By Kelly Boyer Sagert

(Last Updated – 08/2025)

North Carolina State University, often referred to as NC State, is a public land-grant research university located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Founded in 1887, it has grown to become one of the largest universities in the state and a leader in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.

The university offers degrees ranging from associate to doctoral. Read on to learn about NC State admissions and acceptance rates, NC State tuition, popular majors, and more.

Total Cost of Attendance

In the United States, the average public four-year in-state cost of attendance was $28,840, while public four-year out-of-state cost of attendance was $46,730.

Financial Aid

In the 2022-23 academic year, 68% of first-time, full-time undergraduates received some type of aid. More specifically:

•  Grant or scholarship aid: 50% received these funds with the average amount being $11,811

•  Federal grants: 18% received these funds with the average amount being $5,678

•  Pell grants: 18% received these funds with the average amount being $5,443

•  Other federal grants: 43% received these funds with the average amount being $845

•  Student loan aid: 41% received these funds with the average amount being $7,609

•  Federal student loans: 40% received these funds with the average amount being $5,105

•  Other student loans: 7% received these funds with the average amount being $16,558

Recommended: North Carolina Student Loan & Scholarship Information

Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need or merit. Students that qualify for financial aid can use it to pay for college costs like tuition, books, and living expenses.

The federal government is the largest provider of student financial aid. However, aid can also be given by state governments, colleges and universities, private companies, and nonprofits. The different types include:

•  Scholarships: These can be awarded by schools and other organizations based on students’ academic excellence, athletic achievement, community involvement, job experience, field of study, or financial need.

•  Grants: Generally based on financial need, these can come from federal, state, private, or nonprofit organizations.

•  Work-study: This federal program provides qualifying students with part-time employment to earn money for expenses while in school.

•  Federal student loans: This is money borrowed directly from the U.S. Department of Education. It comes with fixed interest rates that are typically lower than private loans.

Colleges, universities, and state agencies use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial aid eligibility. The FAFSA can be completed online, but note that state and federal and school deadlines may differ.

You can find other financial aid opportunities on databases such as:

•  US Department of Education – Search for grants from colleges and universities by state

•  College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS) – A global college scholarship application used by select institutions to award financial aid

•  SoFi Scholarship Finder

Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

Private Student Loans

At NCSU, 7% of students in 2022-23 received private student loan funding and the university offers guidance on how to apply for them.

Private student loans are funded by private organizations such as banks, online lenders, credit unions, some schools, and state-based or -affiliated organizations. While federal student loans have interest rates that are regulated by Congress, private lenders follow a different set of regulations, so their qualifications and interest rates can vary widely.

What’s more, private loans have variable or fixed interest rates that may be higher than federal loan interest rates, which are always fixed. Private lenders may (but don’t always) require you to make payments on your loans while you are still in school. Federal student loans don’t have to be paid back until after you graduate, leave school, or change your enrollment status to less than half-time.

Private loans don’t have a specific application window and can be applied for on an as-needed basis. However, if you think you may need to take out a private loan, it’s a good idea to submit your FAFSA first to see what federal aid you may qualify for, because it generally has better rates and terms.

If you’ve missed the FAFSA deadline or you’re struggling to pay for school throughout the year, private loans can potentially help you make your tuition payments. Just keep in mind that you will need enough lead time for your loan to process and for your lender to send money to your school.

Recommended: Guide to Private Student Loans

Projected 4-Year-Degree Price

Using the 2024-25 NC rates, in-state total cost for four years would equal $108,948 without tuition increases. Out-of-state total cost would equal $205,140 over four years without tuition increases.

The national average cost of attendance for public in-state colleges for four years is $115,360.

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

For in-state students at a four-year public university, tuition and fees averaged $11,260, making North Carolina State lower than the national average. For out-of-state students, the cost averaged $29,150.

Graduate Tuition and Fees

Assuming a two-year program, a master’s degree from North Carolina State would cost $24,202 for in-state students and $65,748 for out-of-state students.

Students can obtain graduate loans to help with the costs.

Cost per Credit Hour

Students attending NCSU pay per credit, and the cost varies by program. The standard rate for in-state undergraduates starts at $272.29 for one credit hour and $1,312.50 for one credit hour for out-of-state students. Tuition and fees are capped at 12 hours.

Campus Housing Expenses

North Carolina State has 21 residence halls of different styles, including traditional hall-style buildings, suite-style buildings, university towers, and hotel-style buildings.

NCSU offers off-campus housing, too, though some students opt to find their own accommodations. Off-campus housing is variable depending on location and roommates, but typically starts at $735 per month.

