How to Get into the University of Michigan: Admission Requirements and Tips

So, you’re thinking about how to get into the University of Michigan? Fantastic choice! It’s ranked #3 among top public schools in the nation, and for good reason. The University of Michigan offers a wide range of academic programs, a dynamic campus, and countless opportunities for hands-on experiences.

But here’s the thing: getting in isn’t easy. For the Class of 2028, the University of Michigan had an acceptance rate of just 15.6%. This means you’ll need more than just solid grades to set yourself apart.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about how to get into the University of Michigan, from GPA requirements and SAT/ACT scores to tips on making your application stand out. Let’s get started!

• How Hard Is It to Get into the University of Michigan?
• University of Michigan Admission Requirements
• University of Michigan GPA Requirements
• University of Michigan SAT Requirements
• University of Michigan ACT Requirements
• How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into the University of Michigan
• University of Michigan Application Deadlines
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

How Hard Is It to Get into the University of Michigan?

For the Class of 2028, the University of Michigan received 98,310 applications and admitted only 15,373 students, leading to an acceptance rate of 15.6%. As you can imagine, it’s a competitive process.

Curious how the University of MIchigan’s acceptance rate has changed over the past few years? Here’s a quick look:

As you can see, the acceptance rate has steadily decreased over the past few years. The largest drop happened between the Class of 2024 and Class of 2026, where the rate went from 26.1% to 17.7%.

Each year, more students are vying for fewer spots, making it more important than ever to put your best foot forward. If you’re hoping to make it in, focus on submitting an application that highlights what makes you unique and shows the admissions team you understand how to get into the University of Michigan.

University of Michigan Admission Requirements

The University of Michigan looks for students who are ready to take on challenges and make an impact. The admissions team evaluates applications holistically, meaning they consider more than just numbers.

Here’s what you’ll need to know about the application process:

• High school transcript. The University of Michigan wants to see how you’ve done in high school. Make sure your transcript includes all your grades and courses, including any advanced ones like AP or IB.
• School report. Your high school will submit this. This will give the University of Michigan a snapshot of your academic performance and the rigor of your coursework.
• One teacher evaluation. You’ll need a letter from a teacher who can speak to your academic abilities, work ethic, and potential. Pick someone who knows you well and can write a personal, strong recommendation.
• Standardized test scores (optional). The University of Michigan is test-optional. If you think your SAT or ACT scores add value to your application, feel free to submit them. If not, no problem—they’ll review your application without them.
• University of Michigan-specific essays. These are required for all applicants. There are two school-specific essays you’ll need to respond to.
• Common Application personal statement. This 650-word essay is your opportunity to show who you are beyond your grades. Talk about your personal experiences, what drives you, and why you’re excited about joining the University of Michigan.

The most important factors in the University of Michigan admissions process include the rigor of your high school coursework, your GPA, recommendation letters, and your application essays. These elements carry the most weight when you’re learning how to get into the University of Michigan and trying to stand out as a strong candidate.

Beyond academics, the University of Michigan also highly values extracurricular activities, talents, character, personal qualities, first-generation status. They want students who are not only strong in the classroom but also engaged in their communities and passionate about their interests.

Work experience and volunteer work are also considered factors in the admissions process. While these factors may not weigh as heavily as academic factors, they can definitely help strengthen your application and showcase what makes you one of a kind.

On the other hand, alumni relations, religious affiliation, and class rank are not considered at all, meaning they will have no impact on your chances of getting in.

Ultimately, the University of Michigan is looking for students who are academically driven, intellectually curious, and eager to contribute to the university community. Understanding how to get into the University of Michigan means knowing that a strong application will highlight both your academic achievements and the personal qualities that set you apart.

