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79.0%Acceptance
$14,190Tuition
9,916Students
62%Grad Rate (6-yr)
$55,874Earnings
#6 in MichiganPublic4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalResearch UniversityNCAA Division IStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

Overview

Central Michigan University is a less selective public four-year institution in Mount Pleasant, Michigan. The school accepts 79.0% of applicants and enrolls 9,916 students.

Admission Statistics

Acceptance Rate
79.0%
Average SAT
1,100
SAT Range (25th–75th)
980–1,220
ACT Composite (avg)
24
Total Enrollment
9,916

Your Chances by SAT Score

Strong Candidate
SAT above 1,220

Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.

Competitive
SAT 980–1,220

Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.

Reach School
SAT below 980

Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.

Admission Guide

Central Michigan University accepts applications through their online portal with a rolling admissions policy, though you should apply by May 1 for fall semester to secure housing and course registration priority. You need to submit your high school transcripts, but test scores are optional for most programs.

The College of Engineering and Technology requires separate application materials and maintains higher admission standards than the university overall. Nursing programs also have competitive admission with prerequisite coursework requirements and earlier deadlines. Check specific program requirements early since some majors like physical therapy and physician assistant studies have limited seats.

Submit your housing application immediately after admission acceptance since residence halls fill quickly. Mount Pleasant is a true college town with limited off-campus housing options, making on-campus living popular for all four years. New students must attend orientation sessions during summer, where you'll register for classes and complete placement testing.

The campus sits in central Michigan with harsh winters, so prepare for snow from November through March. CMU operates on a semester system with a winter break that extends into late January. Greek life influences campus social culture significantly, though it's not required for social connection.

Financial aid applications open in October for the following fall, and Michigan residents should complete the FAFSA early to maximize state grant opportunities. The university offers merit scholarships based on your application materials without requiring separate scholarship applications for most awards.

What It Costs If You Get In

Average Net Price
$16,041/yr
Tuition (in-state)
$14,190
Tuition (out-of-state)
$14,190
Students Receiving Aid
31%

View full cost breakdown →

After You Graduate

Graduation Rate (6-year)
61.8%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$55,874/yr
Freshman Retention Rate
73.7%

View full outcomes data →

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Central Michigan University require SAT or ACT scores for admission?

Central Michigan University has a test-optional admissions policy. Students can choose whether to submit SAT or ACT scores as part of their application.

What is the application deadline for Central Michigan University?

Central Michigan University operates on rolling admissions with no specific deadline. Applications are reviewed as they are received, so applying earlier is recommended for better housing and scholarship opportunities.

Does Central Michigan University offer early decision or early action?

Central Michigan University does not offer early decision or early action programs. The university uses rolling admissions throughout the application cycle.

What GPA do you need to get into Central Michigan University?

Central Michigan University does not publish a minimum GPA requirement. The university reviews applications based on overall academic performance, course rigor, and other factors beyond just GPA.