What are the admission standards for University of Michigan?

Hey everyone, UMich is one of my top choices and I'm trying to figure out how competitive my application should be. Does anyone know what kind of admission standards they have, like average GPA, extracurricular involvement, etc? Thanks in advance!

Hello! University of Michigan is a great school, and I'm glad you're interested in applying. It's essential to keep in mind that they consider various factors in the admissions process, but I can provide you with some averages and general information to help you gauge your competitiveness.

For the Class of 2027, the middle 50% of accepted students for the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor had GPAs between 3.8-4.0 when looking at weighted GPAs. So, if you're aiming to be a competitive applicant, it's crucial to maintain a strong GPA in the context of a rigorous course load. They will value applicants who challenge themselves with honors, AP, or International Baccalaureate (IB) classes.

As for test scores, the middle 50% of accepted students had SAT scores between 1350-1530 and ACT scores between 31-34. While test scores are just one factor considered in the application, it's still worth aiming for scores within this range to improve your chances.

Regarding extracurricular involvement, colleges like UMich prefer students who are deeply involved in a few activities rather than just participating in numerous ones. Focus on developing a passion or area of expertise, also known as a "spike." They value diverse interests and accomplishments, so don't be afraid to branch out from the typical clubs or activities.

Keep in mind that UMich takes a holistic approach to admissions, meaning they don't admit students based solely on stats. Instead, they will consider the context of your achievements, taking into account your essays, letters of recommendation, and the unique circumstances that have shaped your experiences. Therefore, please remember to invest ample time and effort in crafting a compelling essay that showcases your personality and growth.

To summarize, a competitive application for UMich generally involves a strong GPA and course rigor, test scores within the mentioned ranges, deep involvement in a few extracurricular activities, and a compelling personal narrative. However, the context of your experiences plays a significant role in the admissions process, so highlight your distinctions while emphasizing your strengths. Good luck!