High school coursework recommendations

When the University of Michigan looks at your high school transcript, they want to see that you’ve taken a solid, well-rounded combination of classes. You don’t have to follow a strict list, but to stay competitive, it’s best to aim for this recommended coursework:

• 4 units of English
• 3-4 units of Mathematics
• 3-4 units of Science (including 1 unit of lab)
• 2-4 units of Foreign Language
• 1 unit of Social Studies
• 3 units of History
• 1 recommended unit of Computer Science
• 2 recommended units of Visual/Performing Arts

This adds up to at least 16 required units and 23+ recommended units. If you want to stand out, taking more advanced classes like AP, IB, honors, accelerated, or enriched courses is a great way to show you’re challenging yourself.

University of Michigan GPA Requirements

The University of Michigan doesn’t have a strict GPA cutoff for admission, but with so many applicants, having a strong GPA will definitely give you a competitive edge. Maintaining high grades is a smart move if you’re serious about how to get into the University of Michigan.

University of Michigan average GPA

According to the University of Michigan’s Common Data Set for 2024-2025, the average GPA of admitted students is 3.9. Here’s how GPAs break down among enrolled students:

• 68% had a 4.0 GPA
• 24% had a GPA between 3.75 and 3.99
• 6% had a GPA between 3.50 and 3.74
• Only 2% had a GPA below 3.5

Class rank is not considered at all in the admissions process, so there’s no need to worry about that. The University of Michigan takes a holistic approach to admissions, meaning they look at more than just your GPA. They also consider extracurricular activities, leadership, recommendation letters, and your essays.

If your GPA isn’t as high as you’d like, don’t stress. The University of Michigan looks at the whole picture, and excelling in other areas can still make a big difference in your application.

University of Michigan SAT Requirements

The University of Michigan is test-optional, so submitting SAT scores is entirely up to you. However, if you choose to submit them, your scores should be strong to stay competitive. High SAT scores can help demonstrate your academic readiness and may strengthen your application.

UMich average SAT

According to the University of Michigan’s latest Common Data Set, here are the typical SAT scores for admitted students:

Here’s a breakdown of section scores:

Most admitted students score highly on the SAT. In fact, 70.2% of students have composite scores between 1400 and 1600, which is something to keep in mind when thinking about how to get into the University of Michigan.

Looking at section scores:

• 96% of students scored between 700 and 800 in SAT EBRW.
• 98% of students scored between 700 and 800 in SAT Math.

To stay competitive, aim for a 1530 or higher, with strong scores in both Math and EBRW. A score in this range shows that you are well-prepared for the University of Michigan’s rigorous academics.

That said, don’t stress if your scores aren’t perfect. The University of Michigan evaluates applications holistically, so your coursework, extracurriculars, essays, and recommendation letters all play an important role. If your SAT scores are close but not quite there, consider retaking the test to boost your chances.

Does UMich require the SAT?

The University of Michigan is test-optional, so you get to decide whether or not to send in your SAT scores. If you’ve got strong scores, submitting them can help give your application a bit of a lift. But if your scores aren’t exactly where you’d like them to be, leaving them out won’t hurt your chances.

When it comes to admissions, the University of Michigan looks at more than just your test scores. They take a holistic approach, so they will also look at your grades, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendation letters. The University of Michigan wants to know who you are as a person and how you’ll fit into their community.

University of Michigan ACT Requirements

The University of Michigan doesn’t require the ACT, but if you decide to submit your scores, they should be strong to help strengthen your application. Choosing whether to submit scores is part of understanding how to get into the University of Michigan.

UMich average ACT

Here’s a look at the ACT scores for admitted students, based on the University of Michigan’s latest Common Data Set:

As for the subject breakdown:

Most admitted students score 30 or higher on the ACT. In fact, 90.8% of students scored between 30 and 36, with just a small percentage scoring between 24 and 29.

Looking at section scores:

• 90.4% of students scored between 30 and 36 in ACT English.
• 77.8% of students scored between 30 and 36 in ACT Math.

To stay competitive, aim for a 35 or higher. But if your score is a bit lower, don’t worry. The University of Michigan takes a holistic approach to admissions. They look at everything from your grades to your extracurriculars, essays, and recommendation letters, so you can still stand out in other ways.

