Founded in 1817, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. is a Public college. Located in Michigan, which is a city setting in Michigan, the campus itself is Urban. The campus is home to 28,983 full time undergraduate students, and 15,735 full time graduate students.
The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Academic calendar runs on a Trimester basis. In the school year the student to faculty ratio was 12:1. There are 3695 full time instructional teachers. Degrees awarded at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor include: Bachelor's Degree, Masters Degree, Post-master's certificate, Doctor's degree.
Quick Facts
Acceptance Rate
28%
Application Deadline
Application Fee
75
SAT Range
1310-1500
ACT Range
29-33
Admissions at U-M are considered More Selective, with ,272% of all applicants being admitted.
In the school year, of the students who applied to the school, only 12 of those who were admitted eventually ended up enrolling.
100% of incoming freshmen are in the top half of their high school class. 97% were in the top quarter, and 97% were in the top tenth. You can apply online.
STUDENT LIFE Reviews
We asked, and students answered these important questions about student life at University of Michigan-Ann Arbor.
2%
“We”re apathetic”
11%
“We know about current events and vote”
50%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
37%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
5%
“We save it for the classroom”
11%
“Sometimes, but not often”
53%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
31%
“All the time, including weekends”
1%
“I”m always terrified”
9%
“I only go out in groups”
48%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
42%
“I feel extremely safe”
2%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
9%
“We bought the gear”
89%
“We live for the big game”
2%
“It”s not really our thing”
13%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
59%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
26%
“We”re a very artistic group”
6%
“Haven”t met them”
10%
“Available in class”
69%
“They keep regular office hours”
15%
“They”re always available”
1%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
18%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
72%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
9%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
0%
“We”re not into drinking at all”
8%
“Maybe a little, but it”s not a big thing”
45%
“We only party on weekends”
47%
“There”s some drinking happening every night”
4%
“Never, we”re here to learn”
44%
“There might be people who do”
42%
“People are known to partake on weekends”
10%
“There”s a huge drug scene”
2%
“We”re apathetic”
11%
“We know about current events and vote”
50%
“We participate and encourage others to get involved”
37%
“There”s nothing we won”t protest”
5%
“We save it for the classroom”
11%
“Sometimes, but not often”
53%
“There”s usually intelligent conversation to be found”
31%
“All the time, including weekends”
1%
“I”m always terrified”
9%
“I only go out in groups”
48%
“I usually let someone know where I”m going”
42%
“I feel extremely safe”
2%
“We don”t play sports”
0%
“We play recreationally”
9%
“We bought the gear”
89%
“We live for the big game”
2%
“It”s not really our thing”
13%
“Occasinally we gallery crawl”
59%
“There are a variety of opportunities”
26%
“We”re a very artistic group”
6%
“Haven”t met them”
10%
“Available in class”
69%
“They keep regular office hours”
15%
“They”re always available”
1%
“No greek life, but other groups to join”
18%
“There is some involvement, but not a lot”
72%
“Plenty of people join a sorority or fraternity”
9%
“It”s everything. If you”re not greek, you”re a geek”
427 Students rated on-campus housing 3.6 stars. 14 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate off-campus housing?
373 Students rated off-campus housing 3.1 stars. 0 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus food?
441 Students rated campus food 3.5 stars. 14 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate campus facilities?
454 Students rated campus facilities 4.2 stars. 40 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate class size?
454 Students rated class size 3.8 stars. 23 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate school activities?
453 Students rated school activities 4.5 stars. 60 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate local services?
453 Students rated local services 3.9 stars. 34 % gave the school a 5.0.
How would you rate academics?
454 Students rated academics 4 stars. 42 % gave the school a 5.0.
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor REVIEWS
What's your overall opinion of University of Michigan-Ann Arbor?
