University of Michigan vs University of Virginia

University of Michigan is the more selective of the two at 18%, versus 19% at University of Virginia. Here is how they compare on selectivity, test scores, and what they weigh, plus a free way to estimate your odds at each.

University of Michigan
Highly selective
18%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1520
Public · Michigan
University of Virginia
Highly selective
19%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1510
Public · Virginia

University of Michigan vs University of Virginia: the differences that matter

How University of Michigan and University of Virginia stack up on selectivity, scores, and what they value.

University of Michigan and University of Virginia are almost equally selective (18% vs 19%), so neither is a clear safety relative to the other. Your odds at each come down to fit, not headline difficulty.

The two also read applications a little differently. University of Michigan leans more on class rank, standardized test scores, while University of Virginia puts more weight on extracurricular activities, talent / ability, character / personal qualities. The same profile can land differently at each, which is why a per-school estimate matters more than a single GPA.

On test scores, University of Michigan's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1520 and University of Virginia's is around 1510. Admitted students at University of Michigan post somewhat higher scores. Run your own numbers below to see where you stand at each.

What each school weighs

Factors either school weighs heavily, side by side.

FactorUniversity of MichiganUniversity of Virginia
Rigor of secondary school recordvery importantvery important
Academic GPAvery importantvery important
Class rankimportantconsidered
Standardized test scoresvery importantimportant
Application essayimportantimportant
Recommendationsimportantimportant
Extracurricular activitiesconsideredimportant
Talent / abilityconsideredimportant
Calculate your chances at both →

Frequently asked questions

Is University of Michigan or University of Virginia harder to get into?

University of Michigan is harder to get into, with a 18% acceptance rate versus 19% at University of Virginia.

What's the difference in SAT scores between University of Michigan and University of Virginia?

University of Michigan's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1520, and University of Virginia's is around 1510.

What are my chances at University of Michigan and University of Virginia?

That depends on your full profile. CollegeCalcAI gives a free, personalized estimate for each school in a few minutes.