Does the University of Michigan prefer the ACT or SAT?

The University of Michigan doesn’t play favorites when it comes to the SAT or ACT. Whether you take one or the other, both are treated equally. It’s totally up to you whether to submit scores, or not submit them at all, since the University of Michigan is test-optional.

Looking at the data, 51% of students submitted SAT scores, while 18% submitted ACT scores. That shows that a lot of applicants either didn’t submit their test scores or decided to focus on other parts of their application. The University of Michigan is all about the bigger picture and values what you bring to the table beyond just your test results.

Here’s the good news: the University of Michigan superscores both tests. This means they’ll take your best section scores from multiple test dates and use them to give you the highest possible composite score. So if you’ve taken the SAT or ACT more than once, you can benefit from this approach. If you choose to submit your scores, just make sure to send your best ones.

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting into the University of Michigan

Getting into the University of Michigan can be competitive, but don’t worry! A strong application can help you stand out. Understanding how to get into the University of Michigan starts with knowing what really matters:

1. Keep your GPA solid.

Your GPA plays a big role in the University of Michigan’s admissions process. To stay competitive, aim for a GPA around the average or higher. The average GPA for admitted students is 3.9. Taking challenging courses like AP, IB, or honors classes will help show you’re prepared for Michigan’s tough academics.

If your grades haven’t always been perfect, it’s not the end of the world. The University of Michigan values growth, so if you’ve shown improvement in your grades, be sure to mention that in your application.

If you’re struggling in any classes, getting extra help—whether it’s through tutoring, study groups, or asking for more guidance—shows your commitment to success.

2. Submit SAT/ACT scores if they help your case.

Since the University of Michigan is test-optional, whether or not to submit your SAT or ACT scores is completely up to you. If your scores are strong, though, submitting them can definitely help.

For reference, the middle 50% of admitted students had SAT scores between 1460 and 1530, and ACT scores between 33 and 35. To be competitive, aim for a 75th percentile score or higher—that’s 1530+ SAT or 35 ACT.

If your scores are below those ranges, it’s okay! The University of Michigan takes a holistic approach, so focus on your strengths in other areas, like your extracurriculars, essays, and recommendation letters.

And if you’re not happy with your scores, you can always retake the test to improve your chances. If you need a little extra help, you can use practice tests or work with a private tutor to boost your performance.

The University of Michigan superscores both the SAT and ACT, meaning they’ll use your best section scores from different test dates to give you the highest possible composite score. This approach can really work in your favor once you know how to get into the University of Michigan.

3. Let your essays show who you are.

For your application, you’ll need to submit a personal statement. You can choose a prompt from the Common Application or the Coalition Application. Plus, the University of Michigan requires two school-specific essays.

Here are the required UMich supplemental essay prompts:

• Everyone belongs to many different communities and/or groups defined by (among other things) shared geography, religion, ethnicity, income, cuisine, interest, race, ideology, or intellectual heritage. Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it. (100 to 300 words)
• Describe the unique qualities that attract you to the specific undergraduate College or School (including preferred admission and dual degree programs) to which you are applying at the University of Michigan. How would that curriculum support your interests? (100 to 550 words)

How to write a killer essay:

• Start with a hook. Admissions officers read hundreds of essays, so grab their attention right from the start. Open with something unique like a thought-provoking question, an interesting anecdote, or a compelling story.
• Show, don’t just tell. Instead of just saying “I’m a hard worker,” give specific examples of moments when those qualities really stood out. For instance, in the first prompt, you can highlight a time when being part of your community helped you learn something new or led you to make a positive change.
• Keep it focused. With the word limit, you don’t have space to cover everything. Pick one thing that’s important to you, like a challenge you’ve overcome or something that shaped who you are.
• Be yourself. Admissions officers want to get to know the real you. This is your chance to show off your personality, so don’t try to sound overly formal. Use your natural voice and let your authentic self come through. This isn’t a research paper—this is about who you are and why you’re a great fit for the University of Michigan.
• Revise, revise, revise. Once you have your draft, don’t submit it right away. Take the time to revise it. Ask a teacher, friend, or mentor to read through it and give you feedback. Look for places where you can make your points clearer, catch any awkward phrasing, or improve your grammar. A little extra polishing can make a big difference!