North Carolina State University Acceptance Rate

Admission Requirements

Students can apply online, selecting up to two majors. SAT and ACT test scores are optional in 2024-25. Applicants should complete an essay and answer short questions, and send in their transcripts. During the NC State admissions process, the university will look for academic accomplishments, extracurricular achievements, background information, and individual stories.

Fall deadlines for NC State admissions are listed on the website as follows:

•  Early Action: November 1 of the year before admissions

•  Regular Decision: January 15 of the academic year

SAT and ACT Scores

NC State is test-optional in the 2024-25 academic year. Of the students who enrolled in Fall 2023 and submitted scores, 21% submitted SAT scores and 28% submitted ACT scores with the following 25th and 75th percentiles:

Popular Majors at North Carolina State

In 2023-24, 6,397 undergraduates received their degrees. Here are some of the most popular majors.

1. Business Administration

Students learn how to run businesses, discovering how components work together for success. Undergraduates learn both business strategy and operational functions.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 918

2. Biology

Undergraduates start with a foundational focus on biological cell structures, organisms, and more, before choosing courses that dovetail with more specific interests.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 436

3. Psychology

Psychology majors learn about theories and how they’re applied — and the associated real-life impacts. Undergraduates study human development, mental health challenges, stress-related issues, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 296

4.Computer Science

Students learn how to design, implement, and test computer systems with a focus on programming languages, software engineering, data structures, security issues, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 287

5. Mechanical Engineering

Students develop and design everything from autonomous vehicles to manufacturing methods, and from robots and satellites to innovative engineering tools and more in this program.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 250

6. Animal Sciences

Students pick from three concentrations: veterinary bioscience, science, and industry. The science program is created for those who plan further study in physiology, genetics, nutrition, and similar disciplines.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 205

7. Speech Communication

Undergraduates learn about, test, and improve interpersonal communication skills as preparation for a professional career in media, business, non-profit agencies, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 197

8. Textile Engineering

In this interdisciplinary program, students learn a variety of engineering and scientific principles. They work on projects that can range from designing personal protective equipment to artificial arteries.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 192

9. Political Science

This program appeals to students interested in public and nonprofit sector careers, and justice and the law. Undergraduates can choose to pursue a broad scope of education or a more niche program.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 177

10. Electrical Engineering

Undergraduates receive a strong education in mathematics and sciences along with a focus on electric circuit theory, electromagnetics, digital logic, computer systems, and much more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 136

Graduation Rate

Using data from students starting in Fall 2017, graduation rates are as follows:

•  4-year: 68%

•  6-year: 85%

Post-Graduation Median Earnings

Median earnings of a NC State graduate is $68,758 compared to the national median of $80,236. This makes NC graduate earnings less than the average.

By Susan Guillory

(Last Updated – 08/2025)

Founded in 1870, The Ohio State University (OSU) is a leading public research university located in Columbus. The school is known for its strong academic programs, especially in engineering, business, and health sciences, and consistently ranks among the top public universities in the U.S. OSU also boasts a vibrant campus life, top-ranked athletics program, and extensive research opportunities.

Total Cost of Attendance

The Ohio State University tuition in 2024-25 for state residents was $13,244. This is higher than the national average of $11,260 for in-state tuition at public universities. For residents of other states, Ohio State tuition was $40,022, which is above the national average for out-of-state tuition of $29,150.

Tuition, however, is only part of the total cost of attending college. Here’s a look at other expenses students can expect when attending Ohio State.

Financial Aid

The majority of students at Ohio State (75%) use financial aid to help cover the tuition and other costs. This may be student loans, scholarships, or grants, or a combination of these.

Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need or merit. Students who qualify for financial aid can use it to pay for college costs like tuition, books, and living expenses.

The federal government is the largest provider of student financial aid. However, aid can also be given by state governments, colleges and universities, private companies, and nonprofits. The different types include:

•  Scholarships: These can be awarded by schools and other organizations based on students’ academic excellence, athletic achievement, community involvement, job experience, field of study, or financial need.

•  Grants: Generally based on financial need, these can come from federal, state, private, or nonprofit organizations.

•  Work-study: This federal program provides qualifying students with part-time employment to earn money for expenses while in school.

•  Federal student loans: This is money borrowed directly from the U.S. Department of Education. It comes with fixed interest rates that are typically lower than private loans.

Colleges, universities, and state agencies use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial aid eligibility. The FAFSA can be completed online, but note that state, federal, and school deadlines may differ.

You can find other financial aid opportunities on databases such as:

•  US Department of Education – Search for grants from colleges and universities by state

•  College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS) – A global college scholarship application used by select institutions to award financial aid

•  SoFi Scholarship Finder – Use our handy tool to streamline your search by award type, location, level of study and more.

Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

Private Student Loans

A large share of students (33%) tap student loans to help pay Ohio State’s tuition and other costs: 32% take out federal loans, and 6% get private student loans (with an average amount of $20,904).

Private loans are funded by private organizations such as banks, online lenders, credit unions, some schools, and state-based or -affiliated organizations. While Federal student loans have interest rates that are regulated by Congress, private lenders follow a different set of regulations so their qualifications and interest rates can vary widely.

What’s more, private loans have variable or fixed interest rates that may be higher than federal loan interest rates, which are always fixed. Private lenders may (but don’t always) require you to make payments on your loans while you are still in school, compared to federal student loans, which you don’t have to start paying back until after you graduate, leave school, or change your enrollment status to less than half-time.

Private loans don’t have a specific application window and can be applied for on an as-needed basis. However, if you think you may need to take out a private loan, it’s a good idea to submit your FAFSA first to see what federal aid you may qualify for, since it generally has better rates and terms.

If you’ve missed the FAFSA deadline or you’re struggling to pay for school during the year, private loans can potentially help you make your tuition payments. Just keep in mind that you will need enough lead time for your loan to process and for your lender to send money to your school.

Recommended: Guide to Private Student Loans

Projected 4-Year-Degree Price

The Ohio State University cost of attendance for four years — including tuition and fees, room and board, books, and other expenses — is $128,328 for in-state students (based on 2024-25 numbers). By comparison, the national average at public universities for in-state students is $115,360 for four years.

For out-of-state residents, the four-year cost for attending Ohio State is $235,440. This is higher than the national average of $186,920 for out-of-state cost of attendance.

This student loan and scholarship information may be valuable as you research schools and costs.

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

Costs for 2024-25

Ohio State’s undergraduate tuition and fees for the 2024-25 academic year were $13,244 for in-state students, a 3.0% increase over 2023-24. The tuition and fees for out-of-state students were $40,022, a 4.3% increase over 2023-24.

Graduate Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for graduate students at Ohio State for 2024-25 averaged $13,901 for in-state students and $42,740 for out-of-state students. This is a good deal for residents: The average cost of graduate school tuition and fees in the U.S. is $22,430 per year.

There are graduate loans available to help with these costs.

Cost per Credit Hour

The cost per credit hour at OSU is $552 for Ohio residents and $1,752 for nonresidents.

Campus Housing Expenses

All first-year students are required to live on campus (unless they are exempted or living with family); after that, students can choose to live on or off campus.

Students can also apply for a Living Learning Community (LLC), which is a group of students who live together on a residence hall floor with a common major, career and/or personal interests.

Costs for 2024-25

•  Housing and food expenses (on campus): $14,738

•  Other living expenses (on campus): $3,070

•  Housing and food expenses (off campus): $13,814

•  Other living expenses (off campus): $3,294

Total living expenses for 2024-25 came to an estimated $17,808 for students who lived on campus and $17,108 for those who lived off campus.

The Ohio State University Acceptance Rate

Ohio State University is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate of 51%.

Admission Requirements

To apply to Ohio State as an incoming freshmen, you’ll need to:

•  Complete the Common App.

•  Have your official high school transcripts sent directly to OSU.

•  Have your official ACT or SAT score sent directly to OSU from the testing agency.

•  Though not required, your counselor may send a maximum of two letters of recommendation electronically through the Common App or Naviance.

Application deadlines:

Early action: Nov. 1

Regular decision: Jan. 15

SAT and ACT Scores

Standardized test scores from ACT or SAT are required for first-year applicants to OSU. Here are the test scores of admitted students who enrolled in Fall 2023 at the 25th and 75th percentiles.

Popular Majors at The Ohio State University

Students at Ohio State can choose from a wide range of majors, including emerging and high-demand career fields. Here’s a look at 10 of of the most popular areas of study:

1. Finance

Finance students learn about budgeting, project costs, debt and dividend policies, and option pricing. Graduates go on to careers in financial management in all types of businesses, firms, and financial institutions.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 605

2. Psychology

Psychology majors study the biological, cognitive, emotional, and social processes related to human and animal behavior.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 605

3. Marketing

Marketing students study the conception, pricing, promotion, and delivery of goods and services in business. Students have the opportunity to specialize in specific areas, such as research, sales client management, communications, and product development.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 472

4. Communication

The communication program emphasizes the power and influence of communication on society. Students learn how to understand audiences, shape messages, and interact with individuals and technologies.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 462

5. Biology

Biology majors study the processes fundamental to all forms of life. This major is a stepping stone for those looking to pursue research, various health professions, teaching, business, or service in government.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 455

