Michigan State University: Rankings, Fees, Courses & Admissions

Michigan State University (MSU) operates one main campus in East Lansing while supporting its mission through a network of centers and research sites across Michigan. This structure maintains close connections between teaching, research, and community partnerships throughout the state.

Here’s a quick overview of MSU’s campus:

East Lansing, Michigan (Main Campus)

• Academic Facilities: Spanning more than 5,200 acres, the main campus includes over 560 buildings. Major facilities, such as the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) and the Wharton Center, along with extensive research labs, serve a wide range of disciplines.
• Student Residences: MSU’s housing system is among the largest in the country for a single campus, offering traditional residence halls, apartments, and neighborhood-style communities.
• Athletic Facilities: Spartan Stadium seats over 75,000 fans, while the Breslin Center, Munn Ice Arena, and various recreation fields support varsity teams and student activities.
• Enrollment & Research: MSU enrolls around 52,000 students, supported by over 5,700 faculty and more than 7,000 staff. 

Detroit, Michigan (MSU Detroit Center)

• Academic Focus: This center, located in Midtown Detroit, hosts programs in teacher education, public health, music, and urban planning. It serves as MSU’s bridge to the city’s cultural and economic hub.
• Student Engagement: Students gain field experience through internships, teaching placements, and partnerships with local schools and community organizations.
• Community Connection: The center hosts cultural events, workshops, and works with Detroit nonprofits and neighborhood groups. 

Extension & Research Centers (Statewide)

• Academic Focus: MSU Extension runs more than a dozen centers statewide, sharing applied research in agriculture, youth development, health, and local economic growth.
• Student Engagement: Students connect through fieldwork, research, and outreach projects that benefit local communities.
• Community Connection: Extension offices bring university expertise to every county, supporting farmers, families, and businesses across Michigan.

Each campus plays a role in the university’s reputation, so here’s how MSU stands on national and global rankings.

Michigan State University stands among well-known global universities, coming in at #161 in the QS World University Rankings for 2026 and #133 in the U.S. News & World Report’s global list. These numbers reflect its steady reputation for research and teaching across various fields.

Here’s how MSU’s rankings line up over recent years:

Ranking Agency	2023	2024	2025	2026
QS World University Rankings	#159	#136	#152	#161
Times Higher Education (THE)	#106	#116	#122	NA
US News Rankings (Global)	#108	#116	#133	NA

Next, let’s see how MSU performs when you look closer at individual subject-wise rankings.

Top Course-wise Ranking

Michigan State University makes its mark with strong showings in key areas. Agriculture and Forestry leads the way at #11 globally (QS), while Communication and Media Studies secures an impressive #16. These rankings highlight MSU’s commitment to fields that shape everyday life and future growth.

Here’s a quick look at how MSU ranks across top subjects for 2025–2026:

Subject	Ranking Body	Ranking 2025
Agriculture	QS Ranking	11
Communication and Media Studies	QS Ranking	16
Animal Science	QS Ranking	16
Education and Training	QS Ranking	18
Business and Economics	THE Ranking	53
Life Sciences	THE Ranking	94
Psychology	THE Ranking	61
Social Sciences	THE Ranking	73
Environmental Science	US News Ranking	41
Physics	US News Ranking	86
Computer Science	US News Ranking	82

If these numbers resonate with you, it’s worth exploring what it takes to apply and secure your place.

If you’re setting your sights on Michigan State University, you’ll need to tick off a few clear requirements for academics, language scores, and visas. For example, undergraduate applicants whose first language isn’t English should plan for an IELTS score of at least 6.5. 

To help you get started, let’s look at what you’ll need to meet academically.

Academic Requirements

MSU looks at your entire academic record to see how well you’ve done in past courses and how you’ve challenged yourself. To give you some context, the GPA range for most first-year undergraduates is between 3.5 and 4.0. Graduate applicants typically require a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, depending on their field of study.

Now, let’s see exactly what supporting documents and details you’ll need to have ready.

Academic Qualifications

Michigan State University reviews your grades, course choices, statements, and letters of recommendation together to get a sense of who you are. For example, if you’re transferring credits from another college, you may need to submit up to 4 sets of transcripts, each with certified English translations if required.