Remember, your essays are your chance to share what makes you unique and why you’re excited about what the University of Michigan offers. Be genuine, and use this opportunity to really let your personality shine through.

Need more help with your personal statement and UMich supplemental essays? Check out our go-to guide on UMich’s essays!

4. Show off your extracurriculars.

The University of Michigan is all about students who go above and beyond inside the classroom. They want to see how you’ve used your time outside of school and what you’ve done to make an impact. This kind of initiative is key to understanding how to get into the University of Michigan. Here’s what to consider:

• Leadership and student government roles. If you’ve taken the lead in clubs or student government, be sure to highlight your efforts. Whether you started a new club, organized a school event, or worked to improve your school, those are key experiences to mention. Consider programs like The National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC) or Michigan Youth Leadership (MYLead) that give you leadership opportunities.
• Community service and advocacy. Getting involved in your community shows that you care. If you’ve volunteered at a shelter, worked for social causes, or organized service events, make sure to share it. Programs like Habitat for Humanity or local youth service organizations like United Way are all great examples that show your commitment to making a difference.
• Research and STEM activities. Are you a science or tech enthusiast? Have you worked on a research project, built a science project, or participated in STEM competitions? Programs like Science Olympiad, FIRST Robotics, or Intel Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) can help you showcase your skills and interest in research and innovation.
• The arts—performing or visual. Whether you’re into music, acting, dancing, or creating art, the University of Michigan wants to know how you’ve dedicated yourself to these passions. Did you perform in the school play? Participate in art competitions or local music festivals? Programs like The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards or NAfME All-National Honor Ensembles (ANHE) can demonstrate your artistic commitment.
• Entrepreneurship and innovation. If you’ve started a business or been part of a startup initiative, definitely highlight it! Whether it was a small business idea or a school-based project, show how you turned your ideas into action. Programs like Junior Achievement or LaunchX provide platforms for young entrepreneurs to showcase their skills.
• Sports and athletics. Whether you’ve played sports competitively, coached, or even participated recreationally, athletics teaches you valuable life lessons. If you’ve been part of competitive leagues or sports camps, mention them. Programs like AAU basketball, Nike EYBL, or US Youth Soccer ODP show dedication, teamwork, and leadership.
• Cultural and diversity initiatives. Getting involved in programs or initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion shows you care about making the world a better place. Whether it’s working on cultural events at school, advocating for social justice, or joining cultural clubs, these activities can highlight your commitment to inclusivity.

The University of Michigan values students who make a real impact. When you’re listing your extracurriculars, focus on the projects you’ve led, the changes you’ve made, and how you’ve gone beyond just participating. They want to know what you’ve done to contribute and how it’s shaped you.

5. Secure strong recommendation letters.

The University of Michigan requires one recommendation letter from a teacher as part of your application. The letter should help give insight into who you are beyond your grades and scores. This letter should highlight your work ethic, leadership abilities, and character.

Tips for strong recommendation letters:

• Choose a teacher who knows you well. Pick a teacher who has seen you grow academically or take on challenges. They should be able to provide specific examples that highlight your strengths. A letter from someone who has worked with you closely is far more effective than one from a teacher who doesn’t know you as well.
• Give them enough time. Teachers are busy, so give them plenty of notice. Asking for a letter at least a month before your deadline makes sure they can put in the time needed to write a detailed and thoughtful recommendation.
• Provide specific details. Don’t assume the teacher knows all your achievements. Share a list of your accomplishments, projects, leadership roles, and anything else that stands out. The more they know, the more personal and compelling your letter will be.
• Show your appreciation. A simple thank-you note or small gesture of gratitude goes a long way. It will help promote a stronger relationship with your recommenders and make sure they feel valued for their time and effort.