161 Students rated University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Hope
Prospective04/30/2025
When I think of UMich I think of spirit and pride, it is undeniable that the vibe is peak,
Tara
Prospective04/30/2025
I’m drawn to the University of Michigan for its unmatched blend of academic rigor and spirited community. As someone passionate about biology and global health, I’m excited by opportunities like the Michigan Undergraduate Research Forum and the Program in Biology’s emphasis on hands-on learning. Michigan isn’t just a university; it’s a community I want to be a part of.
Eleadora
Prospective04/30/2025
The student work life balance at the University Michigan-Ann Arbor is incredible and inspired me to believe that I could succeed at the university. The appeal of the sports culture at UM is very high and is coupled with a fantastic education. The over 1,600 student organizations also drew me to the university. I have been accepted into the early assurance program for the college of pharmacy, and I am very drawn to this program as well!
Grace
Prospective04/29/2025
University of Michigan is well known for excellence in both academics and sports. I'm proud and excited to start my journey on this next phase of my life at the University of Michigan.
Xiang
Prospective04/29/2025
I like the course load and variety. Additionally, it has my preferred majors which are Business Administration and Biomedical Engineering. The orchestra and music features are interesting as well.
noor_
Prospective04/26/2025
The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is more than just my dream school, it’s the place where I finally felt seen. As a Muslim girl who wears the hijab, I often stand out more than I want to. But on my first visit to campus, surrounded by a vibrant mix of cultures, I didn’t feel like an outsider. For the first time, I imagined a college experience where my biggest worry wasn’t how I looked, it was what time to set my alarm for class.
When I received an invitation to the Arab Student Association’s Wolverine Day, it confirmed everything I had hoped for. The students welcomed me with warmth, pride, and a sense of belonging I had never experienced before. They looked like me, spoke like me, and understood the layers of my identity without needing an explanation. That day felt less like a campus visit and more like a family gathering filled with laughter, understanding, and hope.
The University of Michigan stands out not just because of its top-tier academics, but because of the community it fosters. It’s a place where I can grow unapologetically, academically, personally, and culturally. As the president of ASA said, "It’s the people who make the campus as beautiful as its iconic architecture."
Annika
04/26/2025
Personally, I think UMich is a great fit for many people. I believe that the social life at UMich is incredibly rich with diversity, opportunities to meet new people, and entertainment. The sports culture, many student-focused organizations, and campus activities are extremely welcoming. This social enrichment from football and other sports games, which are one of the cornerstones of UMich, among other activities, creates a cheerful atmosphere for all. I believe that these opportunities in both social and academic life would be incredibly beneficial to the college experience.
Marco
Prospective04/24/2025
I wish to attend U of M because I've heard great things about the community and the education standards and classes... Another reason why I would like to attend is because of their athletics and Culinary programs related to said athletic programs- such as the 2024 championship winning football team, which I respect greatly and know one of the players there.
James
College04/24/2025
This school provides a great balance between extracurricular opportunities and excellent academic status.
Lily
Prospective04/23/2025
I like how easy it is to follow an interdisciplinary education plan and explore different career options and interests, as well as finding ways to link the two together. Another reason I was drawn to the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is because regardless of what field or topic I choose to study, I know that I am guaranteed a high quality education.
Isaac
Prospective04/23/2025
My love for history is best captured by a quote attributed to Spanish-American philosopher George Santayana: “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” This idea drives my fascination for studying foreign relations, politics, law, and conflict. Understanding the history of foreign relations, especially with current tensions between the US and Russia, Iran, China, and North Korea, is paramount to securing our collective future. For these reasons, I want to pursue a career in public/foreign policy or law by way of studying history. U-M’s Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy and LSA’s History Department have many attractive programs and courses that suit my desire to better the world, making it the ideal place to pursue my goals.
I am excited by the opportunities provided at the Ford School, especially the Leadership Initiative. As the captain of my varsity and travel sports teams, I understand the vital role of strong leadership in achieving success. I love that the Ford School values and teaches leadership in an academic setting pertaining to policy-making. The Leadership Initiative can help me utilize my athletic leadership abilities and apply them to my academics and career. I also appreciate that the Ford School, as a junior and senior-level program, will allow me to pursue the full range of my academic interests before focusing on public policy.
