Michigan State University (MSU) is one of the largest public research universities in the United States and a highly respected member of the Big Ten Conference. Each year, tens of thousands of high school seniors apply to MSU, hoping to earn a spot at this prestigious institution.
If you’re planning to apply for the 2025/2026 academic year, two of the most important factors you’ll need to consider are the ACT scores and GPA requirements. These benchmarks play a major role in determining whether you’re a strong candidate for admission.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Michigan State University ACT cutoff scores, GPA requirements, and the strategies you can use to improve your application.
Why ACT and GPA Scores Matter at Michigan State University
Colleges like MSU use GPA and standardized test scores as key indicators of academic readiness. These numbers help admissions officers quickly assess a student’s potential success in college-level coursework.
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GPA reflects your long-term performance in high school.
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ACT demonstrates your ability to handle standardized assessments in math, reading, science, and English.
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Together, they give MSU a balanced view of your academic background.
While Michigan State has adopted test-optional policies in recent years, strong ACT scores can still boost your application and may even help with scholarships.
Michigan State University GPA Cutoff (2025 Edition)
What GPA Do You Need for Michigan State?
For 2025 admission, Michigan State expects applicants to have a strong GPA. While there isn’t an official hard cutoff, competitive applicants usually have at least a 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
Breakdown of GPA Expectations
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3.8 – 4.0 GPA: Excellent chance of admission, especially with strong extracurriculars.
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3.5 – 3.7 GPA: Solid range; competitive for most programs.
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3.0 – 3.4 GPA: Possible admission, but you’ll need strong ACT scores or other application strengths.
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Below 3.0 GPA: Much more challenging; may require alternative pathways or starting at a community college.
Why GPA Matters
MSU emphasizes GPA because it represents four years of consistent performance, not just one test day. Admissions officers view GPA as a measure of discipline, study habits, and readiness for college-level work.
Michigan State University ACT Cutoff (2025 Edition)
What ACT Score Do You Need?
Michigan State looks for ACT scores in the mid-to-high 20s range.
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ACT 30 – 34: Excellent, highly competitive for admission and scholarships.
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ACT 26 – 29: Solid range for most applicants.
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ACT 22 – 25: Still acceptable, especially if GPA is strong.
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ACT below 21: May lower your chances unless other factors (essays, recommendations) are very strong.
Super-Scoring Policy
Michigan State may consider your highest composite score if you take the ACT multiple times. This means retaking the exam could improve your admissions chances.
ACT vs GPA: Which Matters More at MSU?
At Michigan State, both GPA and ACT are important, but GPA often carries more weight because it reflects consistent performance. However, if your GPA is slightly lower, a higher ACT score can balance your application.
Example:
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A student with a 3.2 GPA but a 29 ACT still has a strong chance.
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A student with a 3.7 GPA but a 22 ACT may also be considered competitive.
Holistic Admissions at Michigan State University
Michigan State does not rely only on ACT and GPA. They use a holistic admissions process, meaning they also consider:
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High School Course Rigor – Taking AP, IB, or honors courses boosts your application.
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Essays – A strong personal statement helps you stand out.
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Extracurriculars – Sports, clubs, leadership roles, and volunteering matter.
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Letters of Recommendation – Provide insight into your character and work ethic.
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Special Talents or Backgrounds – Diversity, unique experiences, or achievements are valued.
Admission Chances at Michigan State by GPA and ACT
To give you a clearer picture, here’s a breakdown of estimated admission chances:
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3.8 GPA + ACT 30+ → Very high chance (90%+).
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3.5 GPA + ACT 26–29 → Strong chance (75–85%).
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3.2 GPA + ACT 23–25 → Moderate chance (60–70%).
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3.0 GPA + ACT 21–22 → Possible, but competitive (40–50%).
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Below 3.0 GPA or ACT under 20 → Low chance; may require alternative pathway.
Tips to Strengthen Your Michigan State Application
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Retake the ACT – Even a 2–3 point increase can significantly boost your chances.
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Take Challenging Courses – Show MSU you’re ready for rigorous academics.
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Write a Strong Essay – Tell your story, explain challenges, and show why MSU is right for you.
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Get Recommendations – Choose teachers who know you well and can highlight your strengths.
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Apply Early – Submitting your application early increases your chances of consideration.
Programs with Higher GPA/ACT Requirements
Some majors at MSU are more competitive than others. For example:
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Engineering and Computer Science → Expect GPA closer to 3.7+ and ACT 28+.
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Business (Broad College of Business) → Highly competitive; strong GPA and ACT required.
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Nursing → One of the most selective programs; higher GPA and test scores recommended.
Less selective programs may admit students with slightly lower GPAs or ACT scores.
Financial Aid and Scholarships at MSU
Strong GPA and ACT scores don’t just help you gain admission—they can also qualify you for scholarships.
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Merit Scholarships: Awarded to students with high GPAs and ACT scores.
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Honors College: Students with excellent academics may receive additional benefits.
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Need-Based Aid: MSU offers financial aid for students with demonstrated need.
Summary Table: Michigan State University GPA and ACT Cutoffs (2025)
| Category | Competitive Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| GPA for Admission | 3.5 – 4.0 | Strong chance of admission |
| Minimum GPA Considered | 3.0 | Possible with strong ACT or other factors |
| ACT Score Range (Typical) | 26 – 30+ | Higher scores improve scholarship chances |
| Minimum ACT Considered | 21 – 22 | Lower scores possible but less competitive |
| Strongest Applicants | 3.7+ GPA & ACT 30+ | Best chance for admission and aid |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the average GPA for Michigan State University admission?
Most admitted students have a GPA around 3.5 to 3.8.
2. Does Michigan State have a minimum GPA cutoff?
There is no strict cutoff, but applicants below 3.0 GPA may struggle to gain admission.
3. What ACT score is needed for Michigan State?
Most successful applicants score between 26 and 30+.
4. Is Michigan State test-optional in 2025?
Yes, but submitting strong ACT scores can still improve your application.
5. Can a 3.0 GPA student get into Michigan State?
Yes, especially with a solid ACT score or strong extracurriculars.
6. Do certain majors at MSU require higher scores?
Yes. Business, Nursing, and Engineering often require stronger GPAs and ACT scores.
7. Can I get a scholarship at MSU with a 3.5 GPA and ACT 28?
Yes. Many merit scholarships are available in this range.
8. Should I retake the ACT if I score below 24?
Yes. Improving your score will strengthen your chances.
9. What is more important, GPA or ACT at MSU?
GPA carries more weight, but ACT scores can help balance a lower GPA.
10. Does Michigan State accept community college transfers?
Yes. Transfer pathways are available for students who start elsewhere.
Conclusion
Michigan State University is a competitive but accessible school for students with strong academic records. For 2025 admission, aim for at least a 3.5 GPA and ACT 26+ to maximize your chances. While there are no hard cutoffs, higher scores will open doors to selective programs and scholarships.
If your GPA or ACT is lower, don’t be discouraged—focus on strengthening other parts of your application, retake the ACT if possible, and highlight your unique strengths. With the right preparation, you can join the Spartan community and take advantage of everything Michigan State has to offer.