6. Computer Science and Engineering

The computer science and engineering (CSE) major focuses on the development of software and how it can be used to solve practical problems and improve productivity, health, and safety in society.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 455

7. Accounting

Accounting majors learn how to analyze and record financial transactions, summarize financial data in statements and reports, and interpret financial data for decision making, tax planning, and budgeting.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 284

8. Neuroscience

Neuroscience majors study the nervous system, including the brain, and pursue careers in research, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology. OSU is home to over 150 neuroscientists conducting scholarly research in a wide range of neuroscience subdisciplines.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 281

9. Nursing

Nursing majors study how to assess, diagnose, and treat actual or potential health problems. The B.S. degree in nursing prepares students to provide general nursing services in hospitals, clinics, businesses, homes, and a variety of other settings.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 235

10. Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical engineering is a broad field that ranges from the design of fine, sensitive instruments to the design of massive power plants. To prepare for such a wide field, mechanical engineers gain a solid foundation in physics, chemistry, and mathematics.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 218

Graduation Rate

While many OSU students complete their degree in four years, some take longer. Here are the graduation rates for students who began at the school in 2017.

•  4 years: 71%

•  6 years: 88%

Post-Graduation Median Earnings

The average annual salary for Ohio State graduates is $80,000. This is higher than the average projected starting salary for the class of 2025 at the bachelor’s degree level, which is $68,680.

By Susan Guillory

(Last Updated – 08/2025)

New York University (NYU), founded in 1831, is one of the largest private universities in the United States, with more than 50,000 students across its global campuses. Its main campus is located in the heart of Manhattan’s Greenwich Village, but NYU also operates degree-granting campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai, along with academic centers in cities like London, Paris, and Sydney.

Keep reading to learn NYU’s cost of attendance and how it compares to the national average, top majors the university offers, NYU’s acceptance rate, and more.

Total Cost of Attendance

NYU tuition and fees is $62,796 for the 2024-25 school year. The national average tuition and fees at private universities is $41,540. The cost of attendance includes not only tuition and fees, but also books, room and board, and other expenses. Here’s a breakdown for the full cost of attendance at NYU.

Financial Aid

For the 2022-23 school year, 49% of first-year students received some sort of financial aid or scholarships to help with NYU tuition. New York University strives to ensure that every student who is eligible is accepted, regardless of financial background. The university makes an effort to offer financial aid packages that fully meet the financial needs of each first-year student.

Recommended: New York Student Loan & Scholarship Information

Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need or merit. Students who qualify for financial aid can use it to pay for college costs like tuition, books, and living expenses.

The federal government is the largest provider of student financial aid. However, aid can also be given by state governments, colleges and universities, private companies, and nonprofits. The different types include:

•  Scholarships: These can be awarded by schools and other organizations based on students’ academic excellence, athletic achievement, community involvement, job experience, field of study, or financial need.

•  Grants: Generally based on financial need, these can come from federal, state, private, or nonprofit organizations.

•  Work-study: This federal program provides qualifying students with part-time employment to earn money for expenses while in school.

•  Federal student loans: This is money borrowed directly from the U.S. Department of Education. It comes with fixed interest rates that are typically lower than private loans.

Colleges, universities, and state agencies use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial aid eligibility. The FAFSA can be completed online, but note that state, federal and school deadlines may differ.

You can find other financial aid opportunities on databases such as:

•  US Department of Education – Search for grants from colleges and universities by state

•  College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS) – A global college scholarship application used by select institutions to award financial aid

•  SoFi Scholarship Finder

Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

Private Student Loans

While some students opt for federal student loans to help with tuition at NYU, 5% of NYU students get private student loans, averaging $21,824 in aid.

Private student loans are funded by private organizations such as banks, online lenders, credit unions, some schools, and state-based or -affiliated organizations. While federal student loans have interest rates that are regulated by Congress, private lenders follow a different set of regulations, so their qualifications and interest rates can vary widely.

What’s more, private loans have variable or fixed interest rates that may be higher than federal loan interest rates, which are always fixed. Private lenders may (but don’t always) require you to make payments on your loans while you are still in school. Federal student loans don’t have to be paid back until after you graduate, leave school, or change your enrollment status to less than half-time.

Private loans don’t have a specific application window and can be applied for on an as-needed basis. However, if you think you may need to take out a private loan, it’s a good idea to submit your FAFSA first to see what federal aid you may qualify for, because it generally has better rates and terms.

If you’ve missed the FAFSA deadline or you’re struggling to pay for school during the year, private loans can potentially help you make your tuition payments. Just keep in mind that you will need enough lead time for your loan to process and for your lender to send money to your school.

