CAMPUS · EAST LANSING, MI · PUBLIC

Michigan State University

83.9%

01Acceptance 02Tuition 03Transfer 04ROI 05AP Credit 06Majors 07Housing 08International

International Students at Michigan State University: By the Numbers

6.2%

International Undergrads

2,605

International Undergrad Count

2,358

International Graduate Students

9.1%

International (All Students)

Cost of Attending Michigan State University as an International Student

International students typically pay out-of-state tuition rates. Here's the full cost picture.

Room & Board	$11,754/yr
Estimated 4-Year Total	$47,016

Note for public universities: Michigan State University is a public institution. International students pay out-of-state tuition, which is significantly higher than in-state rates. Financial aid for international students at public universities is limited.

How to Apply to Michigan State University as an International Student

Meet English Proficiency Requirements

Most schools require TOEFL (typically 100+ iBT) or IELTS (7.0+). Some accept Duolingo English Test.

Submit Standardized Tests

SAT: 1250+, ACT: 28+

Prepare Financial Documentation

You'll need proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses.

Apply for F-1 Student Visa

After admission, Michigan State University will issue a Form I-20. Use this to apply for an F-1 visa at your nearest U.S. embassy. Start the process 3-4 months before your program begins.

Michigan State University Student Body Diversity

Diversity breakdown of Michigan State University's undergraduate student body.

White

66.6%

Black/African American

7.0%

Hispanic/Latino

6.0%

Asian

7.7%

International

6.2%

Career Outcomes for Michigan State University International Graduates

International students at Michigan State University can work in the U.S. after graduation through OPT (Optional Practical Training). STEM majors qualify for a 3-year OPT extension.

$67,253

Median Earnings (10yr)

$55,084

Median Salary (6yr)

$23,250

Median Debt

OPT & H-1B Path: After graduating from Michigan State University, international students get 12 months of OPT work authorization (36 months for STEM fields). Many use this time to secure H-1B visa sponsorship from employers.

Student Demographics

White

66.6%

Black/African American

7.0%

Hispanic/Latino

6.0%

Asian

7.7%

International

6.2%

Michigan State University International Student FAQs

How many international students attend Michigan State University?

6.2% of Michigan State University undergraduates are international students. That's about 2,605 international undergrads. Schools with higher international shares typically have stronger ESL support, international student offices, and on-campus resources for non-US applicants.

How much is international tuition at Michigan State University?

International students at Michigan State University typically pay the full out-of-state sticker price of about $32,198/yr (tuition + room and board + fees). Financial aid for international students is more limited than for US citizens, though some schools offer merit scholarships.

Is the Michigan State University acceptance rate harder for international students?

Michigan State University's overall acceptance rate is 83.9%. International applicants typically face in line with overall admission odds because of limited international quotas. Strong test scores (TOEFL 100+/IELTS 7.0+) and clear English proficiency help.

What English test does Michigan State University require for international applicants?

Most US colleges including Michigan State University accept TOEFL iBT (typical minimum 80-100), IELTS (6.5-7.0), and Duolingo English Test (115-130). Highly selective schools require scores at the upper end of those ranges. Some schools waive the test if you've studied 3+ years in English.

Does Michigan State University sponsor F-1 visas for international students?

Yes — Michigan State University is SEVP-certified and issues I-20 forms to admitted international students. Once you're admitted and pay your enrollment deposit, Michigan State University's international student office issues your I-20, which you use to apply for an F-1 student visa at the US embassy in your home country.