Remember, while the University of Michigan allows you to submit additional recommendation letters (such as one from a coach, employer, or mentor), only one teacher letter is required, and you should not submit more than two. Choosing wisely is part of knowing how to get into the University of Michigan and making every part of your application count.

University of Michigan Application Deadlines

Keeping track of deadlines can make the whole application process feel a lot easier. Whether you’re applying Early Action (EA) or Regular Decision (RD), knowing these key dates will help you avoid last-minute stress and give you time to put your best foot forward. Here’s the breakdown:

Jot down these dates, set up reminders, and give yourself time to craft a solid application. The more organized you are, the smoother the process will go! Staying on top of deadlines is a simple but important step in how to get into the University of Michigan.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get into the University of Michigan with low test scores?

Yes! The University of Michigan is test-optional, so you don’t have to submit SAT or ACT scores if you feel your standardized test scores aren’t the strongest part of your application. Instead, focus on areas like your GPA, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendation letters.

However, if you do decide to submit scores, aim for at least a 1530+ on the SAT or a 34+ on the ACT to stay competitive. If your scores are lower than you’d like, consider retaking the test to boost your chances.

2. What GPA do I need to get into the University of Michigan?

The University of Michigan does not have an official minimum GPA requirement, but for the most competitive applicants, a GPA closer to or above the average of 3.9 will be beneficial. Most admitted students have a strong academic record and they have taken challenging courses such as AP, IB, or honors classes.

If your GPA is lower, don’t worry! UMich looks at applications holistically. Strong involvement in extracurriculars, leadership, and stellar recommendation letters can balance out your application.

3. What is the University of Michigan known for?

The University of Michigan is recognized for its top-notch programs in engineering, business, law, and healthcare. The College of Engineering is a leader in innovation, while the Ross School of Business is renowned for its global network. Michigan also excels in research, particularly in healthcare, technology, and sustainability, with multiple prominent research centers driving cutting-edge work.

4. Is the University of Michigan test-optional?

Yes! The University of Michigan follows a test-optional policy, meaning you can choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores. If you think your scores will strengthen your application, feel free to include them. But if testing isn’t your strength, leaving them out won’t hurt your chances. The university evaluates applications holistically, taking a look at your grades, essays, extracurriculars, and recommendation letters.

5. How much does it cost to attend University of Michigan?

For the 2024-2025 academic year, tuition at the University of Michigan is $17,736 per year for in-state students and approximately $60,946 for out-of-state students. When you include housing, meals, books, and personal expenses, the total cost of attendance ranges from about $36,932 to $80,142 annually.

The University of Michigan offers need-based financial aid and merit scholarships to help make higher education more accessible to all students.

Takeaways

Thinking about how to get into the University of Michigan? Here’s a quick summary of what you should keep in mind:

• With an acceptance rate of 15.6%, the University of Michigan is competitive. To stand out, showcase your intellectual curiosity, leadership skills, and how you’ve contributed to your community.
• Aim for a GPA that’s higher than the average (around a 3.9). While a solid GPA is important, challenging yourself with honors, AP, or IB courses will better demonstrate that you’re ready for the academic rigor of the University of Michigan.
• SAT and ACT scores are optional, but if you choose to submit them, strive for at least 1530 on the SAT or 34+ on the ACT to stay competitive.
• Your essays and extracurriculars are your chance to tell your unique story. What sets you apart? How have you grown? The University of Michigan values applicants who are not only high achievers but also engaged in their communities and bring diverse perspectives.
• Feeling overwhelmed by how to get into the University of Michigan? Working with a college admissions consultant can make things smoother. A strategic approach and a strong application will help you stand out to the University of Michigan’s admissions team.