000 students, out of which around 11% are international students. The university is ranked #152 as per QS World University Rankings and #122 as per THE World Rankings in 2025.

MSU is home to the national superconducting cyclotron laboratory and is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities. One of the most recent editions includes the 730 million dollar facility for rare isotope beams, a new facility for nuclear science research that is funded in partnership with the US Department of Energy and the state of Michigan. Around 200 programs are available at MSU, among which the top programs are:

  • Marketing
  • Communication
  • Journalism
  • Social sciences
  • Biological sciences
  • Education
  • Agriculture sciences
  • Nuclear sciences
  • Supply chain management

Some globally top-ranked subjects include Nuclear engineering and veterinary medicine. You can opt for research programs funded by the US government, mostly in the fields of agriculture and science. The Michigan State University USA also has online programs. The university has more than 900 clubs and organizations including dance, sports, theatre and many more. The campus has multiple food joints and also a dairy store. As an undergraduate fresher, you cannot have cars, but you can avail of the service provided by the university.

International students are recommended to have a GPA of 3.5 (90%) or higher on a 4.0 scale for admission. Students applying for the MBA program at MSU are generally expected to have a GMAT score between 600-720 or higher. The Cost of Living at MSU per year for international students starts from 61,041 USD (50.85 lakhs INR) for UG students and 65,754 to 70,314 USD (54.78 lakhs—58.58 lakhs INR) for PG students. Michigan State University offers nearly 67% of its students various MSU scholarships, granting up to 25,000 USD (20.82 lakhs INR) per year.

Table of Contents
  1. Michigan State University Courses

    1.1 Popular Courses at the Michigan State University

  2. Michigan State University Campus
  3. Michigan State University Admissions

    3.1 Michigan State University UG Admissions

    3.2 Michigan State University PG Admissions

  4. Michigan State University Admission Deadline

    4.1 Michigan Graduate Application Deadlines

  5. Michigan State University Cost of Living
  6. Michigan State University Accommodation
  7. Michigan State University Scholarships
  8. Michigan State University Placements
  9. FAQs

Michigan State University Courses

Michigan State University Michigan programs include over 200 undergraduate, graduate, and professional courses. It is the first academic institution to teach scientific agriculture in USA. There are more than 275 education abroad programs offered in 60+ countries across all continents. 33 of the graduate programs at Michigan State University rank among the top 25 nationally by the U.S. News. The university provides Diverse stem subjects for international students. The AgBioResearch finances the research of more than 325 scientists researching on-campus and at 14 off-campus locations.

Popular Courses at the Michigan State University

Listed below are some popular courses at the Michigan State University for international students:

Course Name Duration Tuition Fees (USD) Tuition Fees (INR)
Master of Science (M.S) in Computer Science 2 years $27,551 ₹2,259,182
Master of Science (M.S) in Business Data Science and Analytics 1 Year $39,000 ₹3,198,000
Master of Science (M.S) in Marketing Research and Analytics 1 Year $37,500 ₹3,075,000
Master of Accounting (M.Acc) 2 years $59,385 ₹4,868,570
Master of Science (M.S) in Construction Management 18 months $37,500 ₹3,075,000
Master of Business Administration (M.B.A) 21 months $77,872 ₹6,387,504
Master of Science (M.S) in Electrical Engineering 2 years $29,850 ₹2,447,700
Bachelor of Science (B.S) in Computer Science 4 years $43,502 ₹3,567,164
Master of Science (M.S) in Chemical Engineering 2 years $28,131 ₹2,306,742
Master of Science (M.S) in Supply Chain Management 2 years $28,675 ₹24,55,440
Master of Science (M.S) in Materials Science and Engineering 2 years $27,897 ₹24,55,440

Michigan State University Campus

The Michigan State University students, also called Spartans can experience Historic buildings and modern architecture blended with park-like green gardens. The MSU campus spans over 5,200 acres, providing a picturesque and spacious environment for students to study, live, and engage in various activities. There are 27 residence halls and more than 30 dining options.