Additionally, The Ford School Writing Center will support my interests in storytelling and policy-making. I was one of the tutors in my high school’s first-ever peer-led Writing Center, an experience that has shown me the value of a program like this.
Studying at LSA’s History Department will be essential to my academic journey. With 195 course offerings in the 2023-2024 academic year, the U-M History department cannot be matched in depth and breadth of expertise and opportunities. The US in the World Since 1945: Politics, Culture, and War in the American Century is just one class of many that investigate the exact topics of history in which I am most interested. U-M History alumnus Brad Meltzer inspires me to pursue involvement in the Michigan Journal of History. His historical nonfiction writing, like his novel, The Nazi Conspiracy, encouraged me to embark on my own explorations into areas of history about which I am passionate. I am working on two in-depth research papers about Project Underworld and Operation Paperclip; operations that delve into some of the moral gray areas of US history. Meltzer has shown me that there are a multitude of ways to engage in fascinating history through analytical writing, research, and storytelling.
I am eager to leverage the rich academic resources and leadership opportunities at U-M. From The History Department to the Ford School, the Big House, and Yost Arena, I am so excited that the Maize and Blue are in my future.
Natalia
Prospective04/23/2025
Having committed to the University of Michigan, I fell in love with the work-hard-play-hard vibe. It is a prestigious institution offering an unmatched level of academics. Therefore, though the classes seem challenging, doing well pays off and is rewarding. The student community looks so welcoming and is dedicated to their academic studies. I love the school spirit at this school. On the day of admission to the university, I saw many students wearing campus merch, proving how proud they were to attend. The nursing program is one of the best in the nation and offers modern technology simulation manikins. I adored the modern nursing building, and I am sure I will thrive as a nursing student there. Additionally, another primary reason I committed to the University of Michigan is the amount of aid they give me. This university has given me the most financial assistance compared to all my other schools. I think coming to this university is the best choice I have made, and I am excited for what the future here entails for me.
Meredith
Prospective04/22/2025
I love the athletic program. I have researched the Athletic Training Program in Michigan was in the top 5.
Geovanni
Prospective04/21/2025
After doing research on what the University of Michigan has to offer, specifically the LSA College and chemistry department, I really enjoyed hearing that UMich's chemistry program is competitive and has been ranked high in this field. Personally, my interests go beyond getting my bachelor's degree; I see myself doing multiple internships, lab reports, and one day, going into pharmacy school.
I'm really drawn to the chemistry department's access to multiple types of undergraduate research programs and internship opportunities that allow chemists to really show what they learned and apply it into the real world.
After looking at the curriculum for a bachelor's chemistry degree, I really loved seeing all the levels of chemistry classes offered at UMich and seeing all the different optional chemistry-related electives that are offered here. Programs such as, "Org. Chem of Drug Design" and "Biophysical Chemistry I" show how dedicated this department is to set up their chemist for success in the real world. As someone wanting to one day go into health care, these classes would prepare me for real world applications of the lessons taught in the classroom.
But aside from the academics, UMich's LSA chemistry department has a high reputation of inclusion and diversity; as well as being known for having well-rounded professors within chemistry to help students succeed in this program.
Kathleen
Prospective04/19/2025
I grew up in Ann Arbor, and the artistic culture and school spirit have always drawn me to the University. Michigan manages to be both a premier research institution and a D1 sports hub. This balance integrates both my love of physical activity and my passion for learning, creating an environment where both can truly thrive.
The fall 2020 acceptance rate for University of Michigan-Ann Arbor is 28%. That means, out of _____ applications received in 2020, _____ students were offered admission.
What should every freshman at your school know before they start?
