From Presidents of the United States and Nobel Prize laureates to founders of major corporations and international political and business leaders, the University of Michigan has long been recognised as a prestigious institution for nurturing talent. As one of America's top public research universities, the University of Michigan is comparable to Ivy League schools in terms of academic strength and alumni influence, often referred to as a “Public Ivy.” This article, presented by Grove Education, delves into the University of Michigan's acceptance rate and QS World Ranking, offering a comprehensive understanding of this leading American university.
Introduction to the University of Michigan
Founded in 1817, the University of Michigan is one of the oldest and largest public research universities in the United States. Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the campus is renowned for its vibrant academic atmosphere and diverse learning environment. The University of Michigan ranks highly in the QS World Rankings due to its strong emphasis on both education and innovation, offering over 280 degree programs [1]. It also leads several globally impactful research initiatives and centres, including the Mcity self-driving car and smart transportation research centre [2], Michigan Medicine, one of the leading healthcare facilities in the United States [3], and the Life Sciences Institute (LSI), which focuses on innovative research in biology and clinical applications [4].
Additionally, the University of Michigan is known for its extensive alumni network, with graduates spanning over 180 countries. Notable alumni include the 38th President of the United States, Gerald R. Ford [5], Google co-founder Larry Page [6], Thomas Knoll, a primary inventor of Photoshop [7], and award-winning actor James Earl Jones, who has received an Oscar, Tony, and Emmy [8]. These accomplishments reflect not only the university’s academic excellence but also its influence across various fields including politics, technology, arts, and social innovation.
Source: University of Michigan
QS World Ranking and Notable Disciplines at the University of Michigan
The University of Michigan's global ranking continues to attract attention in the higher education sector. According to the latest figures, it ranks 45th in the QS World Rankings for 2026 [9]. Additionally, it is ranked 23rd in the 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings [10] and has frequently been ranked 3rd among public universities in the U.S. News rankings [11], showcasing its outstanding teaching, research, and internationalisation. In specific disciplines, the University of Michigan excels with several subjects ranked highly, such as Sociology (10th) [12], Pharmacy and Pharmacology (15th) [13], Medicine (19th) [14], Mathematics (26th) [15], and Accounting and Finance (31st) [16], highlighting its interdisciplinary approach and balanced education across arts and sciences.
Admissions and Acceptance Rate at the University of Michigan
According to the latest statistics released by the University of Michigan, a total of 109,112 applications were submitted for the autumn intake in 2025, with 17,915 students being admitted. Although the university has not provided an exact acceptance rate, calculations suggest an overall acceptance rate of approximately 16.4%. The number of applicants has been steadily increasing in recent years, with about 88,000 applicants in 2023, 98,000 in 2024, and exceeding 100,000 in 2025, marking a record high. As admission quotas have not significantly increased, the acceptance rate at the University of Michigan continues to decline, reflecting the fierce competition for places and the university’s growing international reputation, which attracts numerous outstanding students [17].
Source: University of Michigan
Application Requirements for the University of Michigan
In recent years, as application numbers have soared, the acceptance rate at the University of Michigan has reached historic lows. The university adopts a holistic review process [18], placing emphasis not only on GPA, standardised test scores, and subject performance but also on leadership qualities, social engagement, extracurricular activities, and personal statements. To enhance their chances of admission, applicants should not only excel academically but also demonstrate diverse characteristics and personal uniqueness. Below are the key application points for the University of Michigan [19]:
- Submit the application through the Common App platform, with an application fee of USD $75 (fee waivers available for qualified applicants)
- Provide high school transcripts; international students must submit additional relevant documents
- A school report (School Report) submitted by a high school teacher via the Common App
- Letters of recommendation from subject teachers (e.g., English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies)
- Optional submission of standardised test scores (SAT or ACT)
- Submit English proficiency test scores (TOEFL/IELTS/MET, etc.)
- If applicable, provide official college transcripts for dual enrolment courses taken in high school
Further Reading：What is the Common App? A Guide to Using the Common App for Applying to U.S. Universities
English Proficiency Requirements
International students or non-native English speakers must submit valid English proficiency scores upon application, as outlined below [20]:
| Item | Standard | Sectional Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 100 | Minimum 23 in Listening and Reading; 21 in Speaking and Writing |
| TOEFL Essentials | 10 | Minimum 10 in each section |
| IELTS | 7 | Minimum 6.5 in each section |
| ECPE（Examination for the Certificate of Proficiency in English） | Pass | Minimum C grade in each section |
| CAE（C1 Advanced） | Total score of 185 | No section below 180 (CEFR C1) |
| CPE（C2 Proficiency） | Total score of 185 | No section below 180 (CEFR C1) |
| PTE Academic | 68 | Average score across sections |
| MET（Michigan English Test） | 64 | Minimum 59 in each section |
It is noteworthy that applicants may be exempted from submitting English proficiency tests if they meet any of the following conditions:
- Achieve a score of 650 or above on the SAT (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing), or 600 or above on the old SAT Critical Reading
- Attain a Reading and English score of 27 or above on the ACT
- Completed four years of schooling in a country where English is the official or primary language within the last four years, meeting the above score criteria. For more details, please refer to the school’s testing and visa requirements.
Further Reading： What’s in the SAT? An Overview of Exam Content, Full Score, and Preparation Strategies
Application Deadlines
Students should be mindful of application deadlines. The early decision (ED) and early action (EA) deadlines are 1 November each year, while the regular decision (RD) deadline is 1 February of the following year [19].
Source: University of Michigan
Applying to Top American Universities with GROVE Education
The University of Michigan is a leading institution in the United States, with a low acceptance rate and intense competition. Applicants should be well-prepared. By analysing the University of Michigan's QS World Ranking, subject performance, and notable alumni achievements, students can gain a comprehensive understanding of this top university. If you wish to apply to this internationally renowned institution, feel free to contact Grove Education. Our professional team will tailor application materials and interview preparation, as well as devise the most suitable academic strategies to help you embark on your study abroad journey successfully.
References：
1. University of Michigan - Academics & Majors
2. Mcity - Mcity Test Facility
3. Michigan Medicine - Michigan Medicine
4. University of Michigan - Life Sciences Institute
5. Alumni Association of the University of Michigan - Gerald R. Ford
6. Alumni Association of the University of Michigan - Larry Page
7. Alumni Association of the University of Michigan - Thomas Knoll
8. Alumni Association of the University of Michigan - James Earl Jones
9. QS Top Universities - University of Michigan–Ann Arbor
10. Times Higher Education - University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
11. University of Michigan Record - U-M earns high rankings from U.S. News & World Report
12. QS Top Universities - Sociology - University Subject Rankings
13. QS Top Universities - Pharmacy & Pharmacology - University Subject Rankings
14. QS Top Universities - Medicine - University Subject Rankings
15. QS Top Universities - Mathematics - University Subject Rankings
16. QS Top Universities - Accounting & Finance - University Subject Rankings
17. University of Michigan - First-Year Student Profile 2025
18. University of Michigan Admissions - An Explanation of U-M’s Holistic Review Process
19. University of Michigan Admissions - Requirements & Deadlines
20. University of Michigan Admissions - International Applicants: Exams & Visas