Here’s what you should plan to include:

Requirement	Details
Academic Background	UG: High school diploma or equivalent. Most first-year students have a GPA in the range of 3.5 to 4.0.  PG: Bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.  PhD: Master’s degree with a GPA of around 3.5 in your field.
Transcripts	Official copies for all schools attended. Transfer applicants must submit complete records for each college or university.
Standardized Tests	SAT or ACT scores are optional for undergrads. Some graduate programs require GRE/GMAT results, so check with your department.
English Proficiency	TOEFL: 79 IELTS: 6.5 Duolingo English Test: 110.  Some programs may have higher minimums.
Personal Statement	Usually, 1–2 pages, explaining your goals, academic focus, and why MSU is the right place for you.
Recommendation Letters	Most graduate programs require two or three letters of recommendation. First-year undergraduate applicants typically don’t need them.
Identification	A valid passport is required for all international students.
Financial Proof	Bank statements or sponsor letters showing funds for at least one academic year, which is estimated at around $55,000 for undergraduates.

Once you’ve gathered your transcripts and records, you’ll want to confirm your language test results are up to scratch.

Language Proficiency

To succeed at MSU, you need to show you’re comfortable communicating in English, both inside and outside the classroom. For example, a TOEFL score of at least 79 is the standard minimum for most programs.

Here’s a look at the minimum English proficiency test scores you should aim for:

Test	Average Score
TOEFL iBT	79 (no section under 17)
IELTS band score	6.5
Duolingo English Test (DET)	110
PTE	53
MSUELT	Average of 80

Note: Many applicants submit scores well above the minimum to keep their application competitive.

Once you’ve handled language requirements, think about any standardized exams you might need.

Competitive Exams

MSU gives undergraduate applicants the option to submit SAT and ACT scores if they believe it will help strengthen their application. For example, the middle 50 percent of students who sent scores had SAT results between 1110 and 1310. Graduate students might need GRE or GMAT scores, depending on their program’s focus.

Here’s a simple overview

Criteria	Recommended Scores
SAT	Optional, middle 50%: 1110–1310
ACT	Optional, middle 50%: 24–30
GRE	Needed for some programs. Aim for 300+
GMAT	Needed for many MBA programs. Scores vary by college or department

With any required test scores in hand, the final step is to ensure you understand the visa process.

Visa Requirements

MSU’s international students make up around 10 percent of the total student body, so you’ll be in good company if you’re coming from overseas. 

For example, to secure an F-1 visa, you’ll need to show you have enough money to cover at least one year of study, which can total about $55,000 (INR 47L) for undergraduates.

Here’s what you should prepare for a student visa application:

Document	Details
I-20 form	Sent to you once you’re admitted and your financial proof is accepted.
Valid Passport	Must be valid for at least six months past your planned stay.
Financial Proof	Recent bank statements, affidavits, or sponsor letters that confirm available funds.
Admission Letter	Official acceptance letter from MSU.
SEVIS Fee Receipt	Proof you paid the I-901 SEVIS fee, which is currently $350 (INR 29.9K).
DS-160 Form	Online nonimmigrant visa application.
Visa Appointment	Confirmation page for your interview at your local U.S. embassy or consulate.

Once your visa documents are in order, make sure you don’t miss any key dates.

Application Dates and Deadlines

Managing application timelines can be challenging, especially when each program sets its own schedule. Missing a key cut-off date, such as February 16, 2026, for the MBA in the US, could set you back an entire year. 

The table below outlines Michigan State University’s key dates, allowing you to plan and submit with confidence.

Level	Application Details	Deadline
Undergraduate (UG)	Early Action (non-binding)	November 1, 2025
	Regular Decision (priority for decision)	February 1, 2026
	Regular Decision (final)	April 1, 2026
Postgraduate (PG)	Engineering (most departments)	December 31, 2025
	MBA (Full-Time)	February 16, 2026
	Art (MFA) (Fall 2026)	January 5, 2026
Doctoral (PhD)	CMSE PhD (Fall Term)	January 2, 2026
	CMSE PhD (Spring Term)	August 1, 2025

As you narrow down your course options, it’s helpful to understand what tuition might look like.

