Ferris State University admits approximately 80.6% of applicants, meaning roughly 4 in 5 applicants receive offers of admission. This places Ferris State in the Open Access category, reflecting the institution's commitment to providing broad educational opportunity. The peer median admission rate of 84.6% indicates that Ferris State is slightly more selective than typical institutions in its comparison group, though the 4 percentage point difference is modest. This level of accessibility means that most academically prepared students can expect admission, though meeting basic academic requirements remains important. For students building college lists, Ferris State represents a reliable option for those seeking career-focused programs without the uncertainty associated with highly selective admission processes. The institution's open access philosophy aligns with its mission to serve diverse student populations, including significant shares of first-generation and Pell-eligible students. Students should focus on demonstrating academic readiness and genuine interest in the institution's practical, career-oriented programs rather than worrying about highly competitive admission standards. This accessibility makes Ferris State an appropriate choice for students seeking solid outcomes without the stress of uncertain admission decisions.
A directional estimate — not a prediction
Admitted students at Ferris State University typically score 890-1120 on the SAT, with the middle 50% falling in this range and a median of 1001. SAT Math scores range from 440-550, while SAT Verbal scores span 450-570, indicating balanced preparation across quantitative and verbal reasoning. ACT scores for enrolled students range from 18-26 with a median of 23, demonstrating solid academic preparation for college-level coursework. The peer median SAT score of 1090 shows that Ferris State students score 89 points below typical institutions in its comparison group, though this difference reflects the institution's more inclusive admission approach rather than lower academic standards. Students scoring within the 890-1120 SAT range or 18-26 ACT range align well with the enrolled student body and can expect to find academically similar peers. The 25th percentile represents students who scored 890 on the SAT or 18 on the ACT—these are not minimum requirements but rather indicate that one-quarter of enrolled students scored at or below these levels. Similarly, the 75th percentile scores of 1120 SAT or 26 ACT show that one-quarter scored at or above these levels. Students scoring below the 25th percentile should consider whether their academic preparation aligns with the rigor of their intended program, particularly in competitive fields like engineering technology or nursing. Those scoring above the 75th percentile may want to consider whether Ferris State's academic environment provides sufficient challenge for their educational goals.
Understanding institutional priorities and student support
Ferris State University enrolls a diverse student body that reflects the institution's commitment to broad educational access. The university enrolls 33.6% Pell-eligible students, indicating that approximately one-third of students come from lower-income families eligible for federal Pell grants. First-generation students comprise 35.3% of enrollment, meaning more than one in three students are the first in their families to attend college. Transfer students represent 34.9% of enrollment, demonstrating the institution's strong commitment to serving students who begin their higher education journey at community colleges or other institutions. This composition suggests that Ferris State actively welcomes students from diverse educational and economic backgrounds rather than focusing primarily on traditional four-year college students. The significant transfer population indicates well-established pathways for community college graduates seeking to complete bachelor's degrees. First-generation students should know that more than one-third of enrolled students share their background, potentially providing peer support and institutional familiarity with first-generation needs. Students from lower-income families can expect to find substantial representation among their peers, with Pell-eligible students comprising more than one-third of the student body. The diverse composition reflects the institution's practical mission of providing career preparation across different student populations and educational backgrounds.
Given Ferris State's 80.6% acceptance rate, most academically prepared students should expect admission. However, students seeking similar career-focused outcomes or different geographic options should consider these alternatives.
Strong options in your region with comparable outcomes.
Students who enroll at Ferris State University demonstrate solid persistence and completion outcomes, though with room for improvement relative to national averages. The retention rate of 72.8% means that nearly three-quarters of freshmen return for their sophomore year, which matches closely with the peer median of 73.2%, indicating typical performance for similar institutions. The six-year graduation rate of 47.9% falls slightly below the peer median of 49.3%, though this difference is modest. Pell-eligible students graduate at a rate of 49.9%, which actually exceeds the overall graduation rate by 2 percentage points—an unusual and positive indicator of institutional support for lower-income students. This reverse gap suggests that Ferris State provides effective support systems that help Pell-eligible students succeed at rates equal to or better than their non-Pell peers. Students who gain admission can expect institutional support systems designed to promote degree completion, though individual commitment to academic success remains crucial. Lower-income students should view the positive Pell completion gap as evidence that the institution understands and addresses the unique challenges faced by students from lower-income backgrounds. Prospective students should consider that while graduation rates are moderate, the institution demonstrates particular effectiveness in supporting first-generation and Pell-eligible students through degree completion. The relatively modest completion rates reflect the practical, career-focused nature of programs that may attract some students who enter the workforce before completing degrees.
Similar quality tier in Midwest (#236 ranked)
Schools with comparable admission profiles — useful for building a balanced list.
Similar quality tier (#241 ranked)
Similar quality tier (#239 ranked)
Similar quality tier (#244 ranked)
Similar quality tier (#246 ranked)
Similar quality tier (#253 ranked)
Higher acceptance rates with similar career outcomes.
Build a balanced list with schools at different selectivity and price points.
Explore More Schools