Recommended: Guide to Private Student Loans

Projected 4-Year-Degree Price

Curious to know what New York University undergraduate tuition and fees would be for a four-year program? Based on 2023-24 prices, you would pay $368,208 for tuition, fees, and room and board. Compare this to the national average for private institutions of $241,680, per CollegeData.com.

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

NYU students paid approximately $64,238 for tuition, fees, and books in the 2024-25 school year.

Graduate Tuition and Fees

New York University also offers graduate programs. Graduate tuition at NYU was, on average, $40,374 for the 2024-25 school year, and additional fees were $2,352.

Students can obtain graduate loans to help with the costs.

Cost per Credit Hour

For students who don’t opt to go to NYU full time, they can pay for tuition on a per-unit basis. In spring 2025, the fee was $1,916 per credit, plus fees.

Campus Housing Expenses

NYU has 23 residence halls, many of which are in Greenwich Village. And while students aren’t required to live in a residence hall, more than 11,000 students choose to.

New York University offers off-campus housing, too, though some students opt to find their own accommodations. Off-campus housing is variable depending on location and roommates, but typically starts at $1,855 per month.

NYU Acceptance Rate

Admission Requirements

While there is no published required GPA, the average GPA is 3.81 for accepted students. NYU looks at your complete application, including test scores if you choose to submit them, though the school does have a test-optional policy.

Required:

•  Secondary school record

•  Secondary school GPA

•  Recommendations

•  Formal demonstration of competencies

•  Personal statement or essay

Recommended:

•  Completion of college-preparatory program

•  Work experience

The deadline to apply for Early Decision I is November 1, and NYU will make a decision on your application by December 15. For Early Decision II, the deadline is January 1, with a decision by February 15. The deadline for Regular Decision is January 5, with a decision by April 1.

SAT and ACT Scores

New York University is currently not requiring students to submit SAT or ACT scores, though it is an option to do so.

Here are the average scores for NYU students by subject at the 25th and 75th percentiles:

Popular Majors at NYU

NYU offers more than 270 areas of study and draws students in with the diverse subjects they can focus on. Popular majors include the following:

1. Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies

Liberal arts and sciences majors are the most popular. Students can specialize in dozens of areas of focus, including Hellenic Studies, History, African Studies, Language and Mind, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 524

2. Econometrics and Quantitative Economics

Diving even deeper into the area of business, NYU offers economics. This major includes courses in business economics, economic theory, and general business courses.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 464

3. Research and Experimental Psychology

Interested in psychology? At NYU, you can study psychology, learning theories, and how to analyze concepts at the Abu Dhabi campus.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 438

4. Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse

The second most popular degree at NYU is nursing, the Rory Meyers College of Nursing is a well-respected institution, specializing in preparing students to help patients in a variety of medical environments.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 437

5. Business/Commerce

NYU’s business programs are also popular. Studies include courses in business technology, accounting, global business, public policy, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 414

6. Cinematography and Film/Video Production

NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts is well-known for producing cinematographers and film professionals.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 397

7. Computer and Information Sciences

Many students earn degrees in computer and information sciences. This includes computer engineering, computer science, and business, technology, and entrepreneurship.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 389

8. Digital Communication and Media/Multimedia

A degree in digital communication provides a great backdrop for a variety of careers in marketing, business, and journalism. Courses run the gamut from journalism to digital art and design.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 379

9. Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts

Students also study drama at NYU. This program includes courses in dramatic writing and literature, collaborative arts, and educational theater.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 342

10. Management Science

NYU students also graduate equipped to have a career in management. Courses include hotel and tourism management, as well as business technology management.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 210

Graduation Rate

The graduation rate for students at NYU who began in Fall 2017 is as follows:

•   4-year: 76%

•   6-year: 89%

Post-Graduation Median Earnings

The median salary for graduates of four-year schools across the board is $80,236. The median earnings of an NYU graduate is $82,509, which is slightly above the national median salary.

By Susan Guillory

(Last Updated – 08/2025)

Louisiana State University, located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is a comprehensive school, offering a wide variety of programs to study. It has gained recognition on several fronts, with U.S. News & World Report ranking it #179 among national universities and #97 among top public schools.

Total Cost of Attendance

LSU’s total cost of attendance for the 2024-25 school year is $36,064 for in-state students, and out-of-state tuition is $52,741. Compare this to the national averages for public four-year schools of $28,840 for in-state students and $46,730 for out-of-state students. For both types of students, LSU costs more than the national average by a considerable amount.

Financial Aid

For the most recent school year studied, 93% of students at Louisiana State University received some form of financial aid, which includes student loans, scholarships, and grants to help with LSU tuition.

Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need or merit. Students who qualify for financial aid can use it to pay for college costs like tuition, books, and living expenses.