Michigan State University offers one of the widest selections around, with more than 400 options across bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral tracks. You can choose from established disciplines, such as engineering, or explore emerging fields like data science.

Here’s an overview of some key programs available at Michigan State University:

Program Type	Specializations
Graduate Programs	Master of Business Administration (MBA)  MS in Accounting  MS in Supply Chain Management  MS in Data Science  Master of Arts in Criminal Justice  Master of Science in Food Safety
Ph.D. Programs	Ph.D. in Computer Science  Ph.D. in Economics Ph.D. in Education Policy  Ph.D. in Environmental Geosciences  Ph.D. in Plant Breeding, Genetics, and Biotechnology  Ph.D. in Nursing Practice
Undergraduate Programs	BA or BS in Business Administration  BS in Computer Science  BS in Mechanical Engineering  BS  in Environmental Science  BA in Advertising Management  BS in Psychology
Certificates and Diplomas	Graduate Certificate in Data Science  Graduate Certificate in Cybercrime and Digital Investigation  Graduate Certificate in Environmental Policy
Online Programs	Master of Science in Criminal Justice (Online)  Master of Science in Food Safety (Online)  Master of Science in Supply Chain Management (Online)  Graduate Certificate in Strategic Management (Online)

When selecting a program, you should also consider the fees involved, especially if you’re applying as an international student.

Program Fees for International Students

Michigan State University’s postgraduate programs typically cost between $53,213 and $56,430 (about INR 45.4–48.2 lakh) per year for international students. 

By understanding these costs ahead of time, you can create a realistic budget and avoid financial surprises. It’s one of the proven reasons financial planning is the key to success; it keeps your spending under control and lets you concentrate on what matters most.

Here’s what you can expect to pay annually for different levels of study at Michigan State University:

Program Level	Annual Tuition Fee (USD)	Annual Tuition Fee (INR)
Undergraduate	$43,502	INR 37.1L
Postgraduate (Master’s)	$53,213 – $56,430	INR 45.4L – 48.2L
Doctoral (PhD)	$53,213 – $56,430	INR 45.4L – 48.2L

Note: The currency conversions are based on the current exchange rate.

When selecting a program, you should also consider the fees involved, especially if you’re applying as an international student.

Michigan State University (MSU) offers a wide range of scholarships designed to help you manage the cost of studying in the USA. Some awards can add up to more than $100,000 (INR 85.5L) over four years, giving you real financial relief.

Whether you’re aiming for a merit award worth a few thousand dollars or fully funded scholarships in the USA, MSU has funding opportunities that make your education more affordable.

Below is a clear look at what’s available internally and through external providers.

Internal Scholarships at Michigan State University

When you apply to MSU, you’re automatically considered for many internal scholarships, which can cover part or all of your tuition. 

Some awards, like the YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship, are worth $25,000 (INR 21.4L) per year, including room and board. You may also find additional options through the Honors College or your academic department. 

Here are some key scholarships for Indian students to study in the USA to be aware of:

Scholarship Name	Type	Details
Alumni Distinguished Scholarship	University-funded	Eligibility: Top 15 incoming students selected through MSU’s scholarship competition.  Benefits: Full tuition, room, board, and a $1,000 (INR 85.5K) stipend per year for up to eight semesters.
Joseph R. and Sarah L. Williams Scholarship	University-funded	Eligibility: Awarded to a select group of candidates with strong academic potential. Benefits: Full tuition, fees, food, housing for up to eight semesters, plus a one-time $7,500 (INR 6.4L) experiential education stipend.
Honors College Scholarships	University-funded	Eligibility: Students invited to the Honors College with strong academic records.  Benefits: Between $1,000 and $13,000 (INR 85.5K–11.1L) per year, renewable for up to eight semesters.
Professorial Assistantship	University-funded	Eligibility: Around 200 Honors College students are chosen each year for research roles.  Benefits: $3,500 (INR 3L) annual stipend to work with faculty on research.
YouAreWelcomeHere Scholarship	University-funded	Eligibility: International students who demonstrate a commitment to intercultural exchange. A separate application and essay are required.  Benefits: $25,000 (INR 21.4L) per year, renewable for eight semesters.
Non-Resident Scholarships	University-funded	Eligibility: Automatically considered for out-of-state and international students based on merit.  Benefits: $3,000 to $15,000 (INR 2.6L–12.8L) per year.
Red Cedar Scholarship	University-funded	Eligibility: Non-resident students who are children or grandchildren of MSU alumni.  Benefits: $1,250 (INR 1.1L) per year, up to eight semesters.
Presidential Study Abroad Scholarship	University-funded	Eligibility: Supports students interested in MSU-sponsored study abroad programs.  Benefits: $3,000–$5,000 (INR 2.6L–4.3L) to help with international program costs.

