Is Michigan State University worth it?

East Lansing, MI · public

Verdict

Typical students pay $19,680 a year after aid, graduate with $23,250 in federal debt, and earn $55,084 six years after enrolling — an estimated monthly loan payment of $249, with a debt break-even of about 4.2 years.

Net price / year

$19,680

Admission rate

85%

Graduation rate

Median debt

$23,250

Earnings (6 yr)

$55,084

Earnings (10 yr)

$67,253

Est. monthly loan payment

$249

Loan-to-income ratio

42%

Debt break-even

4.2 years

How Michigan State University compares

MetricMichigan State UniversityMichiganNational
Net price$19,680$15,182$16,642
Median debt$23,250$12,512$12,377
Earnings (6 yr)$55,084$30,226$33,037
Graduation rate

FAQ

How much does it cost to attend Michigan State University?

The federal average net price after grants and scholarships is $19,680 a year. That figure reflects what a typical student actually pays after grants and scholarships, not the sticker price.

How much debt do Michigan State University graduates typically carry?

Students who complete a program at Michigan State University leave with a median federal debt of $23,250, based on the U.S. Department of Education's College Scorecard.

What do Michigan State University graduates earn?

Six years after enrolling, former students report median earnings of $55,084, drawn from federal tax records aggregated by the College Scorecard.

What is the graduation rate at Michigan State University?

Graduation rate data is not currently published for this school.

Is Michigan State University worth the debt?

Based on median debt and 6-year earnings, it would take roughly 4.2 years of 10% income allocation to pay off the typical debt load — compare that against your own expected major and career path before deciding.

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.