The federal government is the largest provider of student financial aid. However, aid can also be given by state governments, colleges and universities, private companies, and nonprofits. The different types include:

•  Scholarships: These can be awarded by schools and other organizations based on students’ academic excellence, athletic achievement, community involvement, job experience, field of study, or financial need.

•  Grants: Generally based on financial need, these can come from federal, state, private, or nonprofit organizations.

•  Work-study: This federal program provides qualifying students with part-time employment to earn money for expenses while in school.

•  Federal student loans: This is money borrowed directly from the U.S. Department of Education. It comes with fixed interest rates that are typically lower than private loans.

Colleges, universities, and state agencies use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial aid eligibility. The FAFSA can be completed online, but note that state, federal, and school deadlines may differ.

You can find other financial aid opportunities on databases such as:

•  US Department of Education – Search for grants from colleges and universities by state

•  College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS) – A global college scholarship application used by select institutions to award financial aid

Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

Private Student Loans

While 37% of the students took out federal student loans, just 6% took out private student loans, with an average loan amount of $20,637.

Private loans are funded by private organizations such as banks, online lenders, credit unions, some schools, and state-based or -affiliated organizations. While Federal student loans have interest rates that are regulated by Congress, private lenders follow a different set of regulations so their qualifications and interest rates can vary widely.

What’s more, private loans have variable or fixed interest rates that may be higher than federal loan interest rates, which are always fixed. Private lenders may (but don’t always) require you to make payments on your loans while you are still in school, compared to federal student loans, which you don’t have to start paying back until after you graduate, leave school, or change your enrollment status to less than half-time.

Private loans don’t have a specific application window and can be applied for on an as-needed basis. However, if you think you may need to take out a private loan, it’s a good idea to submit your FAFSA first to see what federal aid you may qualify for, since it generally has better rates and terms.

If you’ve missed the FAFSA deadline or you’re struggling to pay for school during the year, private loans can potentially help you make your tuition payments. Just keep in mind that you will need enough lead time for your loan to process and for your lender to send money to your school.

Recommended: Guide to Private Student Loans

Projected 4-Year-Degree Price

The price for LSU tuition, room and board, books, and other fees for four years, based on the 2024-25 rates, would be $144,256 for in-state and $210,964 for out-of-state. In comparison, the average total cost for four years for a public university in the U.S. is $115,360 for in-state students, and $186,920 for out-of-state.

Get Louisiana Student Loan & Scholarship Information here.

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

In-state students pay $13,038 for LSU tuition and books. Those who come from other states pay $29,715 for tuition and books. In terms of national averages, the current costs are $11,260 in state and $29,150, meaning that LSU is a bit pricier than the norm.

Graduate Tuition and Fees

In-state students interested in graduate school at LSU pay $13,027 for tuition and fees in 2024-25, while out-of-state students pay $29,962. There are graduate loans available to help with these costs. To compare, it costs on average $21,730 per year for graduate school in the U.S.

Campus Housing Expenses

All first-year students must live on campus at LSU. There are both residence halls and residential colleges to choose from. The residential colleges consist of smaller communities of students who have common majors or interests.

Upperclass students can opt to live off campus, and there are properties available through LSU’s off-campus living website. Find out about off-campus housing resources to learn more about off-campus housing.

LSU Acceptance Rate

The LSU acceptance rate is high. Of the 42,558 students who apply, 74% are accepted.

Admission Requirements

Here’s what you need to apply to attend LSU:

Required:

•  Academic record

•  Letters of recommendation

•  Secondary school GPA

Recommended:

•  SAT or ACT scores

You can apply to LSU here .

SAT and ACT Scores

Louisiana State University is a test-optional institution. Here are the test scores for the 25th and 75th percentile:

Popular Majors at LSU

LSU offers more than 330 fields to study. To help you narrow it down, here’s a look at the most popular majors.

1. Biology

A degree in biology prepares students for careers as environmental scientists, conservationists, medical professionals, and more. There is an optional concentration available in marine biology.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 368

2. Physical Education and Coaching

If the idea of becoming a coach, personal trainer, or physical therapist appeals to you, consider LSU’s physical education and coaching program. You’ll learn about kinesiology, health, and human performance.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 365

3. Mass Communication

Students interested in communication can choose from these concentrations: digital advertising, journalism, political communication, and public relations.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 282

4. Business Administration

LSU offers a robust degree in business, providing students with a solid foundation in accounting, economics, finance, information systems, and decision sciences, management, and marketing.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 225

5. Psychology

If you’re interested in human behavior, a degree in psychology might be a good fit. It can prepare you for a career as a counselor, school psychologist, crisis worker, or mental health advocate.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 219

