Overview
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is a highly selective public four-year institution in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The school accepts 17.7% of applicants and enrolls 33,488 students.
Admission Statistics
- Acceptance Rate
- 17.7%
- Average SAT
- 1,440
- SAT Range (25th–75th)
- 1,350–1,530
- ACT Composite (avg)
- 33
- Total Enrollment
- 33,488
Your Chances by SAT Score
Your score is above the 75th percentile. You are a competitive applicant.
Your score falls within the middle 50% of admitted students.
Your score is below the 25th percentile. Other parts of your application will need to stand out.
Admission Guide
Michigan's admissions officers spend more time reading essays than reviewing test scores because they want to understand how you think, not just how well you perform. Your supplement essays matter enormously here, especially the "Why Michigan" prompt where you must connect specific academic programs or research opportunities to your goals.
Apply directly to your intended school within the university during the application process. LSA (Literature, Science, and Arts) offers the most flexibility for undecided students, while Engineering, Business, and other specialized schools require separate consideration. Switching between schools after enrollment can be competitive, so choose carefully.
Reference Michigan's unique traditions and culture in your essays to show genuine interest. Mention "The Big House" if you're passionate about football, the Diag if you want to discuss campus community, or specific research labs if you're academically focused. Avoid generic statements about school spirit that could apply to any large state university.
Your essays should highlight intellectual risk-taking and leadership outside traditional roles. Michigan admits students who challenge themselves academically and create change in their communities, not just those with perfect grades. The admissions office wants to see how you'll contribute to campus discourse and research.
Don't assume Michigan is easier to get into because it's a public university. Out-of-state admission is extremely competitive, and even in-state students face rigorous review. The university maintains high standards across all applicant pools.
Submit your application as early as possible within the regular decision window. Michigan reviews applications as they arrive, and later submissions face increasingly limited spots. Early Action provides an advantage over regular decision timing.
Focus on how you'll use Michigan's resources rather than listing what the university can do for you. Discuss specific professors whose research interests you, particular courses you want to take, or student organizations you plan to join. Generic praise about campus beauty or academic reputation won't distinguish your application from thousands of others.
What It Costs If You Get In
- Average Net Price
- $14,832/yr
- Tuition (in-state)
- $17,228
- Tuition (out-of-state)
- $58,072
- Students Receiving Aid
- 18%
After You Graduate
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 93.2%
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $83,648/yr
- Freshman Retention Rate
- 97.6%
Frequently Asked Questions
Does University of Michigan-Ann Arbor have early decision or early action?
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor offers Early Action with a November 1 deadline. The program is non-binding, meaning you can apply to other schools and don't have to commit if accepted.
What are the application deadlines for University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
Early Action applications are due November 1, and Regular Decision applications are due February 1. Students applying for certain programs like art, music, or theatre may have earlier portfolio or audition deadlines.
Is University of Michigan-Ann Arbor test-optional?
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor requires SAT or ACT scores for most applicants. Test scores are only optional for students who meet specific criteria related to testing access or other exceptional circumstances.
How hard is it to transfer to University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
Transfer admission to University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is competitive, with the university typically accepting around 40% of transfer applicants. Students need a strong college GPA and typically complete prerequisite courses for their intended major.