Keep in mind that some colleges within MSU also offer their own departmental scholarships once you declare your major.

External Scholarships for MSU Students

In addition to MSU’s internal scholarships, you can apply for external awards to help cover tuition, books, travel, and living expenses. For example, the  Fulbright Scholarship can cover more than $30,000 (INR 25.6L) each year for international graduate students. Here are some standard options:

Scholarship Name	Type	Details
American Association of University Women (AAUW)	Organization-funded	Eligibility: Women graduate students in any field.  Benefits: Funding varies; awards can reach up to $50,000 (INR 42.7L) for dissertation or postdoctoral work.
Big Ten Academic Alliance Smithsonian Institution Fellowship	Organization-funded	Eligibility: Graduate students at Big Ten schools conducting Smithsonian research.  Benefits: 1-year fellowship; stipend typically $37,700 (INR 32.2L).
Ford Foundation Fellowships	Organization-funded	Eligibility: Students committed to a career in college or university teaching.  Benefits: Varies by program; up to $27,000 (INR 23L) for predoctoral, higher for dissertation.
Fulbright Programs	Government-funded	Eligibility: U.S. or international students conducting research or study abroad.  Benefits: Full tuition, living, and travel. Often more than $30,000 (INR 25.6L) per year.
Howard Hughes International Student Research Fellowships	Organization-funded	Eligibility: International PhD students in years 2–3 of biomedical research.  Benefits: Up to $43,000 (INR 36.7L) per year for three years.
NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP)	Government-funded	Eligibility: U.S. citizens and permanent residents in STEM fields.  Benefits: $37,000 (INR 31.6L) annual stipend plus $16,000 (INR 13.7L) for tuition for up to 3 years.
The Graduate School GRFP Workshop Series	University-funded	Eligibility: MSU graduate students preparing GRFP applications.  Benefits: Free workshops, writing help, and faculty feedback to improve application success.
National Academy of Education Dissertation Fellowship Program	Organization-funded	Eligibility: Doctoral students writing education-related dissertations.  Benefits: $27,500 (INR 23.5L) for one year of dissertation research and writing.
National Academy of Education Postdoctoral Fellowship Program	Organization-funded	Eligibility: Early career researchers in education.  Benefits: Up to $70,000 (INR 59.8L) for one year to conduct research.
Pathways to Science	Organization-funded	Eligibility: Resource listing for STEM students at all stages.  Benefits: Database includes opportunities worth $5,000–$60,000+ (INR 4.3L–51.3L).
Soros Foundation Fellowship for New Americans	Organization-funded	Eligibility: Immigrants or children of immigrants in grad school.  Benefits: Up to $90,000 (INR 76.9L) total over two years of graduate study.
ACLS Fellowship and Grant Programs	Organization-funded	Eligibility: PhD candidates and postdocs in humanities and social sciences.  Benefits: $30,000–$70,000 (INR 25.6L–59.8L) depending on career stage and project scope.
Office of Science Graduate Student Research (SCGSR) Program	Government-funded	Eligibility: U.S. PhD students in science or engineering working with DOE labs. Benefits: Up to $3,000 (INR 2.6L) monthly stipend plus travel costs for 3–12 months.

