About

University Type

Public

University Type

US News National rank

329

US News National rank

Average Living Expenses

$32,870

Average Living Expenses

Ferris State University (FSU or Ferris) is a public university with its main campus in Big Rapids, Michigan. It was founded in 1884 and became a public institution in 1950. Ferris is the ninth-largest institution of higher education by enrollment in the state, with over 10,000 students studying on its main campus, at one of the 19 off-campus locations across the state, or online. Two- and four-year degrees are offered through eight academic colleges, and graduate degrees from six. The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in a wide range of fields, including business, engineering, healthcare, education, and the arts.

Ferris also has several research centres and institutes, including the National Center for Manufacturing Sciences, the Great Lakes Institute for Public Policy, and the Ferris State University College of Pharmacy. Ferris State University Pharmacy program offers a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) from the College of Pharmacy in Big Rapids. It offers a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy (BSPharm) from the College of Pharmacy in Grand Rapids. Ferris State University is a Mid-American Conference (MAC) member and competes in 16 varsity sports. The university's mascot is the Bulldog, and its colours are blue and gold.

According to the Ferris State University website, the acceptance rate for international students for the Fall 2022 was 41%. The tuition fees for international students at Ferris State University vary depending on the student's program of study and the number of credit hours they are taking.

For undergraduate students, the tuition fees for the 2022-2023 academic year are as follows:

  • Freshman/Sophomore: $19,396 per year
  • Junior/Senior: $23,800 per year

For graduate students, the tuition fees for the 2022-2023 academic year are as follows:

  • Master's: $11,966 per year
  • Doctoral: $12,526 per year

In addition to tuition fees, international students also need to pay various other fees, such as the student activity fee, the technology fee, and the health insurance fee. 

Ferris State University is not ranked in the top 1,000 universities by any significant global ranking organisation. However, it is ranked #331-440 out of 443 National Universities in the U.S. News & World Report's 2022 edition. It is also ranked #169-227 in Top Public Schools in the same edition.

Top Reasons to Study in the Ferris State University

  • High-quality education: Ferris State University is a public university with a strong reputation for academic excellence. The university offers over 180 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, and its graduates are well-prepared for success in their chosen fields.
  • Focus on applied learning: Ferris State University is committed to providing students with hands-on learning experiences. The university has a strong focus on experiential learning, and many of its programs offer students the opportunity to participate in internships, research projects, and other hands-on learning opportunities.
  • Diversity and inclusion: Ferris State University is a diverse and inclusive university. The university's student body is 40% minority and is recognised as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) and an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution (AANAPISI). The university is committed to providing all students with a welcoming and supportive environment.
  • Convenient location: Ferris State University is in Big Rapids, Michigan, a small city with about 30,000 people. The city is in the middle of the state, within a short drive of several major cities, including Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Detroit.
  • Affordable tuition: Ferris State University is a public university, so tuition is more affordable than many private universities. The university also offers a variety of financial aid options, so students can afford to attend without going into debt.

Courses

Cost of Studying at Ferris State University

Average tuition fee

Reasonable

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Living expenses

Average living expenses (Bachelors)

$32,000

Average living expenses (Masters)

$32,870

Admissions at The Ferris State University

Avg acceptance rate (Bachelors)

84%

Application Fee

$30

How to Apply at Ferris State University

The application process for international students is the same as for domestic students. Additional requirements are there for fresh and transfer undergraduate and graduate students.

Fresh Undergraduate/Graduate International Admissions

  • Application: You can apply through the Online Application from their official website.
  • The application fee is $30 (non-refundable) for international students.
  • Required Materials: In addition to the application, applicants must submit the following:
    • Official transcripts from all schools/colleges/universities attended.
    • Entrance exam scores: SAT/ACT (for undergraduates), GRE/GMAT (Required for graduate and PhD students)
    • English proficiency test scores like Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, or Duolingo
    • Personal statement/Essay writing
    • Two letters of teacher recommendation
    • Proof of Funds (Financial Aid Statement of Intent)

Transfer Students Undergraduate/Graduate International Admissions

  • Application: You can apply through the Online Application on their official website.
  • The application fee is $30 (non-refundable) for international students.
  • Required Materials: In addition to the application, applicants must submit the following:
    • Official transcripts from all schools/colleges/universities attended.
    • Entrance exam scores: SAT/ACT (for undergraduates), GRE/GMAT (Required for graduate and PhD students)
    • English proficiency test scores like Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, or Duolingo
    • Personal statement/essay writing
    • Transfer Report Form
    • Letter of recommendation
    • Proof of Funds (Financial documentation)

Documents Required to Apply to Ferris State University

Undergraduate Students

  • Complete the Common Application from their official website
  • Official transcripts from all previous your high school attended
  • SAT/ACT scores
  • Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, or PTE English Test scores.
  • Personal statement/Essay writing
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Proof of Funds (Financial documentation)
  • Additional Documents:
    • Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student (F-1) Status
    • I-20 Form 
    • Passport
    • Visa Sponsorship Letter

Graduate Students/PhD or Scholar Students

  • Complete the Common Application from their official website
  • Official transcripts from all previous from your high school or college attended
  • GRE/GMAT scores 
  • Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, or PTE English Test scores.
  • Personal statement
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Relevant work experience
  • Additional Documents:
    • Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student (F-1) Status
    • I-20 Form
    • Passport
    • Visa Sponsorship Letter

All documents must be in English or have an official English translation

Exams Accepted By Ferris State University

Undergraduate Students

  • Entrance Tests: SAT/ACT exam.
  • English Proficiency Tests: Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores.