  • Michigan State University Michigan is home to a diverse and inclusive international student community, with students from over 130 countries.
  • Designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, the Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum is a striking architectural masterpiece located on the MSU campus.
  • Wharton Center is a premier performing arts venue on campus, featuring multiple theatres and hosting a wide range of productions, including Broadway shows, concerts, and ballet performances
  • Beaumont Tower: One of the iconic landmarks of MSU, Beaumont Tower stands tall at the heart of campus. This historic tower houses the 49-bell carillon, which plays beautiful melodies throughout the day.

Michigan State University Admissions

As an Indian student, you should proceed with an early application. This will help you to keep your number slightly higher than the average. You must start preparing at least a year before the application deadline. Students applying for Michigan State University admission 2024, can check out the below-mentioned requirements for international students.

Michigan State University UG Admissions

The university allows you to change your major multiple times. So, if you feel that the course is not perfect for you, you can request a change in major. The teachers and the university help arrange and schedule the lectures accordingly.

Category Requirement
Application Portal Common Application or MSU Registration Portal
Application Fee 75 USD (6,248 INR)
GPA Requirement Minimum GPA- 3.5 i.e. 90%
English proficiency test scores TOEFL iBT—79 | IELTS - 6.5 | PTE—53
Standardized Exam Scores SAT score: 1210 (Avg) | ACT score: 27 (Avg)
Additional Requirement Personal Essay | Photographs | Letter of Recommendation | Portfolio

Michigan State University PG Admissions

MSU provides you the freedom to study anything that you like and opt for any extracurricular activities. The employers of MSU are more interested in students as a person than their degree. You can check the Michigan State University MBA and graduate admission details here.

Category Requirement
Application Portal MSU Registration Portal
Application Fee 75 USD (6,248 INR)
GPA Requirement Minimum GPA- 3.0/4 ~85% | Recommended- 3.5/4 or above
English proficiency test scores TOEFL iBT - 80 | IELTS - 6.5 | PTE - 48
Standardized Exam Scores GMAT - 600-720 | GRE - 150 [Verbal] | 160 [Quantitative]
Additional Requirement Resume/CV | Essays or Statement Of Purpose | 2-3 Letters of Recommendation

Michigan State University Admission Deadline

International students must apply for undergraduate admissions at MSU by the following deadlines:

Application Type Application Deadline
Early Action November 1, 2024 (Closed)
Regular Admission February 1, 2025 (Closed)
April 1, 2025

Michigan Graduate Application Deadlines

Tabulated below are the top graduate programs with their upcoming deadlines or international students:

Programs Deadlines
Master of Accounting Spring [Oct 1, 2025] | Fall/Summer [Jan 15, 2026] | Fall Round 2 [Mar 1, 2026]
M.S Business Data Science and Analytics Round [May 1, 2025] | Round 2 [Jul 1, 2025] | Round 3 [Aug 15, 2025]
M.S Chemical Engineering Mid-December
M.S Computer Science Spring [Sept 15, 2025]
M.S Electrical Engineering Spring [Sept 15, 2025]
M.S Marketing Research and Analytics May 1, 2025
M.S Supply Chain Management August 1, 2025

Michigan State University Cost of Living

The cost of living for international students is different as compared to domestic or local students. For an Indian student, the cost will be somewhere between USD 15,000 - USD 20,000 depending on your lifestyle. As per US News, Michigan State University’s 43% of the students live in college-owned, -operated, or -affiliated housing and 57% of students live off campus. The off-campus living can cost you between USD 720 - USD 1,130/monthly. This is cheaper than on-campus living since you do not get facilities outside which are provided by on-campus living. The on-campus housing costs are higher since you will get:

  • Computer room access and printing (as long as the front desk is open)
  • Wireless internet access in each room
  • 24-hour security camera
  • Access to the fitness room located in Petro Hall
  • Engaging community relationships
  • Free membership in the Residence Hall Association.

