Explore alternatives based on outcomes, location, cost, and admission difficulty
Given Grand Valley State's 94.7% acceptance rate, admission is accessible for most students meeting basic eligibility requirements. However, students seeking different options may consider alternatives below.
Strong options in the same region with comparable academic profiles.
For students preferring to stay in Michigan, Central Michigan University offers nearly identical outcomes with a 91% acceptance rate and median earnings of $55,874 just 71 miles away. Western Michigan University provides similar career preparation with median earnings of $53,562 at 49 miles distance, though with slightly more selective admission at 84.7%. Ferris State University delivers comparable earnings of $54,735 with 80.6% acceptance and significantly lower net costs at $12,202 versus Grand Valley State's $17,096.
Same state (71 miles away) with nearly identical earnings and similar program focus; same institution type
Schools with comparable admission profiles — useful for building a balanced list.
For students seeking similar accessibility elsewhere, Central Michigan University admits 91% of applicants with nearly identical earnings outcomes and strong program overlap. Bethel University in Indiana maintains 98.7% acceptance with earnings of $48,860, offering a private alternative 90 miles away. Baker College provides 87.5% acceptance within Michigan, though with lower earnings of $35,833.
Elite universities with similar prestige and academic caliber