6. Construction Management

Construction management majors will learn aspects of both business and engineering with coursework in estimating/budgeting, contract law, construction methods and materials, scheduling, safety, and effective communication.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 180

7. Marketing

Not only do marketing students have the opportunity to travel to Europe and learn marketing best practices at international firms, but they can also focus their studies on professional sales, digital marketing, or marketing analytics.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 212

8. Sport and Fitness Administration

This program teaches you the fundamentals behind managing the ever-evolving sport industry through hands-on experience. Students can concentrate in either sport commerce or sport leadership.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 159

9. Sociology

If you are intrigued by the patterns of human behavior, a sociology degree may be a good option. LSU sociology students learn how society functions and how individuals function within a society. Some students also concentrate in criminology.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 143

10. Interdisciplinary Studies

This program is meant for driven, independent, and creative students who think outside of the box. This degree allows you to design your own program at LSU to best fit your professional needs and helps you become an innovative problem-solver in organizations.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 127

To find out more about the majors LSU offers, check out this resource .

Graduation Rate

How many students at LSU graduate? The 6-year graduation rate for students who started in 2017 is 71%.

Post-Graduation Median Earnings

After completing an undergraduate degree at LSU, students can earn, on average, $61,251 per year. The overall average starting salary for the class of 2024 in the U.S. is $68,516.

By Kelly Boyer Sagert

(Last Updated – 08/2025)

Michigan State University is a four-year public university located in East Lansing, Michigan. The university offers certificates, as well as degrees ranging from bachelors to doctorates.

Here’s what you need to know about MSU, including admission requirements, Michigan State acceptance rate, MSU tuition, financial aid stats, popular majors, and more.

Total Cost of Attendance

Michigan State University is a top-ranking research institution with a diverse student body and a strong athletics program. With more than 52,000 students from all 50 states and over 130 countries, MSU offers more than 200 programs of study.

In the United States, public four-year in-state cost of attendance was $28,840 on average, while public four-year out-of-state cost of attendance was $46,730.

Financial Aid

In 2022-23, 97% of first-time, full-time undergraduates received some kind of financial aid, and the university is generous with institutional funding. These are the types of financial aid students received:

•  Grants or scholarships: 96% received them with an average award of $8,147

•  Federal grants: 18% received them with an average award of $5,578

•  Pell grants: 18% received them with an average award of $5,379

•  Student loan aid: 35% received them with an average award of $9,086

•  Federal student loans: 32% received them with an average award of $5,355

•  Other student loans: 7% received them with an average award of $20,049

Explore financial aid options: Michigan Student Loan & Scholarships

Generally, financial aid is monetary assistance awarded to students based on personal need or merit. Students that qualify for financial aid can use it to pay for college costs like tuition, books, and living expenses.

The federal government is the largest provider of student financial aid. However, aid can also be given by state governments, colleges and universities, private companies, or nonprofits. The different types include:

•  Scholarships: These can be awarded by schools and other organizations based on students’ academic excellence, athletic achievement, community involvement, job experience, field of study, or financial need.

•  Grants: Generally based on financial need, these can come from federal, state, private, and non-profit organizations.

•  Work-study: This federal program provides qualifying students with part-time employment to earn money for expenses while in school.

•  Federal student loans: This is money borrowed directly from the U.S. Department of Education. It comes with fixed interest rates that are typically lower than private loans.

Colleges, universities, and state agencies use the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine financial aid eligibility. The FAFSA can be completed online, but note that state and federal and school deadlines may differ.

You can find other financial aid opportunities on databases such as:

•  US Department of Education – Search for grants from colleges and universities by state

•  College Scholarship Service Profile (CSS) – A global college scholarship application used by select institutions to award financial aid

•  SoFi Scholarship Finder

Recommended: The Differences Between Grants, Scholarships, and Loans

Private Student Loans

In 2022-23, 7% of incoming students at MSU received private student loans.

Private student loans are funded by private organizations such as banks, online lenders, credit unions, some schools, and state-based or -affiliated organizations. While federal student loans have interest rates that are regulated by Congress, private lenders follow a different set of regulations, so their qualifications and interest rates can vary widely.

What’s more, private loans have variable or fixed interest rates that may be higher than federal loan interest rates, which are always fixed. Private lenders may (but don’t always) require you to make payments on your loans while you are still in school. Federal student loans don’t have to be paid back until after you graduate, leave school, or change your enrollment status to less than half-time.

Private loans don’t have a specific application window and can be applied for on an as-needed basis. However, if you think you may need to take out a private loan, it’s a good idea to submit your FAFSA first to see what federal aid you may qualify for, because it generally has better rates and terms.

