How to Get Into the University of Michigan: Admission Stats + Tips
The University of Michigan is a public research university located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It’s consistently ranked among the best universities in the nation and is commonly thought of as one of the “Public Ivies” for its academic excellence, competitive admissions, and abundant resources. Keep reading to learn about the average academic profile of accepted students, what the admissions committee looks for, how you can improve your chances of acceptance, and what you’ll need to apply to the University of Michigan. Getting accepted into the University of Michigan is challenging, but it is doable. In the 2024-2025 admissions cycle, only 16% of applicants were admitted. Out of 98,310 who applied, only 15,373 were accepted. Since the University of Michigan is selective, it’s important to have a strong application ready when you apply. While the University of Michigan’s acceptance rate is low, your personal chances of acceptance may be higher or lower depending on the strength of your academic profile. To gain an understanding of your chances of acceptance at the University of Michigan, use our free admissions calculator. This tool uses your grades, test scores, extracurriculars, and more to estimate your odds of acceptance and top schools, like the University of Michigan. Plus, it will provide insight into how you can improve your profile! The average high school GPA of the first-time first-year students enrolling at the University of Michigan during the 2024-2025 admissions cycle was 3.9. The percentage of students with a 4.0 GPA is approximately 39%. The middle 50% SAT scores for students enrolling in 2024–2025 ranged from 1360 to 1530. The middle 50% for ACT scores were 31-34. The University of Michigan practices test-optional admissions, meaning students aren’t required to submit standardized test scores. That said, during the 2024-2025 admissions cycle, 51% of students submitted SAT scores, while 18% of students submitted ACT scores. Since the University of Michigan is a top-rated school, most candidates are highly qualified. Although your amazing grades and high standardized test scores are incredibly important, they aren’t enough to boost your application to the top. Instead, focus on what makes you stand out as a dynamic individual. Your unique combination of talents, interests, passions, and skills will all help you succeed. Additionally, the University of Michigan will consider your participation in extracurricular activities, professional arts training, leadership positions, and service opportunities. According to their 2024-2025 Common Data Set, the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, considers the following factors “very important”: These factors are “important”: These are “considered”: And these are “not considered”: Although interviews are not considered for most applicants, students applying to music, theatre, and dance may be interviewed.
[amp-cta id="9459"] The average high school GPA of first-time first-year students in the 2024-2025 academic year at the University of Michigan was 3.9. The percentage of students with a 4.0 GPA was roughly 39%. It’s important to keep these metrics in mind as you think about applying to the University of Michigan. Academic Index calculates a student’s overall academic performance into a numerical score. Selective universities like the University of Michigan use this tool to determine whether applicants possess the academic credentials necessary for consideration. It’s essential to have a competitive transcript to meet the University of Michigan’s Academic Index threshold. Students applying to selective schools should not only get all A’s, but they should also take the most challenging courses available to them. If your GPA is low, and you’re earlier on in your high school career, there’s still time to increase your GPA. If you’re a junior or senior, it’s more difficult to increase your GPA, so the easiest way to improve your Academic Index is to get a high test score. The middle 50% SAT scores for students enrolling at the University of Michigan in 2024-2025 were 1360-1530, and the middle 50% for ACT scores was 31-34. 51% of students submitted SAT scores, while 18% submitted ACT scores. Typically, students who submit standardized test scores are more likely to gain admission than students who don’t submit scores. We recommend submitting your test scores if they’re at or above the 25th percentile of accepted students at that school. Students can get recommendations on whether or not they should apply test-optional using our free Chancing Engine. To improve your SAT/ACT score, check out these free CollegeVine resources: If you’re still a freshman or sophomore, try to challenge yourself by taking as many rigorous, upper-level classes as possible, since the University of Michigan values your course rigor as “very important.” Consider taking honors classes and AP courses that you can excel in to give your application (and GPA) a boost. It’s especially helpful to take courses in high school that align with your future major. So, if you’re planning to major in the medical field, focus on taking upper-level science classes, like physics and human anatomy and physiology, and challenging math classes, like calculus. Once you’ve proven your GPA and standardized test scores clear the university’s requirements, essays are one of the best ways for you to set yourself apart from other applicants. The university requires students to complete the Common Application personal essay and respond to two supplemental prompts. Your essays are a chance to share your personality and demonstrate your alignment with the school’s values. The University of Michigan considers letters of recommendation an important part of the admissions process. Following the rules for requesting a recommendation can help you choose the right recommender, give them ample time to write a thoughtful letter, and properly thank them for their support. The University of Michigan offers three application timelines: Early Decision, Early Action, and Regular Decision. Fall 2026 will mark the first time the University offers Early Decision (ED); consequently, there is no historical data on ED acceptance rates. However, students applying through ED are generally admitted at higher rates than those applying via other timelines. The downside of applying Early Decision (ED) is that it’s binding—if accepted, you are committed to attending the university. Early Action (EA), on the other hand, offers some of the admissions advantages without the binding commitment, allowing you to compare financial aid offers from other schools before deciding where to enroll. Application Timeline Application Deadline Notification Date Early Decision November 1 By December 24 Early Action November 1 By January 30 Regular Decision February 1 By April 3 Students can apply using the Common Application or the Questbridge Application. You’ll also need the following: The following materials are optional:
What’s Covered:
How Hard Is It to Get Into the University of Michigan?
Average Academic Profile of Accepted University of Michigan Students
GPA
SAT/ACT
What is the University of Michigan Looking for?
How the University of Michigan Evaluates Applications
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting into the University of Michigan
1. Achieve at least a 3.9 GPA while taking the most challenging classes available.
2. Aim for a 1530 SAT and 34 ACT.
3. Challenge yourself with rigorous courses.
4. Write engaging essays.
5. Request great letters of recommendation.
6. Apply early decision.
How to Apply to the University of Michigan
Deadlines
Application Requirements
Learn more about the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