MSU_Cost_of_Living


Michigan State University Accommodation

The Michigan State University accommodation is offered to its students with world-class amenities. Students are free to live on-campus or off-campus. There are officials to assist the students in getting the accommodation of their choice. Living in an on-campus residence will help the students with access to classrooms, faculty, labs, libraries, and support services. One of the unique traditions that you will experience at Michigan State is the “Spartan Bucket List,”. It consists of 50 weird and unique activities that you should do as an MSU student. This includes Clicking a photo with Sparky, the MSU mascot

  • Trying every ice cream flavor at The Dairy Store on the campus
  • Painting the rock
  • Spending a night studying the MSU library and other activities that will shape your entire MSU experience.

Living on campus can be the best experience for new students. However, most students move outside the campus in their 2nd or 3rd year of study. Living off campus can be cheaper since there is no fixed expense and you can spend as per your lifestyle. You can also share an apartment with 2-3 more Indian students.

Residences Type of Room Cost per Year (USD)
Residence Hall Standard Room (Single/Double/Triple) 6,108
Double Room (3 persons) 7,220
Quadruple Room (4 persons) 3,610
Owen Graduate Hall Permanent Single Room 6,768
Owen Designated Single Room 8,298
Williams Single Room 8,830
Double Room 5,526

Michigan State University Scholarships

Michigan State University offers various awards and scholarships for international students in USA. At least 67% of full-time undergraduate students get financial assistance from the institute. The average need-based scholarship awarded here is 10,508 USD. If you are unable to get university scholarships, you can also apply for various government-funded and external scholarships. Some MSU scholarships are as follows.

Scholarships Eligibility Grants (USD)
#YouAreWelcomeHere scholarship Undergraduate students committed to bridging intercultural divides 25,000 USD for tuition up to 8 semesters
International Tuition Grant Students applying before Dec 1 with excellent academic records 7,000-15,000 USD for tuition up to 8 semesters
Global Ambassador Grant Meritorious students, who don’t get selected for Tuition Grant 7,000 USD annually for 8 semesters
Honors College Excellence Scholarship Students invited to the honors college 13,000 USD annually for 8 semesters

Michigan State University Placements

As an international student, you must understand that you can get jobs at any location in or outside USA. Of the 523 graduates reporting destination locations, 59% (306) were employed in Michigan, and 76% (395) reported employment in the Midwest. The average starting salary of students graduating in 2023 was USD 76,806 and the median starting salary was USD 75,000. Not only this, the university employs the largest number of students on campus. Some areas that hire most frequently are

  • Culinary Services (Eat at State)
  • Residence Education and Housing Services (Live On)
  • Auxiliary Sports Group.

The student jobs that you can do while studying include:

Job Name Details Payments
REHS Facilities Administrative Assistant Organized, detail-oriented, and dependable individual to support the Associate Director of Residence Hall Services with various projects and initiatives as a REHS Facilities Administrative Assistant USD 15 hourly
Events Bartender Bartenders will be needed for lunches, dinners, weddings, and other social events taking place at the hotel or other off-site venues we are catering events. USD 16 hourly
Front Desk Rotation Focused, hardworking, a team player, and dependable for Front Desk USD 12 hourly
Student Food Service Assistant Under the supervision of the on-duty Student Supervisors, and/or full-time staff and Operations Managers, a Student Food Service Assistant will support Culinary Services USD 13 hourly
Events Set-Up/Server Helps serve the hotel and MSU Athletic Venues, including Breslin Center, Stadium Tower, Munn Ice Arena USD 13 hourly

With students from nearly 140 countries, Michigan State University is a coveted institution. The students at Michigan State University are offered financial aid through grants and scholarships. You can also work while studying at the university. The university exhibits a decent graduation rate and employment rate indicating a bright career for the meritorious students.

FAQs

Ques: What is the admission process like and how is the campus life?

Ans: For admission, you need to submit a Statement of Purpose, three Letters of Recommendation, and your CV. After that, there is usually one interview round with three to four professors. The main aim of the interview is to check how well you can speak and understand English. It also helps if you already know the professor you want to work with and the field you are interested in.