While funding your studies matters, it’s just as important to know what career opportunities MSU can open up for you.

Michigan State University (MSU) reports that about 7 in 10 postgraduates secure full-time roles, while many others continue their studies. Strong employer connections help students access some of the best career options after graduation.

Here are some key statistics for MSU graduates:

• 60.4% of undergraduates are employed full-time, with a mean annual salary of $61,697 (INR 52.71L).
• 70.4% of postgraduates secure full-time employment, earning an average yearly salary of $75,514 (INR 64.47L).
• 25.8% of undergraduates and 14.9% of postgraduates choose to continue their education.

Here’s a visual snapshot of the job placement record of MSU for graduate students:

MSU’s career services keep students connected to employers who value Spartan talent. Let’s see which recruiters actively hire MSU grads.

Top Recruiters

Graduates from Michigan State find opportunities in a wide range of fields, with employers spanning government, tech, healthcare, finance, and more. Here are some of the biggest names that regularly hire MSU alumni for the highest-paying jobs:

• Education & Public Sector: Michigan State University, State of Michigan, Michigan State Police
• Consulting & Finance: Deloitte, EY, KPMG LLP, Plante Moran, PwC, Grant Thornton, Crowe Horwath
• Manufacturing & Engineering: General Motors, Ford Motor Company, Honeywell, Intel Corporation
• Technology & Retail: Amazon, PepsiCo
• Healthcare & Social Services: Corewell Health, Community Mental Health, Henry Ford Health System, Pine Rest

Once you know what to expect after graduation, it’s worth seeing what campus life is like while you study.

With over 50,000 students from 140+ countries, student life at MSU is all about community and connection. From 1,000 clubs to 23 varsity teams, there’s always something to join, cheer for, or help build.

Let’s take a closer look at what makes campus life so engaging for every student:

• On-Campus Housing: About 18,200 students live in 27 residence halls and three apartment communities. Most first- and second-year undergrads stay on campus for four semesters.
• Student Clubs and Organizations: Choose from 1,000+ clubs covering arts, academics, and culture. Around 14% of students join Greek life through 55+ fraternities and sororities.
• Athletics and Recreation: Spartans cheer on 23 varsity teams and the 300-member Spartan Marching Band. Intramurals, fitness classes, pools, and canoeing on the Red Cedar River keep everyone active.
• Campus Events and Traditions: Homecoming, riverbank tug-of-wars, and pop-up fairs keep campus busy. The Izzone packs nearly 5,000 basketball fans into the Breslin Center.
• Health and Wellbeing: Neighborhood centers offer advising, fitness, and health support near your hall. MSU looks after your mental health while studying abroad and provides disability and veteran services.
• Dining and Sustainability: Eat at State runs dining halls, cafes, and lockers for Amazon orders. Green housing, recycling drives, and energy-saving steps bring sustainability into daily life.
• Campus Connectivity: Five neighborhoods create tight-knit communities across 5,200 acres. Bike paths, bus routes, and walkable areas make it easy to get around.
• Community Engagement: Students log thousands of volunteer hours through the Center for Community Engaged Learning, with 1,400+ ways to give back near and far.
• International Student Support: The Office for International Students and Scholars supports over 5,500 students with visas, orientation, events, and peer connections.

To see where an MSU degree can take you, look at some of the university’s most well‑known alumni.

Michigan State University counts over 500,000 graduates whose work resonates in fields as varied as athletics, film, public administration service, and business leadership. 

The impact of Spartan alumni can be seen in championship trophies, iconic films, major urban revitalisation projects, and public policy that affects millions. 

Here are just a few who stand out:

Name	Field of Work	Contribution
Magic Johnson	Sports & Business	NBA Hall of Famer and five-time champion with the Los Angeles Lakers; later became an influential entrepreneur and advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness.
James Caan	Arts & Entertainment	Acclaimed actor best known for his role as Sonny Corleone in The Godfather, earning both Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations.
Sam Raimi	Film & Media	Director, producer, and screenwriter behind the Evil Dead series and the original Spider-Man trilogy, shaping modern superhero and horror genres.
Dan Gilbert	Business	Founder of Quicken Loans, owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers, and a driving force in the redevelopment of downtown Detroit.
Gretchen Whitmer	Public Service	Governor of Michigan, recognised for her leadership and dedication to public policy, holds both undergraduate and law degrees from MSU.