If you’ve missed the FAFSA deadline or you’re struggling to pay for school throughout the year, private loans can potentially help you make your tuition payments. Just keep in mind that you will need enough lead time for your loan to process and for your lender to send money to your school.

Recommended: Guide to Private Student Loans

Projected 4-Year-Degree Price

The 2024-25 Michigan State University cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room and board, books, and other expenses was:

•  In-state: Four years at MSU (based on 2024-25 total costs) is $137,280 total, not accounting for any Michigan State tuition increases.

•  Out-of-state: Four years at MSU (based on 2024-25 total costs) equals $246,496, not accounting for any increases.

How does that amount compare to other schools across the country? For the 2023-24 academic year, the average price of tuition and fees among colleges and universities was as follows:

•  In-state: Cost of attendance for four years at a public in-state college averages $115,360.

•  Out-of-state: Cost of attendance for four years at a public out-of-state college averages $186,920.

Undergraduate Tuition and Fees

The combined cost of MSU tuition, fees, and books in 2024-25 was $17,838 for Michigan residents and $45,222 for non-residents.

Graduate Tuition and Fees

Assuming a two-year program, a master’s degree from Michigan State would cost $43,544 for in-state students and $89,696 for out-of-state students.

Students can obtain graduate loans to help with the costs.

Cost per Credit Hour

For the Fall 2025 semester for freshman, the cost per credit hour was $563.75 for 1-11 credits. For 12-18 credits, the cost was a flat-rate fee of $8,458.00.

Campus Housing Expenses

MSU offers information about on-campus housing with students wishing to live in a one-bedroom or studio apartment with a full bathroom and a kitchen. MSU has 27 residence halls, and for the first two years, students are required to live on campus.

Off campus apartments are also available near the campus, ranging from one to four bedrooms. Apartments start at $439 per month, but can vary substantially based on the location, apartment style, and number of roommates you wish to have. For housing not associated with the university, leases may be for a full year rather than the academic year.

Michigan State University Acceptance Rate

Admission Requirements

Besides the application, admission requirements include:

Required:

•  High school transcripts

•  Personal statement or essay

Items considered:

•  Work experience

•  Letters of recommendation

•  SAT/ACT test scores

Application due dates:

•  Early action, non-binding: November 1

•  Regular: April 1 (priority: February 1)

SAT and ACT Scores

Michigan State University is test-optional, meaning that students are not required to submit SAT and ACT test scores. If you choose to submit them, send them with your application. In Fall 2023, 39% of applicants submitted SAT scores while 7% submitted ACT scores. These were the 25th and 75th percentiles:

Popular Majors at Michigan State

In 2023-24, close to 9,000 bachelor’s degrees were awarded by MSU. Popular majors include the following:

1. Biology

In this program, students gain strong competencies in core biological disciplines, including anatomy, biochemistry, cell biology, genetics, and physiology.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 497

2. Psychology

Students study human behaviors and the mental processes underlying them in this diverse discipline. Students may develop interests in neuroscience, behavioral science, and more from this foundational degree.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 425

3. Advertising

MSU’s advertising program is consistently ranked as one of the three best in the nation. Undergraduates learn how to develop strategic thinking, researching, analytical skills, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 413

4. Computer Science

From computer science theory to new technologies and approaches, students learn computing principles, software development, communication skills, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 372

5. Supply Chain Management

Students in this program study to become supply chain leaders and learn to nimbly adapt to changes as they source and deliver products and services. They also discover how to use innovative technologies to effectively manage supply chains.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 364

6. Finance

Finance majors study financial concepts and instruments to learn crucial decision-making skills for future employment in financial institutions, corporations, and more. Classes focus on ethics and a global approach.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 350

7. Exercise Science & Kinesiology

Those who choose this major focus on physical activity and movement and how it impacts someone’s health and quality of life. Classes range from sports business management to athletic training, community education, and more.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 298

8. Mechanical Engineering

About 33% of all MSU engineering students choose this specialty, and they can benefit by participating in leading edge research alongside professors involved in pioneering work.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 279

9. Economics

Students receive education in domestic and international economies, learning about concepts, policies, analyses, and more. This degree prepares students for a broad range of business careers.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 192

10. Mass Communication

This program prepares undergraduates for a wide range of workplaces (profit, nonprofit, startups, and more) with a focus on persuasive leadership. This goal: to influence society in a positive way.

Undergraduate degrees in 2023-24: 147

Graduation Rate

MSU graduation rate for students who began in Fall 2017 was:

•  4-year: 65%

•  6-year: 83%

Post-Graduation Median Earnings

Median salary for MSU graduates is $67,253. This is slightly lower compared to the median of $80,236 for four-year public universities across the United States.