Once you get in, the overall experience is really good. There are many helpful resources available for students. People on campus are friendly and supportive. The campus is also very safe and gives a feeling of being at home.

Ques: Why do students choose Michigan State University and what has their experience been like?

Ans: Michigan State University is often chosen by students who are looking for spring intake options and shorter program durations, such as one-year master's courses. Compared to many other states, Michigan has a relatively smaller Indian student population, which allows for greater international exposure and interaction with students from various countries.

The university is known for its diverse campus environment, which many students find helpful for personal and professional growth. While the academic and cultural experience is positive, students should be prepared for extremely cold winters that can last several months. There have also been concerns raised about campus safety due to isolated incidents in the past.

Ques. What is the minimum GMAT score required for MSU business programs?

Ans. There is no minimum requirement for GMAT scores at Michigan State University. However, MSU class profile shows a higher selection ratio for the students with a GMAT score of 665 and higher.

Ques. What is Michigan State University famous for?

Ans. Michigan State University is the first land-grant institution of USA. MSU is also known for its environmental journalism organization and its organic farm - run by students. Top programs of MSU include Education and Business courses.

Ques. Is it hard to get admission in Michigan State University?

Ans. Michigan State University exhibits an acceptance rate of 83.9%. It can be said that the university is slightly selective regarding its admission. Students with good academic marks have a good chance of getting selected.

Ques. Is Michigan State University a good institution for international students?

Ans. Michigan State University ranked #116 among the world universities by Times Higher Education 2024. MSU has an excellent education system and outstanding placement records. Other than that, the university houses more than 9,000 international students representing more than 130 countries worldwide.

Courses & Fees

Compare courses in a cleaner, easier way

Explore tuition, duration, language, eligibility, and exam requirements without the clutter.

Courses

176

Fee from

₹13,10,351.85

Exams

IELTS · TOEFL

Showing 5 of 97 bachelors

Overview
Degree TypeBachelor
Duration4 years
Study ModeFull Time
LanguageEnglish
Fees
Tuition FeeINR 41.5 L/Yr
Native FeeUSD 44,300 /Yr
Estimated Total₹2205361
Fee trendTuition progression
Official Program Page
Admission Guide

Admission Process

Michigan State University admissions are conducted in the Fall, Spring and Summer semesters. Majority of graduate programs accept applications for Spring or Fall semesters. The final deadline for undergraduate admissions is marked on April 1, 2025. Graduate programs at Michigan State University generally have varying deadlines for all courses.

The acceptance rate of Michigan State University is 85% according to the data published by U.S. News. This shows Michigan State University admissions are slightly competitive for all students. Applicants who secure admissions at MSU typically have a high school GPA between 3.5-4.0 (90-100%). On the other hand, the graduate applicants require a GPA of 3.0-3.5 (85-90%) for top courses.

Also Read: A Comprehensive Guide to Study in USA


Michigan State University Graduate Admissions

Michigan State University offers graduate admissions in 174 master's degrees and 131 doctoral degrees through 17 colleges. The application requirements for graduate programs are as follows:

Application: MSU Application
Application Fee: $100 (₹8,737)

Application Requirements:

  • 4 year bachelor’s degree with 3.0 GPA (85%) or higher
  • Standardized test scores:
    • GMAT- 550-625
    • GRE- 315
  • English language scores:
  • Interview

Documents Required:

  • Essays in 350-750 words
  • Personal statement
  • 1-3 letters of recommendation
  • Resume
    • Full-time experience
    • Extracurricular record
    • Academic Credentials
    • Community service
    • Leadership experience
    • Personal achievements
    • Global experience or education abroad
    • Mentoring or youth development
  • Financial proof

Michigan State University Requirements for Top Programs

Check out the top graduate programs in Michigan State University which specific admission requirements and annual tuition fee:

Programs GPA Required Test Scores English Language Scores Annual Tuition Fee (USD)
Master of Accounting 3.0 GPA (85%) GMAT score of 550 or equivalent GRE score TOEFL IBT: 100 | IELTS: 7.0 $59,385
Master of Business Administration 3.4 GPA (89%) GMAT: 615 | GRE: 315 TOEFL IBT: 100 | IELTS: 7.0 $56,738
M.S Business Data Science and Analytics 3.0 GPA (85%) or 3.25 GPA (87%) for GMAT/GRE waiver Optional TOEFL IBT: 100 | IELTS: 7.0 $39,000
M.S Chemical Engineering 3.0 GPA (85%) Not Required TOEFL IBT: 80 | IELTS: 6.5 $55,102
M.S Computer Science Bachelor’s degree in computer science GRE score of 153 [Verbal], 164 [Quantitative] and 3.0 [Analytical Writing] TOEFL IBT: 80 | IELTS: 6.5 $55,102
M.S Construction Management 3.0 GPA (85%) Not Required TOEFL IBT: 80 | IELTS: 6.5 $69,713
M.S Electrical Engineering 3.2 GPA (87%) GRE score of 146 [Verbal], 159 [Quantitative] and 3.0 [Analytical Writing] TOEFL IBT: 80 | IELTS: 6.5 $55,102
M.S Marketing Research and Analytics 3.0 GPA (85%) or 3.5 (90%) for GMAT/GRE waiver GMAT: 610 | GRE: 310 TOEFL IBT: 80 | IELTS: 6.5 $37,500
M.S Material Science and Engineering 3.0 GPA (85%) Not Required TOEFL IBT: 80 | IELTS: 6.5 $55,102
M.S Supply Chain Management 3.0 GPA (85%) Not Required TOEFL IBT: 80 | IELTS: 6.5 $57,350

Michigan State University Undergraduate Admissions

You can choose from 165 bachelor's degrees in more than 100 minors along with 65 certificate courses at undergraduate level. International students can apply for UG application using one of the three application as mentioned below:

Application: MSU Online Application | CommonApp | Coalition Application
Application Fee: $75 (₹6,553)

Application Requirements:

  • High school with 3.5 (90%) or above GPA
  • Standardized test scores:
    • SAT- 1100-1310
    • ACT- 24-30
  • English language scores:
    • TOEFL IBT- 79
    • IELTS- 6.5
    • PTE- 53

Documents Required:

  • Official transcripts
  • Essay
  • Financial proof

Michigan State University Admission Deadline

International students must apply for undergraduate admissions at MSU by the following deadlines:

Application Type Application Deadline
Early Action November 1, 2024 (Closed)
Regular Admission February 1, 2025 (Closed)
April 1, 2025

Michigan Graduate Application Deadlines

Tabulated below are the top graduate programs with their upcoming deadlines or international students:

Programs Deadlines
Master of Accounting Spring [Oct 1, 2025] | Fall/Summer [Jan 15, 2026] | Fall Round 2 [Mar 1, 2026]
M.S Business Data Science and Analytics Round [May 1, 2025] | Round 2 [Jul 1, 2025] | Round 3 [Aug 15, 2025]
M.S Chemical Engineering Mid-December
M.S Computer Science Spring [Sept 15, 2025]
M.S Electrical Engineering Spring [Sept 15, 2025]
M.S Marketing Research and Analytics May 1, 2025
M.S Supply Chain Management August 1, 2025

Michigan State University Application Process

You can apply for Michigan State University admissions by following the below-mentioned steps:

  • select your desired course
  • Review application requirements and deadlines
  • Apply using the official MSU portal or common app/coalition app (for UG only)
  • Pay your application fee
  • Submit your official transcripts
  • Select your major
  • Upload English test scores
  • Meet the visa requirements
  • Submit written samples
  • Finalize your application and submit
  • Keep track of application status via email or by logging into your application

Michigan State University Admission Decision

International students can expect their decision by the following dates after submitting all the required materials for admissions:

Program Type Application Type Decision Dates
Undergraduate Early Action January 15, 2025
Regular Admission March 31, 2025
Rolling
MBA Round 1 November 11, 2024
Round 2 January 31, 2025
Round 3 March 28, 2025


Michigan State University Steps for Admitted International Students

Applicants receiving an admission offer from MSU must confirm their acceptance by May 1, 2025. You must pay the acceptance fee of $250 (₹21,840) by logging into the official application portal. Upon paying the acceptance fee, you will automatically register for the orientation program.

