Michigan State University SAT & ACT Scores

MSU went test optional for students entering in fall 2021, and the policy still applies to the fall 2027 application. You choose on the application whether you want SAT or ACT scores included in your review. If you include them, you can self-report scores, and MSU will make admission and scholarship decisions on them. If you are admitted and enroll, you must have official scores sent from the testing agency before New Student Orientation. Self-reported scores can't be updated after you apply, so any later scores must be sent officially. If you apply without scores, counselors will not see scores you sent earlier, and you are still considered for merit scholarships. MSU does not superscore: it looks at your highest total SAT or composite ACT from one sitting. The ACT writing and science portions are recommended but not required.

The middle 50% of enrolled students in the fall 2025 entering class who sent the SAT scored 1100–1310, with a median of 1210. A quarter scored 1100 or below, and a quarter scored 1310 or above. Section ranges were 550–660 in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and 530–660 in Math.

51.5% of enrolled students sent SAT scores, compared with 6.8% who sent the ACT. Because scores are optional, these ranges describe only students who chose to submit. The admissions site's profile of the fall 2026 entering class shows a very similar SAT range.

Because MSU uses your highest total SAT from a single test date, plan around your best full sitting. Sending more than one set of scores carries no penalty, since lower scores are disregarded.

Only 6.8% of the fall 2025 entering class sent the ACT. Their middle 50% composite was 25–31, with a median of 28. English scores ran 24–32 and Math scores ran 24–30.

MSU looks at your highest composite from one ACT sitting and does not combine section scores across dates. A composite of 31 or higher sits in the top quarter of enrolled students who sent the ACT. A score below 25 falls under the middle half, and you can apply without it.

Michigan State University offers non-binding Early Action, which brings an earlier initial decision and maximum scholarship consideration. Regular Decision applications are read on a rolling basis into the spring. There is no Early Decision.

If you send scores to Michigan State University, a practical target is a single-sitting SAT of 1310 or an ACT of 31, the 75th percentile for enrolled students who submitted. Scores near 1210 or 28 are typical of that group. If your best score is well below 1100 or 25, applying without it is an option, and you remain eligible for merit scholarships.

MSU says test scores make up a small part of its decision and that it has no minimum requirements. It looks at your academic performance in high school, the strength of your curriculum, recent trends in your grades, your class rank, and your leadership, talents, conduct and diversity of experience. MSU strongly encourages a college preparatory curriculum and advises applying early, because qualified applicants have exceeded available space in recent years.