To help you choose, see how MSU stands alongside similar options in terms of ranking, fees, and opportunities.

When weighing up Michigan State, the University of Michigan, and Arizona State University, it’s worth taking a closer look at rankings, degrees offered, tuition ranges, and post-study work opportunities you can expect. 

Here's a comparative overview based on official university data:

Parameter	Michigan State University	University of Michigan	Arizona State University
QS World University Ranking 2026	161	45	173
Annual Tuition Fees (2025)	$43,502–$56,430 (INR 37.1L–48.2L)	$84,412 (INR 72.2L)	$30,348–$37,202 (INR 25.9L–INR 31.8L)
Programs Offered	UG: 200+ PG: 275+	UG: 280+ PG: 200+	UG: 400+ PG: 200+
Popular Courses	BA in Education BSc in Hospitality Business BEng in Supply Chain Management	BSc in Computer Science BEng in Engineering BA in Business	BSc in Information Technology BA in Psychology BA in Business Administration
Scholarships	Academic Scholars Red Cedar  Alumni Distinguished	Go Blue Guarantee  Regents Merit	New American University  President’s Scholarship Provost’s Scholarship
Post-Study Work Visa	Eligible for U.S. OPT (12 months) + STEM OPT extension (24 months)	Eligible for U.S. OPT (12 months) + STEM OPT extension (24 months)	Eligible for U.S. OPT (12 months) + STEM OPT extension (24 months)

Each of these universities offers distinctive academic strengths and student experiences. Where you choose to apply should reflect your academic interests, budget, and future goals. 

Studying at Michigan State University comes with a range of tuition fees, depending on your program and degree level. For international students, costs can run anywhere from about $35,400 (INR 30.3L) to over $61,000 (INR 52.2L) each year. Planning ahead helps you cover your expenses and make the most of your time at MSU.

Here’s a quick look at the estimated cost of studying in the USA for popular programs:

Program Level/Type	Tuition Fees (USD) per year	Tuition Fees (INR) per year
Undergraduate (UG)	$43,502	INR 37.1L
Human Medicine (MD)	$61,186	INR 52.2L
Veterinary Medicine (DVM)	$50,132	INR 42.8L
Executive MBA	$44,500	INR 38.0L
Master’s (Core/Professional)	$53,213	INR 45.4L
Master’s (College of Engineering)	$56,430	INR 48.2L
Doctoral (Core/Professional)	$53,213	INR 45.4L
Doctoral (College of Engineering)	$56,430	INR 48.2L
Graduate Certification	$35,438	INR 30.3L
Graduate Lifelong Education	$35,438	INR 30.3L

Notes: 

• INR values are calculated using the current exchange rate and may vary over time.
• Actual expenses can differ depending on your lifestyle, housing choices, and spending habits.

Apart from tuition and academic costs, your living expenses will play a key role. Here’s what you should know about everyday living costs.

Cost of Living

Planning your finances for Michigan State University requires careful consideration. The estimated annual cost of living in the US for international undergraduates stands at around $66,507 (INR 56.8L). 

This figure covers tuition, fees, living costs, and other essentials you’re likely to encounter throughout the year.

To help you map out your budget more realistically, here’s a clear breakdown of expected costs:

Category	Annual Amount (USD)	Annual Amount (INR)
Tuition	$43,502	INR 37.1L
Fees and Taxes	$1,908	INR 1.6L
Food and Housing	$13,079	INR 11.2L
Books and Supplies	$1,380	INR 1.2L
Personal/Miscellaneous	$3,838	INR 3.2L
Medical	$2,800	INR 2.4L

Notes:

• INR values are calculated using the current exchange rate and may vary over time.
• Actual expenses can differ depending on your lifestyle, housing choices, and spending habits.

If you’re wondering how to manage these expenses, a scholarship can make a real difference.