Grand Valley State University
Grand Valley
Allendale, Michigan 49401-9403
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for business — excellent value
Grand Valley State University is a public institution in Allendale with particular strength in business and health sciences. With an average SAT of 1079, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A large campus of 19.1K undergraduates with a 15:1 student-faculty ratio. The town location creates a classic college-town feel.
69% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $56,118 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $17,096.
Rankings
More About This School
History & Fun Facts
- •History University presidents President Years James Zumberge 1962–1969 Arend Lubbers 1969–2001 Mark Murray 2001–2006 Thomas J.
- •In the following year the Michigan Legislature established the college.
- •In 1961, the Grand Valley State College Board of Control chose a 876-acre (3.
- •The middle-late 1960s saw the addition of the first dormitories and construction of new academic buildings, including the Zumberge Library, named for the university's first president, James Zumberge.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1079
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
51.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
4.0%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$19,500
Programs (148)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
77%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
126
Peer Average
92
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
24/7 campus police department, blue-light phone network, emergency mass notification system
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from MI state average