I know you’re anxious to get out of here, but be warned: College is nothing like you’re expecting it to be. You won’t know anybody. The thousands of strange faces will intimidate you. It’ll seem like you’re drowning in the work. But eventually, you start to see familiar faces, develop a solid working routine and remember the excitement you’re feeling right now to go off and change the world. Also, college wasn’t really made for us introverts! However, once you get comfortable eating by yourself (everyone does), going to meetings and being friendly to strangers, you’ll be 10x more independent than your hall-mates who can’t use the bathroom without each other! There’s plenty of superficiality on campus, but being genuine will guarantee that you end up with the right people. Look forward to calling out the sexists, racists and elitists! Ultimately, you’ll realize that the college experience isn’t just about the rigorous courses, parties or interesting people; it’s about putting yourself out there, learning who you are and growing into your skin. It’ll take a while, so be patient and cherish the journey!
Here's your chance: Say anything about your college!
The main thing that I found unique about Michigan is that I felt that I could really call the campus "home" when I visited. In choosing colleges it is important that a high school senior follows his intuition and chooses the school that he believes is best fit. The campus is absolutely beautiful and there is such a diversity in the academics and campus life. Michigan truly is a great place to be.
While I love Michigan, there are times when I do complain about the school being too large. When you're fighting for a study spot in the library around finals, you definitely wonder about how you would not have nearly this much of a hard time if you attended a smaller university (and not one where you feel like one among 25,000). Also if you're not much of a go-getter, then you might have a hard time in the large classes because professors cannot simply worry about every individual students' progress or concerns. Again, this isn't too much of a problem in the upper level classes which are typically smaller. But for freshmen this is probably the most frequent complaint. I think students usually realize this prior to coming to this school.
Michigan is ranked one of the top universities in the world (not just the country), so most people are quite impressed when they hear I attend U of M. Wearing Michigan apparel or having the Michigan bumper sticker on my car always starts up conversation with alumni all over the world. When I studied abroad in Beijing, China, a random biker came up to me because I had on my Michigan sweatshirt and we ended up chatting about Ann Arbor and what brought us across the world! There is always a lot to say about our school which is great!
Ann Arbor is consistently ranked one of the top college sports town and there's no doubt about it. The city really revolves around the campus, but I find it that almost all Ann Arbor residents that I come across are in love with the university too. They love supporting the Wolverines so enjoy living here in Ann Arbor.
Academics can get pretty tough at UM if you dont stay on top on your stuff. A lot of the classes are in big lecture halls with over 200 students so it will be hard for the professor to get to know you on a personal level. But it is certainly possible to get on a personal level with the professors if you are willing. Also, competition here is nothing like I have seen before. Everyone is competing with each other for that good grade. I am majoring in Neuroscience in the Psychology and Molecular, Cellular and Developmental Biology department.
I have to say, the coolest thing I have come to witness only happened recently. Within the School of Art, it is required for every art student to attend weekly art lectures at the Michigan Theater. These weekly lectures are open to the public, and involve UofM paying immensely large amounts of money for established artists to come and give a lecture about whatever art they are working on, or have been thinking about. Two weeks ago, Theo Jensen came by and discussed his living, breathing beach mamals he has been creating. Its a great program.
What do you consider the worst thing about your school? Why?
Other than the five months of snow, most of the things about Michigan are good. Sometimes it feels like the administrators and university personnel (not the professors and teachers) do not consider the desires and needs of the students very much. It is easy to feel as if the university is being run like a business, without regard for what is best for the students. This is unfortunate because it often pits students and administrators against each other and the students usually lose the battle.
What are the most popular student activities/groups?
Because Michigan is so well-known for its excellent athletics, almost all athletes are adored on campus, especially football players. Athletic events probably draw in the largest attendance from the student body. With the country's largest college football stadium, it comes as no shock that you only have to check one place to find any Michigan student on Football Saturday--the Big House.