Graduate Students/Ph.D. Students

  • Entrance Tests: GRE/GMAT exam
  • English Proficiency Tests: Internet-Based TOEFL (iBT), IELTS, or Duolingo English Test scores.
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Rankings for The Ferris State University

US News Ranking

#329

US News National rank

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Students Ferris State University

71

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International Students

% of international students in the university

1.2

Total International Students in the university

135

Alumni at Ferris State University

  • Chris Kunitz: Former professional ice hockey player who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for 17 seasons. He won two Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2009 and 2016.
  • Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick: Former U.S. Representative for Michigan's 13th congressional district. She was the first African-American woman to represent Michigan in Congress.
  • Veni John Raval: Former Chief of Staff to the U.S. Secretary of Energy. He is a nuclear engineer who has worked in the energy industry for over 30 years.
  • Dana King: Former news anchor for CBS Detroit. She is a veteran journalist who has covered news in Michigan for over 30 years.
  • Jeff Kellogg: Retired Major League Baseball umpire. He umpired in the MLB for over 20 years and worked in the World Series, the All-Star Game, and the playoffs.
  • Stacy Erwin Oakes: Former State Representative for Michigan's 95th district. She is a lawyer who has worked in the public sector for over 20 years.

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Related Discussion for the Universities

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preet patel
Preet Patel

5 days ago

Looking for groups at FSU for Spring 2025.
Interested in discussing accommodations, networking plans, and more!
LikeCount 1 Like
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hrk singh
Hrk Singh

20 days ago

Is spantran evaluation necessary for FSU
#masters
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Manoj kumar M
Manoj kumar M

3 months ago

FLORIDA STATE UNIVERSITY FALL 2025
Hi, Has anyone planning to or applied to Florida State University for Fall 2025, Kindly ping me if anyone is here. #fsu #fsuit #floroda #fall2025 #InformationTechnology
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Khushi Singh
Khushi Singh

a year ago

For FSU is GRE required, also is ot mandatory to submit Spantran Evaluation for application.
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Reviews for Ferris State University

Campus life

Number of campuses the university has
1

Campus locations
Michigan

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Transportation in the city

  • DART Campus Shuttle: The DART Campus Shuttle is a free shuttle service on the Ferris State University campus. The shuttle runs on a loop, stopping at all significant campus buildings. The shuttle is a great way to get around campus if you need a car.
  • Rapid 100 Express Bus: The Rapid 100 Express Bus is a bus service between Big Rapids and Grand Rapids. The bus stops in Cedar Springs, so it's convenient to get to and from Grand Rapids if you need a car. The bus fare is $2.25 each way.
  • MOTA: MOTA is the Mecosta-Osceola Area Transit Authority. MOTA operates a bus service that serves Big Rapids and the surrounding area. The bus fare is $1.50 each way.
  • Walking and Biking: Big Rapids is a relatively small city, so getting around on foot or by bike is easy. Walking or biking is an excellent option if you're looking for a healthy and environmentally friendly way to get around.
  • Taxis and Ride-hailing Services: Taxis and ride-hailing services are available in Big Rapids. However, these services can be expensive, so they're best used for short trips or when you need to get somewhere quickly.

Services offered by the university

  • Academic advising: Ferris State University offers academic advising to all students, from freshmen to graduate students. Academic advisors can help students choose suitable courses, plan their academic paths, and achieve their academic goals.
  • Career counselling: Ferris State University offers career counselling to students, helping them explore their career options, develop their resumes, and prepare for job interviews.
  • Financial aid: Ferris State University offers financial aid to students who need help paying for college. Financial aid can come from grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs.
  • Health services: Ferris State University offers students, faculty, and staff health services. These services include primary care, mental health services, and health education.
  • Student life: Ferris State University offers a variety of student life activities, including clubs, organisations, sports, and events. These activities help students get involved on campus and make friends.
  • Technology services: Ferris State University offers technology services to students, faculty, and staff. These services include computer labs, printing services, and wireless internet access.

Student life at Ferris State University

  • Clubs and organisations: There are over 200 clubs and organisations on campus, covering a wide range of interests, from academic to social to recreational.
  • Intramural sports: There are over 20 intramural sports offered on campus, including basketball, flag football, soccer, and volleyball.
  • Club sports: There are over 20 club sports offered on campus, including rugby, lacrosse, and ultimate frisbee.
  • Greek life: There are 10 fraternities and sororities on campus.
  • Student organisations: There are over 100 student organisations on campus, covering various interests, from political to religious to cultural.
  • Cultural events: Ferris State University hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, plays, and art exhibits.
  • Volunteer opportunities: There are many opportunities for students to volunteer in the community through the university's Center for Community Engagement.
  • Internships: Ferris State University has a strong program that helps students gain valuable experience in their field.

On campus accomodation at Ferris State University

  • Residence halls: Residence halls are the most common type of on-campus housing at Ferris State University. They offer a variety of room types, including double rooms, single rooms, and suites. Residence halls also offer a variety of amenities, such as laundry facilities, study lounges, and dining halls.
  • Apartments: Apartments are another option for on-campus housing at Ferris State University. They offer more privacy and space than residence halls and often come with kitchenettes. Apartments are also located in various areas on campus, so students can choose an apartment close to their classes or other activities.
  • Family housing: Ferris State University also offers family housing for students with families. Family housing is located in a separate area of campus, and it offers a variety of amenities, such as playgrounds, laundry facilities, and community centres.

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