University of Michigan: Acceptance Rate and Your Chances
Updated June 2026 · CollegeCalcAI
| Acceptance rate | 18% |
| SAT (75th percentile) | 1520 |
| ACT (75th percentile) | 35 |
| Location | MI |
| School type | Public |
The University of Michigan is a large public research university in Ann Arbor and one of the most well-regarded public schools in the country. It accepts roughly 18% of applicants, a rate that is especially competitive given the size of its applicant pool. Out-of-state students face lower admission odds than Michigan residents.
Calculate your chances at University of Michigan free →How hard is it to get into the University of Michigan?
An 18% acceptance rate is impressive for a school that receives tens of thousands of applications each year. Michigan is genuinely hard to get into, both for in-state and out-of-state applicants, though residents from Michigan do benefit from a modest advantage in some programs.
Certain schools within Michigan, like the College of Engineering or Ross School of Business, are even more selective than the overall rate suggests. If you are applying to a specific program, research that program's typical acceptance numbers as well.
Test scores that make you competitive
Admitted students at the 75th percentile scored around 1520 on the SAT and 35 on the ACT. Those are high marks. Michigan has offered test-optional policies in recent years, but strong scores remain an asset, particularly for competitive programs. If your scores are near or above those benchmarks, they add real strength to your application.
What the University of Michigan looks for
Michigan takes holistic admissions seriously. Your course rigor, grades, and upward trends in your transcript all matter. But the school is also looking for students who bring something distinct. That could mean leadership in your community, original creative or research work, or a perspective shaped by unusual experiences.
The essays at Michigan are specific and personal. The school asks questions designed to reveal who you are beyond your transcript. Bland or generic answers do not stand out in a pool this competitive. Students who write clearly about what actually matters to them tend to do better.
Estimate your chances at the University of Michigan
For a free, personalized estimate of your chances at Michigan, try the CollegeCalcAI calculator at collegecalcai.com. You enter your GPA, test scores, and activities, and it gives you an honest read on your odds right away.
Frequently asked questions
What is the University of Michigan's acceptance rate?
The University of Michigan accepts approximately 18% of applicants, making it one of the most selective public universities in the country.
What SAT or ACT score do I need for the University of Michigan?
The 75th-percentile SAT for admitted students is around 1520, with a 35 ACT. Scores in that range are competitive, though Michigan has test-optional options.
Is the University of Michigan hard to get into?
Yes. An 18% acceptance rate, combined with a very large applicant pool, makes Michigan genuinely difficult to get into. Competition is especially intense for programs like engineering and business.
See your real odds at University of Michigan
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Sources: U.S. Department of Education (IPEDS), NCES, and publicly reported Common Data Sets. Acceptance rate and score figures are rounded and reflect recent admissions cycles. How we calculate chances.