Greek life is also very big on the Michigan campus. It comprises about 17{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the student body, but 17{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of 25,000 equates to over 4,000 Greek Life members. The Greek Life community is one way to make the large school smaller. Most Greek Life members, but definitely not all, meet their closest friends through the Greek system. With the countless Greek Life activities, events, meetings, etc that can be found every day of the week, it is easy to see how the girls/guys of your pledge class easily grow to become your best friends all throughout your college years. While you will hear mixed opinions on the Greek Life, you really have to admit that there are a handful of benefits to it (academic, social, professional reasons). But yes, you can find those benefits from other organizations and groups on campus.
Just because you're not in Greek Life doesn't mean you don't have a number of options for spending your free time. The beauty of such a large school is that there are hundreds of other student organizations that sponsor events. Your options range anywhere from watching the all male acapella group perform to attending the very popular Indian American Student Association annual cultural show. Many students have a passion in the arts, so there are always events to satisfy that interest.
I met my closest friends through the Greek Life system, but also through my freshmen year dorm. A majority of the people who I keep in touch with today are people who lived in Markley Dorm with me. It is very easy to make friends when you practically run into the same faces everyday, whether in the student lounge, halls, or the dining cafeteria. I absolutely loved that dorming experience, although at times it meant that you had to try a little harder to concentrate on studying!
If I'm awake at 2am on a Tuesday, I'm either studying/doing homework OR leaving the bar. Tuesday is a very popular night (I don't know why exactly, because it's not like a lot of people don't have Wednesday classes) for the bars. I would say Tuesday and Thursday are very common bar nights. Surprisingly Fridays are not AS popular, probably because people are usually still recovering from Thursday nights. But if your schedule allows or you have the desire to, you can easily find people to go to the bars any night of the week.
Students usually go off campus because of shopping, jobs, sports, and other entertainment. Detroit and Canada are two popular destinations. There are many famous artists that come to perform in Detroit and a lot of students also enjoy going to support the Detroit Lions and Redwings. With Canada less than an hour away, a lot of students enjoy doing weekend trips to check out Windsor. Another common tradition in the winter semester is for groups of students to plan weekend ski trips.
It really is true that you can do something different every weekend at Michigan. There are always new options and there's so many students here that you won't have to worry about being the only one.
What is the stereotype of students at your school?
While there are specific stereotypes regarding certain schools and organizations within UM (i.e. engineering, RC, fraternities/sororities), the school itself is far too diverse to have an all encompassing stereotype...except maybe that we are smart and work a lot, and really like football.
What kind of person should not attend this school?
Perhaps my brother. It should mentioned, this is not specifically for the reason that having a blood relative in the same city is screaming for fantastical nighmares, however. My brother is introverted. Usually college is a rough enough transition, however his shutting out of the rest of society only had this painfully negative twist on his first year here. Now, he is doing great, however I think if there is any particular type of person that would have trouble here, it would be a particularly introverted person.
I actually think that Michigan could be for anyone. There are amazing programs for almost any concentration in the school, and for those who don't want a large school environment, there are many opportunities to take classes with smaller numbers. For a big school, we give off a small school feel with our tight community. I would only say that someone coming to Michigan has to be ready to put themselves out there and be friendly.
What is the stereotype of students at your school? Is this stereotype accurate?
The University of Michigan Ann Arbor is one of the largest universities in the nation; "stereotypes" are difficult to identify at such a diverse campus. However, it is rather clear that despite external "stereotypes," the students at Umich are definitely academically driven. Michigan football is a big part of the university, though college athletes are clearly in the minority. Greek life is rich and there are many different frats and sororities.
There Greek life presence on campus is over-bearing especially during the first month of each year. Most if not all of the fraternities and sororities serve alcohol to minors, so I think all Greek life should stop.
All students must apply yearly for financial aid. This process starts with the FAFSA.
Though financial aid deadlines vary by school, it is a good idea to apply as soon as possible. For the upcoming school year, you can apply as early as October 1 for the FAFSA. Additional school aid will be dependent on the FAFSA results.
64% of students attending University of Michigan-Ann Arbor receive some sort of financial aid.
15% were awarded federal grants.28%received federal loans. Many students do also need to apply for additional private student loans.