  • Activate your MSU NetID by using the student ID number and personal access number
  • Obtain I-20 or DS-2019 to apply for US student visa
    • Submit passport
    • Financial statement including signed affidavit
    • Pay the SEVIS fee
  • Apply for housing by May 9 and pay the housing application fee of $50 (₹4,368)
  • Pay the advance housing payment of $175 (₹15,288)
  • Submit your final test scores if not submitted
  • Send official transcripts by mid-July

Indian students are strictly advised to thoroughly review all the application requirements and deadlines before applying for admissions. If you are applying for graduate programs, it is suggested to check the course specific requirements and deadlines before applying.

FAQS

Ques. How can I increase my chances of being accepted into Michigan State University?

Ans. To increase your chances of admissions at Michigan State University, you can follow these simple steps:

  • Score a GPA of 3.5 or better in previous qualification
  • Provide evidence of work experience and extracurricular Record
  • Submit complete test scores
  • Submit essay or personal statement in 350-750 words
  • Demonstrate your leadership skills and personal achievements

Ques. Does the SAT really matter for admission into Michigan State?

Ans. SAT scire are not the mandatory requirement for admission to MSU. However, submitting these scores can increase chances of admissions in undergraduate programs. A minimum score between 1100-1310 is recommended.

Ques. Can I get into MSU with a 2.7 GPA?

Ans. Yes you can be admitted to MSU with 2.7 GPA (81%) if you meet following criteria:

  • Demonstrate strong academic background
  • Have completed 24 transferable credits in college
  • Provide high school transcript if you have transferable less than 24 credits
  • Competitive SAT or ACT scores
Placements & Recruiters

Michigan State University Placement Details

Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan, United States placement details include salary insights, top recruiters, and hiring trends to help students understand career outcomes and campus opportunities.

Students usually compare highest package, average package, and recruiter profile before applying. This section gives a compact overview of career outcomes and placement visibility in East Lansing, Michigan, United States.

Recruiters
N/A
Salary Metrics
0/2
Placement Metric

Highest Package

N/A

Represents the top salary package reported in the available placement information.

Placement Metric

Average Package

N/A

Shows the typical package range students may expect based on the available average salary data.

Placement information is currently limited.

More salary or recruiter data may be updated later for this college.

Rankings over the years

Year-wise highlights from global and country rankings available for this university.

2022

Highlights
2022
  • Best overall country rank: #32
  • Sciences: #4 in country
  • Top source: ARWU
  • 61 ranked streams
  • Focus areas: Overall, Management
  • 7 ranking records in 2022

2023

Highlights
2023
  • Best overall country rank: #36
  • Sports Sciences: #12 in country
  • Top source: THE
  • 51 ranked streams
  • Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
  • 4 ranking records in 2023

2024

Highlights
2024
  • Best overall country rank: #30
  • Education: #6 in country
  • Top source: THE
  • 57 ranked streams
  • Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
  • 5 ranking records in 2024

2025

Highlights
2025
  • Best overall country rank: #31
  • Agriculture: #5 in country
  • Top source: QS
  • 48 ranked streams
  • Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
  • 4 ranking records in 2025

2026

Highlights
2026
  • Best overall country rank: #33
  • Social Studies: #19 in country
  • Top source: Collegedunia
  • 7 ranked streams
  • Focus areas: Overall, Engineering
  • 3 ranking records in 2026

Contact Information

426 Auditorium Road East Lansing, MI 48824

+1-517-355-1855

Student Reviews & Ratings

Overall sentiment and category-wise rating summary

Overall score

7.6/10
Top Rated

Based on 15 ratings

Rating Breakdown

Visual summary of rating distribution and categories

Live Summary
Academic
8.6/10
Faculty
8.3/10
Infrastructure
8.7/10
Accommodation
8.6/10
Placement
7.2/10
Extracurricular
8.6/10